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 North Dakota.

Academics: Have a master’s degree in education, counseling, or a related human service field.

Necessary Courses: (1) elementary counseling, (2) secondary counseling, (3) counseling internship, (4) counseling management, (5) theories, (6) assessment tactics, (7) group counseling, (8) career counseling, and assessment; (9) social and multicultural counseling, (10) ethics and law, (11) counseling tactics.

Experience Requirements: (1) Possess a current educator’s professional license, (2) Possess a school-based internship of at least 450 hours, which must consist of 150 hours at the elementary level and at least 150 hours at the secondary level.

Assessment: None

Is an Institutional Recommendation Needed?: Obtain a favorable letter of recommendation from the counselor’s state-sanctioned school counseling program advisor.

Licensure: K-12

Licensure Reciprocity: No

Criminal Background Investigation: Yes, FBI background check and fingerprinting.

North Dakota Department of Education