How to Become a School Counselor in Maryland for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

School counselors in Maryland play a vital role in supporting students’ academic growth, career planning, and personal well-being across diverse school settings. They work closely with teachers, families, and administrators to create safe, inclusive, and goal-oriented learning environments.

In Maryland, counselors address challenges such as college readiness, social-emotional development, and mental health awareness, reflecting the state’s commitment to comprehensive student support.

The role offers opportunities to make a lasting impact while enjoying strong demand in the education sector. In this guide, we outline the steps to become a school counselor in Maryland, including education, certification, and career outlook.

Key Things to Know About Becoming a School Counselor in Maryland

Complete a master’s degree in school counseling from an accredited program, as Maryland requires this for certification.
Pass the Praxis School Guidance and Counseling exam to meet Maryland State Department of Education licensure standards.
Gain supervised internship experience—typically 600 hours—to develop practical skills before applying for state certification.

What degree do I need to become a school counselor in Maryland?
Are there school counseling specializations in Maryland?
How long does it take to complete a school counseling degree in Maryland?
What certification is required to work as a school counselor in Maryland?
Can I transfer my Maryland school counseling license between states?
How often do Maryland school counselors need to renew their credentials?
What are the alternative pathways to become a school counselor in Maryland?
What is the average salary of school counselors in Maryland?
What is the job outlook for school counselors in Maryland?
What are the career advancement opportunities for school counselors in Maryland?
What challenges do school counselors face in Maryland?
Other Things You Should Know About Being a School Counselor in Maryland

What degree do I need to become a school counselor in Maryland?

Meeting the educational standards to become a school counselor in Maryland involves completing a focused graduate degree path that ensures both academic rigor and practical experience. These pathways reflect the state’s commitment to preparing counselors capable of addressing diverse student needs effectively.

Key degree options include:

Master’s Degree in School Counseling (with NBCC Certification and Experience): Requires a master’s degree from an accredited institution, a valid National Board of Certified Counselors certificate, and two years of satisfactory teaching or counseling experience in a school setting.
Master’s Degree from a Maryland-Approved Program (with Practicum): Entails completing a Maryland state-approved master’s program that includes at least 500 hours of supervised practicum in school counseling.
Master’s Degree from a CACREP-Accredited Program: Involves earning a degree from a program accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs, ensuring nationally recognized standards.
Master’s Degree Leading to Out-of-State Certification (with Practicum or Experience): Requires a master’s degree from a program leading to certification in another state, plus either two years of relevant experience or 500 practicum hours.
Master’s Degree with Valid Professional License from Another State: Calls for a master’s degree and a valid professional school counseling license from another state, along with at least 27 months of satisfactory counseling performance.

Each pathway mandates completion of special education coursework, emphasizing the comprehensive training expected of candidates. Those exploring the master’s degree in school counseling in Maryland will find these requirements align with broader counseling psychology career requirements, helping ensure well-rounded preparation for the profession.

Are there school counseling specializations in Maryland?

Maryland’s school counseling specializations offer focused training that aligns with the evolving needs of diverse student populations and educational systems. These options provide clear paths for professionals seeking to deepen their expertise or expand their roles within schools and beyond.

K–12 School Counseling: Prepares counselors to support students across all grade levels, emphasizing academic, career, and social-emotional development, and leads to Maryland certification as professional school counselors.
Dual School Counseling and Professional Counseling Licensure: Enables candidates to meet requirements for both school counselor certification and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor credentialing, offering flexibility to work in clinical or school settings.
Leadership and Program Development: Focuses on building skills in school-wide program design, leadership, consultation, and advocacy to influence systemic improvements within educational environments.
Diversity and Urban Education: Equips counselors to serve economically and culturally diverse urban student populations, prioritizing equity and the reduction of achievement gaps.
Prevention and Mental Health Promotion: Emphasizes evidence-based interventions and strategies to address mental health needs, reflecting the growing demand for such services in K–12 schools.
Social Justice and Advocacy: Trains counselors to champion social justice causes, ensuring fair educational opportunities for marginalized groups.

