Counselor (Career)

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Work Tasks

CAREER COUNSELORS help clients or students evaluate their abilities, interests, talents, and personality characteristics so that they can develop realistic academic and career goals. Career counselors also explore and evaluate the education, training, work history, and physical capabilities of their clients. They use interviews, counseling sessions, and tests to evaluate and advise clients and students. Career counselors assist clients in locating and applying for jobs. College career planning and placement counselors help students with career development and job-hunting techniques. Career counselors may follow up after placement to see if more help is needed.

Salary, Size & Growth

• $56,500 average per year ($27.25 per hour)
• A large occupation (246,900 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow moderately (1.4% per year)

Entry Requirements

Generally, CAREER COUNSELORS have a master's degree in career counseling or a related field. State licensing and certification requirements vary from state to state. Most states require that counselors in private practice have a license. All states require school counselors to hold state school counseling certification. The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) accredits graduate programs in career counseling. Counselors must pass the National Career Counselor Exam (NCCE).