School counselors help students develop academic and social skills and succeed in school. Career counselors assist people with the process of making career decisions by helping them develop skills or choose a career or educational program.

School counselors work in public and private schools. Career counselors work in colleges, government agencies, career centers, and private practices. Both types of counselors generally work full time.

Most school counselors have a master's degree in school counseling or a related field and have a state-issued credential. Some employers prefer that career counselors have a master's degree. Career counselors who work in private practices may also need a license.

The median annual wage for school and career counselors was $53,660 in May 2015.

Employment of school and career counselors is projected to grow 8 percent from 2014 to 2024, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Increasing school enrollments should lead to employment growth of school and career counselors.

Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for school and career counselors.

Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of school and career counselors with similar occupations.

Learn more about school and career counselors by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.