How to Become a School Counselor in North Dakota for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Many aspiring school counselors in North Dakota face uncertainty about the necessary qualifications amid evolving educational standards. Recent data shows that North Dakota’s student-to-counselor ratio is approximately 400:1, exceeding the recommended 250:1, indicating a growing demand for qualified professionals. Pursuing a career as a school counselor here offers the opportunity to address critical student needs while benefiting from competitive salaries and state support.

This article, prepared by career planning experts, clarifies the certification process, educational requirements, and licensure steps. It aims to guide readers through informed decision-making to successfully enter this vital profession in North Dakota.

Key Things to Know About Becoming a School Counselor in North Dakota

Earn a master’s degree in school counseling from an accredited program, as North Dakota requires this for licensure.
Complete supervised practicum and internship hours, typically totaling 600–700 hours, to gain hands-on experience.
Pass the Praxis School Counselor exam and apply for state licensure through the North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board.

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

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

Meeting the degree requirements for becoming a school counselor in North Dakota involves specific academic and practical components designed to prepare candidates thoroughly. These requirements reflect the state’s approach to ensuring qualified professionals support students effectively.

The degree requirements include the following key elements:

Master’s Degree in Counseling, Education, or a Related Human Service Field: Candidates must earn a master’s degree or higher from a state-approved school counseling program that includes the necessary coursework mandated by the state.
Required Graduate Coursework: The master’s program must cover core topics such as counseling theories, assessment techniques, group and career counseling, social and multicultural counseling, ethics, and counseling program management to meet the North Dakota school counselor degree requirements.
Supervised School Counseling Internship: A supervised internship with at least 450 contact hours is compulsory, with a balanced minimum of 150 hours at both elementary and secondary levels to ensure practical experience aligns with professional standards.

This framework underscores the importance of comprehensive preparation and aligns with the SC03 credential requirements. For further details on what requirements are needed to become a counselor, see the relevant guidance at what requirements are needed to become a counselor.

Are there school counseling specializations in North Dakota?

School counseling specializations in North Dakota reflect a nuanced approach to addressing diverse student needs within educational settings. These areas of focus equip counselors with targeted skills relevant to varying developmental and behavioral challenges.

K-12 School Counseling: Prepares counselors to support academic, career, personal, and social development across elementary, middle, and high school levels, emphasizing a holistic approach to student growth.
Clinical Mental Health Integration: Offers coursework enabling counselors to incorporate mental health strategies into school environments, addressing complex emotional and behavioral issues beyond traditional academic support.
Addiction and Substance Abuse Counseling: Provides specialized training in prevention and intervention related to substance use, complementing the core school counseling curriculum with focused support mechanisms.
Child and Adolescent Counseling: Focuses on developmental, trauma, and crisis intervention skills tailored to younger populations, enhancing counselors’ ability to respond to behavioral and emotional challenges.
School Counseling Graduate Certificate: Designed for those with existing counseling degrees, this certificate aligns with licensure requirements and supports readiness for both elementary and secondary school counseling roles.

Given the evolving demands in educational settings, these specializations support a comprehensive preparation for professionals pursuing K-12 school counseling programs in North Dakota. Prospective counselors should consider the scope of each specialization carefully, particularly as the career outlook for LPC indicates growing needs for mental health integration alongside traditional counseling roles.

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

Completing a master’s degree in school counseling in North Dakota typically requires around 60 graduate semester credits and takes about two years of full-time study. This includes comprehensive exams, a minimum of 100 practicum hours, and between 600 to 900 internship hours in a school setting. However, the timeline can extend for part-time students or those balancing work commitments, as the practicum and internship components are time-intensive.

Universities like North Dakota State University and the University of North Dakota offer structured programs that combine coursework with hands-on training to meet state credentialing requirements.

For candidates who already hold a related master’s degree, certificate programs provide an alternative path to certification, usually requiring 23 to 48 credit hours. These programs often take between two to four years to complete, depending on whether the student attends full-time or part-time. The certificate pathway includes a one-semester practicum of 150 hours and a two-semester internship totaling 450 to 600 hours, with options for both on-campus and online study to accommodate working professionals.

Credit Hour Requirements: Master’s programs generally require about 60 credits, while certificate programs vary between 23 and 48 credits based on prior education.
Internship and Practicum Hours: State mandates require at least 100 practicum hours and 600–900 internship hours, which can prolong completion time for part-time students.
Plan of Study Review: Annual reviews by the Department of Public Instruction ensure consistent progress, particularly for part-time students or those credentialing while working.
Credentialing Timeline: The official school counselor credential is granted after completing all educational and experiential requirements and aligns with five-year teaching license renewal cycles.

