Are you considering a career as a school counselor in Utah? If so, you're likely to have several questions about the qualifications and requirements needed to get started. In this blog, we address the most frequently asked questions about becoming a school counselor in Utah, providing you with key insights and essential information.
1. Do I need to have a master’s degree in school counseling to become a practicing school counselor in Utah?
Yes, there is no alternate pathway to becoming a school counselor in Utah. Applicants must have a minimum of a master’s degree or higher in school counseling and meet the requirements outlined under the School Counseling Licensing Requirements tab. Related master’s degrees (i.e., Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), etc.) do not fulfill the requirements needed to be licensed as a school counselor in Utah.
2. Can a Utah State Board of Education School Counseling Program Specialist verify that an out-of-state (online) program meets accreditation criteria?
No, it is the responsibility of the applicant to verify that the school counseling master’s program is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Education Program (CACREP) or meets the Board-approved Standards for Utah School Counselor Education Programs.
3. Is an undergraduate degree in education (example, teaching) required in order to apply for a school counseling master’s degree program?
Applicants should work with the graduate department of the program of interest directly to determine admission requirements. In most circumstances, an undergraduate degree in education is not required.
4. Is a Professional Educator License in Utah required to obtain a license in school counseling?
All educators in Utah practice under a Professional Educator License. To receive a Professional Educator License for school counseling, applicants must meet the requirements outlined under the School Counseling Licensing Requirements tab.
5. How can I earn Professional Learning Points to renew an expired school counseling license that is relative to my profession?
There are many ways to earn Professional Learning Points when renewing an expired school counseling license. Some examples of professional learning opportunities, offered by the Utah State Board of Education, that support the role of the school counselor are:
- Trauma Sensitive Schools Professional Development
- Safe and Healthy Schools Events and Trainings
- College and Career Readiness (CCR) Certificate Program
For more information, please follow this link.