Those exploring Maryland school counselor degree tracks should consider how these specializations align with their career goals and the unique demands of the communities they aim to serve. For more insight into the profession and its pathways, see what does a counselor do.

How long does it take to complete a school counseling degree in Maryland?

Completing a school counseling master’s degree in Maryland generally takes two to three years for full-time students. Programs usually require 51 to 60 graduate credits, incorporating essential field experiences like practicum and internship placements.

Part-time students often extend their studies to three years or more depending on course load and scheduling flexibility. The state’s emphasis on comprehensive training ensures graduates are well-prepared but may lengthen the timeline compared to some other regions.

Certain Maryland-specific factors can influence how long it takes to finish the program:

Field Experience Requirements: A minimum of 700 hours of supervised school-based practicum and internship is mandated, which demands significant time commitment alongside coursework.
Credit Hour Expectations: Maryland’s requirement of 51–60 graduate credits is higher than in some states, potentially extending completion time, especially for part-time learners.
State Certification and Licensing: After graduation, applying for certification through the Maryland State Department of Education involves additional weeks or months depending on processing and documentation.

Additional circumstances may affect the overall duration:

Full-Time vs. Part-Time Study: Full-time enrollment accelerates completion to about two years, while part-time students typically take up to three years.
Out-of-State Applicants: Those transferring from other states might need extra coursework or field placements to meet Maryland’s standards, adding months to their timeline.
Program Delivery Format: Online and hybrid programs offer scheduling flexibility, enabling some students to pace their studies according to personal and professional demands.

The chart below shows the trend in school counseling program enrollment through the years:

What certification is required to work as a school counselor in Maryland?

In Maryland, the essential credential to practice as a school counselor is the Professional Certificate for School Counselor, issued by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE). This certification ensures that counselors not only meet state standards but also uphold the ethical and professional responsibilities required in K–12 public schools. Obtaining this certificate involves several key steps beyond completing your graduate degree.

Here is a concise overview of the certification process:

Pass the Required Examination: Candidates must successfully complete the Praxis II: Professional School Counselor exam, which evaluates the knowledge and skills critical for effective school counseling.
Background Check and Fingerprinting: A thorough state-issued criminal background check is mandatory, safeguarding student welfare and complying with Maryland’s legal requirements.
Supervised Practical Experience: Completion of a practicum or internship with direct service hours under supervision is required to demonstrate readiness for real-world counseling challenges.
Application Submission: After meeting all prerequisites, candidates apply through the MSDE’s online portal, providing transcripts, test results, supervised experience proof, and background clearance.
Certification Renewal: Maintaining this credential requires periodic renewal, typically every five years, involving professional development to stay current with evolving best practices.

Understanding these requirements also highlights how the role of school counselors extends beyond compliance, playing a vital part in motivating students to pursue higher education—an impact illustrated in the following image.

school counselors help students attend college

Can I transfer my Maryland school counseling license between states?

Maryland does not participate in automatic or nationwide reciprocity agreements for school counseling licenses. This means you cannot simply transfer your Maryland license to another state and begin practicing without fulfilling additional requirements. Instead, most states, including Maryland, rely on a process called “licensure by endorsement” or “certification by reciprocity.” This approach allows counselors to apply for certification elsewhere based on their education and experience but often demands meeting state-specific criteria first.

When transferring a Maryland school counseling license to another state, you will generally need to:

Evaluate the new state’s certification requirements, which may include specific coursework, exams, or experience.
Submit official transcripts and proof of your Maryland certification.
Verify your recent school counseling experience; for example, Maryland requires at least 27 months of full-time satisfactory experience for incoming out-of-state applicants.
Complete any required state-specific coursework, such as special education or ethics.
Pass required examinations, which might include state jurisprudence or Praxis II tests.
Undergo a criminal background check.
Submit an application for certification by endorsement to the new state’s education department.
Potentially obtain a provisional license while completing outstanding requirements.

