Several schools offer graduate certificate
programs for aspiring school counselors in an online format. Those with a
master's degree in education or counseling may learn guidance and
advocacy skills for children in a school setting. Requirements to become
a school counselor differ from state to state, but most require
candidates to obtain state certification or licensing.
Online School Counselor Certification and Certificate Overview
School counseling certificate or endorsement programs are offered by many schools either entirely online or in a hybrid format. Typically, applicants must have a master's degree in education or counseling. Students enrolled in a certificate program develop skills involving the prevention of substance abuse, violence and bullying as well as career guidance and crisis intervention.Program Information and Requirements
A school counseling certificate program can usually be completed in less than a year. Many schools offering an online program have some on-campus course requirements, and students must often participate in an on-site internship at an affiliated or approved school. Online courses may be delivered through a combination of online reading material and real-time lectures. Students have the opportunity to interact with instructors and peers through online discussion boards, chat rooms and e-mail.Common School Counselor Courses
The standard curriculum of a school counseling certificate program trains students to advise, advocate and counsel troubled or challenged school-aged children. Some schools allow students to waive certain classes equivalent to those completed in a master's degree program.Fundamentals and Theories of the School Counselor Course
This course introduces students to the purpose, duties and responsibilities of the school counselor. Various counseling processes and methods are studied in-depth, as well as historical, theoretical and philosophical approaches to school counseling. The symbiotic relationship between school counselors and faculty of other student services is highlighted. Students are also presented with important licensing information necessary to become a professional school counselor.Consultation Practices in Schools Course
Students examine the singular ideologies, approaches and routines of counseling in an educational setting. Special attention is given to societal tendencies, ethnic considerations and pluralistic approaches inherent in school counseling. Legal and moral obligations, public service organizations and referral systems are also studied.Advanced Internship in School Counseling Course
Students participate in a supervised field experience in a private or public clinic, school or church. Skills are displayed and tested in real-world situations. The functional utilization and assimilation of the key concepts, fundamentals and procedures of school counseling is emphasized through a hands-on approach.Career Information
State requirements for school counselors may include completion of a master's degree, state certification, both teaching and counseling credentials, teaching experience, state licensure or a combination of these elements. Prospective school counselors may also be required to pass a comprehensive test, such as the Praxis Test of School Guidance and Counseling. Those interested in a career in school counseling should verify state regulations prior to enrollment in a program to ensure it meets the necessary requirements.The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported approximately 251,050 educational, vocational and school counselors were employed in May 2009. Average yearly salaries for these positions was $55,030. The BLS anticipated an increase of 14% for school counselor jobs between 2008-2018 (www.bls.gov).
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