Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors
Educational, guidance, and career counselors advise students on academic planning, personal development, and career decisions. They work in schools, colleges, and universities, helping students select courses, explore career options, and navigate educational pathways. Counselors also assist with social and behavioral concerns that affect learning.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves one-on-one meetings with students to discuss academic progress and career interests. Counselors review transcripts, administer assessments, and maintain student records. They may lead group workshops on college applications or job search skills. Administrative tasks include documenting student interactions, coordinating with teachers and parents, and updating career resources. Some time is spent researching educational programs and employment trends.
Who this work suits
Holland code SCE. Social work is helping, teaching and working closely with people. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely enjoy working directly with people and helping them solve problems—a social interest. You're organized, detail-oriented, and comfortable with systems and procedures—a conventional interest. You do well when supporting others' growth through structured guidance and clear information.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a bachelor’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Openings right now
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Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $63,910 | $86,500 | $119,790 | 45,140 |
| Alaska | $63,290 | $82,900 | $97,820 | 540 |
| Washington | $65,470 | $82,670 | $104,690 | 6,610 |
| District of Columbia | $61,710 | $80,470 | $103,030 | 1,690 |
| Massachusetts | $65,810 | $79,930 | $100,580 | 11,460 |
| New Jersey | $64,160 | $77,910 | $98,490 | 8,190 |
| New Mexico | $54,110 | $77,880 | $87,190 | 1,780 |
| Maryland | $61,410 | $75,820 | $97,940 | 6,600 |
| Rhode Island | $58,710 | $75,000 | $90,080 | 1,340 |
| Delaware | $59,700 | $74,070 | $88,900 | 1,700 |
| Connecticut | $56,820 | $73,910 | $95,940 | 3,370 |
| New York | $57,550 | $71,610 | $93,540 | 23,380 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified School Career Development Advisor (CSCDA) — National Career Development Association
- Certified Career Counselor Educator (CCCE) — National Career Development Association
- Global Career Development Facilitator (GCDF) — Center for Credentialing & Education, Inc.
- National Social Security Advisor (NSSA) — National Social Security Advisor
- Certified Clinical Supervisor of Career Counseling (CCSCC) — National Career Development Association
- National Certified School Counselor (NCSC) — National Board for Certified Counselors
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
and 4 more
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 21-1012.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.