Licensure transfer for school counselors can be challenging, as each state’s standards, testing, coursework, and documentation requirements vary widely, and the absence of a national compact means no uniform path exists.

A Maryland school counselor I spoke with found this out firsthand after moving to a neighboring state, where she had to gather extensive paperwork, complete additional coursework, and pass a different exam. While the months-long process was demanding, she valued the thoroughness, noting it deepened her understanding of local laws and student needs—an experience that shows how the endorsement process, though not automatic, can foster professional growth when approached with patience and openness.

How often do Maryland school counselors need to renew their credentials?

Maryland school counselors are required to renew their professional credentials every five years. This renewal cycle ensures that counselors remain current with best practices and maintain the skills necessary to support student mental health and well-being effectively.

Renewal Frequency: Certificates must be renewed every five years from the initial date of issuance.
Continuing Education: Six professional development credits are required, including at least one credit focused on mental health intervention or crisis referral.
Application Process: Renewal applications must be submitted online via the Maryland Department of Education certification portal, with supporting documentation uploaded.
Proof of Employment: Applicants must verify current employment as a school counselor in a Maryland public or approved private school.
Renewal Fee: A fee is required for renewal; current amounts are available on the MSDE certification website.
Background Check: Generally not required unless there is a break in service or change in employment setting.
Timing: It is wise to begin the renewal process several months before expiration to allow for processing time.

What are the alternative pathways to become a school counselor in Maryland?

Maryland offers several alternative pathways for those seeking school counselor certification without teaching experience, especially career-changers and professionals from other fields. These routes provide flexibility while ensuring candidates meet key standards like supervised fieldwork and graduate coursework.

CACREP-Accredited Master’s Programs: Designed for individuals without education backgrounds, these programs include extensive supervised fieldwork and align with state requirements.
Provisional or Conditional Certification: Allows candidates to work in schools while completing coursework and practicum hours, offering practical experience alongside study.
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate Programs: Suitable for those with degrees in other fields, these programs focus on certification requirements including special education coursework.
National Certified Counselor Pathway: Requires a master’s degree, NBCC certification, special education credits, and school-based experience.
Out-of-State Certification Transfer: Maryland recognizes valid licenses from other states with sufficient experience and academic credentials.

Each pathway emphasizes the importance of 500+ hours of supervised school counseling fieldwork and special education coursework. For detailed information on counseling degree requirements, consider exploring counseling degree requirements. Moreover, the chart below shows the number of school counseling programs in the US through the years:

What is the average salary of school counselors in Maryland?

The average salary for school counselors in Maryland hovers around $165,423 annually, which is slightly above the national median for this profession. This modest edge reflects the state’s commitment to education and the varying economic conditions across its regions.

Factors Affecting School Counselor Salary in Maryland:

Geographic Region: Salaries tend to be higher in urban centers like Baltimore due to increased living costs and better-funded districts.
Experience and Seniority: Seasoned counselors with years of service often earn notably more, benefiting from incremental raises and leadership roles.
Education and Credentials: Advanced degrees and certifications open doors to higher pay and specialized positions.
School District Budget and Funding: Wealthier districts can offer competitive compensation packages, influencing salary scales.
Job Title and Responsibilities: Counselors in specialized or high-need roles may receive additional stipends or bonuses.

When I spoke with a school counselor from Maryland who graduated from a local public school, he shared that starting salaries were modest but steadily improved with experience. “It wasn’t just about the paycheck—it was about the support I received to grow professionally,” he reflected. Over time, the combination of advanced training and moving into a lead counselor role brought financial stability that made continuing in the field worthwhile.

He noted, “Knowing the salary ranges helped me plan my career path carefully, and the benefits tied to certain districts really made a difference in my quality of life.” This personal insight highlights how Maryland’s salary landscape, while varied, offers real opportunities for dedicated school counselors.

