Steps to Obtain Initial Alaska School Counselor Certification

The path to becoming a certified school counselor in Alaska is structured yet attainable. Whether you are a new graduate or transitioning from another state, understanding the certification requirements is essential. This guide will walk you through the steps to obtain your initial Alaska school counselor certification, valid for five years before renewal.

Step 1: Education Requirements

Applicants must meet the following educational criteria:

• Completion of a state-approved special services program in school counseling from institutions such as:
  • Grand Canyon University - M. Ed in School Counseling
  • New York University (NYU) - Master of Arts in Counseling and Guidance: School and Bilingual School Counseling
  • Butler University - Master of Science in School Counseling
  • Walden University - MS in School Counseling
  • University of Denver - Master of Arts in School Counseling
  • Campbellsville University - Online Master of Arts in Education in School Counseling
• Completion of a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited university
• Completion of a teaching certification program or alternative teaching certification program with endorsement in school counseling (for bachelor’s degree holders)
• Completion of a school psychology internship of 1200 hours with 600 hours in a school setting, or hold a master’s degree and a national school psychologist certification (for master’s degree holders)
• Completion of three semester hours of approved Alaskan studies and three semester hours of multicultural education/cross-cultural communication within five years prior to application

Applicants who haven't completed the Alaskan studies and multicultural education requirements can apply for a two-year initial certification. These courses must be completed within the two-year period to qualify for the five-year certificate.

Step 2: Organize Your Application Materials

Applicants must complete the Regular Special Services (Type-C) Application, including:

• Initial Special Services Certification Application
• Fingerprint Card for a criminal history report by the Alaska Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
• Official transcripts from each college or university attended
• Mandatory Training Form

Step 3: Know the Fees

The associated fees for processing the application are:

• Initial Certification Fee: $200
• Background Check Fee: $60
• Fingerprint Card Fee: $260

Payments can be made online via the DEED Online Payment Center or by including a cashier’s check or money order with your application materials. Personal checks are not accepted, and fees are non-refundable.

Step 4: Submit Your Application!

All required materials must be included in a single application packet and mailed to:

Department of Education & Early Development
Teacher Education & Certification
801 West 10th Street, STE 200
P.O. Box 110500
Juneau, AK 99811-0500

Scanned, faxed, or emailed applications will not be accepted.

Additional Assistance

If you have questions about your application, contact the Teacher Education & Certification office via email at tcwebmail@alaska.gov to consult a Certification Analyst.For more information, please follow this link.