In America, today’s school counselors do a lot more than their predecessors. It may be hard to tell from the outside looking in, but they help teachers and staff handle various issues, counsel parents, and sometimes play a crucial part in shaping education policy. They are a pivotal part of the student success equation, and they help schools create supportive and safe environments for students.

Want to become a school counselor in the United States, but want to know how? Don’t worry; the Edvocate has your back. Check out this guide that we created explaining how to become a school counselor in Wisconsin.

Academics: A master’s degree from a sanctioned school counseling and guidance program and the institutional endorsement.

Experience Requirements: (1) Admissibility for a WI license to teach in the elementary/secondary schools and 2 years of teaching experience at the elementary/secondary school levels; or (2) Completion of a sanctioned one-year full-time internship in school counseling; or (3) A minimum of 2 years of experience as a counselor in an assigned position of half time or more.

Assessment: None

Is an Institutional Recommendation Needed?: Yes, if you do not have the experience requirement completed at the time of hire.

Licensure: K –12

Licensure Reciprocity: No. In most cases, Wisconsin licenses are based on completion of a state-sanctioned program, not based on certification from another state. Candidates for a Wisconsin license must be licensable in the state where they completed their school counseling preparation program.

Criminal Background Investigation: Yes

Wisconsin Department of Education/school counseling