What is the job outlook for school counselors in Maryland?

The school counselor job growth in Maryland is notably strong, with employment expected to rise by 15.5% from 2022 to 2032, significantly outpacing the national average of about 4% for similar roles. This robust increase reflects the state’s commitment to addressing student needs through enhanced counseling services.

Enrollment Growth: Maryland’s consistent or growing K-12 student population necessitates more school counselors to maintain appropriate student-to-counselor ratios and ensure effective support.
Rising Mental Health Needs: Increasing attention to student mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression encourages school districts to expand counseling staff and resources.
State Education Initiatives: Comprehensive reforms and whole-child approaches in Maryland emphasize the importance of qualified counselors in fostering student success beyond academics.
Competitive Salaries: With a median salary of $165,423, Maryland offers compensation above the national average, helping attract and retain skilled counselors in the education system.
Above-Average Job Growth: The Maryland school counselor employment outlook is distinguished by a dynamic job market, with roughly 6,210 counselors currently employed and steady job openings anticipated.

For those exploring counseling careers, Maryland’s environment suggests promising opportunities supported by policy and community needs. Those interested in pursuing this path might find it useful to consider programs recognized for quality and affordability, such as the most affordable CACREP accredited counseling online programs, which can provide essential credentials to enter this expanding field.

Most students have access to school counselor

What are the career advancement opportunities for school counselors in Maryland?

Career advancement for school counselors in Maryland is shaped by a combination of experience, leadership, and ongoing education. Counselors can pursue various specialized roles that extend their impact beyond traditional counseling duties.

Lead or Head School Counselor: Requires several years of experience and leadership skills to oversee counseling teams within schools or districts.
Coordinator of Career Counseling: Involves managing statewide or district initiatives, demanding program development expertise and extensive counseling experience.
District or Central Office Administrator: These leadership roles require advanced degrees, certification, and significant administrative experience to manage counseling programs district-wide.
Specialist in College and Career Readiness: Focuses on postsecondary preparation, needing specialized training and collaboration with workforce partners.
Professional Development Leader or Trainer: Experienced counselors lead training efforts, supported by active involvement in professional associations.
State-Level Policy Advisor or Program Director: Demands advanced degrees and demonstrated impact to influence statewide counseling policies.
University Faculty or Counselor Educator: Academic roles for counselors with advanced degrees, focusing on teaching and research in counselor education.

Leadership opportunities for Maryland school counselors often arise through participation in professional organizations and continued education, which are essential for advancement. For those considering long-term growth, exploring the salary with a counseling degree can provide insight into the financial benefits accompanying these paths.

What challenges do school counselors face in Maryland?

School counselors in Maryland frequently encounter high caseloads, strict administrative requirements, and the need to address diverse student mental health issues simultaneously. Balancing comprehensive student support with evolving school policies and integrating emerging digital tools has emerged as a persistent challenge. Moreover, effectively managing time to provide individualized counseling while keeping abreast of continual professional development can require significant strategic planning. For guidance on expediting career transitions and educational advancements, consider the fastest way to become a counselor in Maryland.

What do school counselors in Maryland say about their career?

Completing my school counseling program at Towson University truly prepared me for the realities of working in Maryland’s diverse educational settings. Starting my career at a local school here allowed me to grow professionally while supporting students navigating both academic and personal challenges. The blend of urban and suburban communities in Maryland offers unique opportunities to make a real difference in children’s lives. I find it incredibly rewarding to contribute to the well-being and success of young people in my state. The job stability and ongoing professional development options keep me motivated every day. Nyx
Reflecting on my journey, finishing my counseling degree at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County gave me a strong foundation tailored to Maryland’s educational system. Beginning my work in a local school introduced me to the rich cultural diversity and specific challenges students face here, from resource disparities to mental health needs. This experience fueled my passion for personal growth and community impact, as I see firsthand how counseling can transform lives. Maryland’s supportive network for school counselors makes it possible to continue advancing in my profession. Jaylen
Starting my school counseling career in Maryland was a decision shaped by the state’s unique environment and commitment to education. After graduating from Salisbury University, I embraced the opportunity to work in local schools where I could address both academic goals and social-emotional development. The professional growth opportunities here are significant, and the chance to engage with students from various backgrounds keeps my work fulfilling. I appreciate being part of a community that values innovation and inclusivity in education. Brent

Other Things You Should Know About Being a School Counselor in Maryland

Can Maryland school counselors work in private practice?

School counselors in Maryland can work in private practice, but doing so requires meeting specific credentialing and licensing criteria beyond their public school certification. While a school counselor certification allows professionals to work within Maryland public schools, private practice typically demands licensure as a professional counselor (LPC) or a related mental health license.

To obtain this, counselors must complete a master's degree in counseling or a related field, accumulate supervised clinical experience, and pass the National Counselor Examination or a state-approved equivalent. This licensure enables them to provide counseling services independently in private practice settings.

Additionally, private practitioners must adhere to state regulations regarding ethical standards, continuing education, and supervision requirements. Therefore, school counselors interested in private practice should pursue the LPC credential to ensure compliance and broaden their professional opportunities beyond the school environment.

Which majors are best for aspiring school counselors in Maryland?

For aspiring school counselors in Maryland, selecting the right undergraduate major is a crucial step toward meeting certification requirements and gaining relevant skills. While Maryland does not mandate a specific undergraduate degree for entry into graduate-level counseling programs, majors in psychology, education, social work, or human services are particularly beneficial. These fields provide foundational knowledge in human development, counseling theories, and educational frameworks essential for effective school counseling.

According to the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE), candidates must complete a master's degree in school counseling and fulfill supervised practicum hours to obtain certification. Undergraduate majors in psychology or education can ease the transition into these graduate programs by covering prerequisite coursework and fostering skills in communication and problem-solving.

Additionally, a 2022 report from the American School Counselor Association highlights that counselors with backgrounds in social sciences tend to be better equipped to address diverse student needs, a critical aspect in Maryland’s increasingly multicultural school environments. Choosing these majors thus supports both academic preparation and practical competence for future school counselors.

How much does a school counseling degree in Maryland cost?

The cost of a school counseling degree in Maryland varies depending on the institution and program format. On average, tuition ranges from $10,000 to $30,000 per year for public universities. Private institutions tend to charge higher rates, sometimes exceeding $40,000 annually. Additional fees may include registration, books, and practicum expenses, which can add several hundred to a few thousand dollars to the total cost.

Many programs offer master’s degrees in school counseling, typically requiring two years of full-time study. Part-time and online options may affect overall expenses. Prospective students should also consider financial aid opportunities such as scholarships, grants, and federal student loans to help offset costs.

It is important to compare specific Maryland universities and their counselor education programs to find the best fit. Costs will differ based on residency status, program length, and available resources. Planning ahead can ensure a clearer understanding of the investment needed to pursue a career as a school counselor in Maryland.

What do supervisors look for in a school counseling practicum student in Maryland?

Supervisors look for professionalism, strong communication skills, and a genuine commitment to student development in a school counseling practicum student in Maryland. They expect students to demonstrate ethical behavior and confidentiality while working with diverse student populations. Effective listening and the ability to build rapport with students and staff are essential. Supervisors also value adaptability and problem-solving skills, as practicum students must navigate various challenges in school settings.

Additionally, supervisors seek evidence of theoretical knowledge applied in practical situations. Students should show initiative in planning and implementing counseling interventions under supervision. Time management and reliability are crucial, as students must balance practicum responsibilities with academic requirements. Reflective practice and openness to feedback help students grow professionally. Overall, Maryland supervisors prioritize a student’s readiness to contribute positively to the school community while developing core counseling competencies.