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

In North Dakota, school counselors must obtain the Professional School Counselor Credential issued by the state Education Standards and Practices Board (ESPB). This credential is separate from a teaching license and specifically targets counseling roles within K-12 schools. The certification process involves several required steps beyond completing a counseling degree, ensuring candidates meet state-specific standards.

Key steps in the certification process include:

Background Check: Candidates must pass a state and federal fingerprint-based criminal background check to protect student safety.
Application Submission: Applicants submit official transcripts and apply directly to the ESPB for the credential.
Practicum/Internship Verification: Completion of a supervised practicum or internship is required, with official documentation from the degree program.
Knowledge of State School Law: Counselors must demonstrate understanding of North Dakota school law through a state-approved course or exam, as the Praxis exam is not required.
Professional Competency Proof: Letters or forms from supervisors or professors attest to the applicant’s counseling skills and readiness.
Application Fee: A non-refundable fee supports the processing of the credential application.

The credential requires renewal every five years, including continuing education and a new background check, promoting ongoing professional standards in the field.

Can I transfer my North Dakota school counseling license between states?

North Dakota does not participate in formal reciprocity agreements for school counseling licenses. This means a license earned in North Dakota cannot be directly transferred to another state without meeting that state’s specific licensure requirements. Instead, counselors must apply for licensure by endorsement or credential evaluation in the state where they want to practice. This process can be complex due to North Dakota’s unique dual requirement: holding both a valid teaching license and a dedicated school counseling credential.

Counselors transferring their license typically encounter several key steps and challenges:

Submitting a new application with transcripts, proof of current licensure, and documentation of supervised experience.
Undergoing credential evaluation to ensure education, coursework, and internship hours meet the receiving state’s standards.
Passing any required state-specific exams, such as jurisprudence or content tests.
Completing a criminal background check, often including fingerprinting.
Potentially fulfilling additional coursework or internship hours if the new state’s requirements exceed North Dakota’s.
Possibly obtaining a provisional license to work while finishing state-mandated requirements.

The lack of direct reciprocity for school counseling licenses can create delays, extra costs, and administrative hurdles, making early communication with the target state’s licensing board essential. A North Dakota school counselor who transferred her license described the process as “a bit daunting,” citing varied exam requirements and the need to gather detailed documentation, but she valued how her state’s rigorous training helped her meet many states’ expectations without extra coursework.

While the additional steps demanded patience, they also deepened her understanding of the new state’s standards and strengthened her practice. The image below shows how many schools in the U.S. have school counselors, providing context for the profession’s reach nationwide.

92% of schools in the U.S. have a counselor.

How often do North Dakota school counselors need to renew their credentials?

In North Dakota, school counselors are generally required to renew their credentials every five years, coinciding with the renewal of the educator’s professional license. This cycle applies to most K-12 school counselors, although certain provisional or specialized licenses might have different renewal timelines.

Renewal Cycle: Credentials must be renewed every five years alongside the educator’s license, even for those with a lifetime educator’s license.
Application Submission: Counselors must submit a completed renewal application form to the North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board (ESPB) before their current license expires.
Continuing Education: Renewal requires documented continuing professional education, typically including at least 30 hours every two years for Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC), with specific hours in face-to-face learning and ethics.
Renewal Fee: A fee is required with the application; as of 2025, LPC renewal costs $150 biennially, while combined LPC and LPCC credentials require $225.
Employment Verification: Counselors must have been under contract for at least 30 days during the license period, or else additional education credits may be necessary.
Background Check: A new background check could be required after a break in service or at the board’s discretion.
Professional Intent Statement: LPC and LPCC holders must submit a statement outlining their practice scope and client demographics.
Renewal Notification: The ESPB notifies counselors at least two months in advance of expiration, using the last provided address.

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

North Dakota offers several alternative pathways for individuals pursuing school counseling careers, particularly those without a traditional background in education. These options enable career-changers to enter the field while meeting state standards through flexible routes.

Provisional or Conditional Licensure: Licensed teachers may work as counselors with an approved plan of study outlining required coursework, renewable annually for up to seven years.
Alternate Access License: Provides a one-year renewable credential for candidates who completed teacher education but need to pass Praxis exams and finish coursework.
Graduate Certificate Programs: Post-baccalaureate certificates or master’s programs, like those at the University of North Dakota, offer supervised practicum and internships for non-traditional candidates.
Relevant Work Experience: Licensed teachers with related experience can serve as counselors under a study plan while completing required graduate coursework.
Out-of-State Reciprocity: Licenses from other states are reviewed and may require additional coursework to meet North Dakota standards.

Key requirements include passing the Praxis II School Counselor Exam, completing graduate coursework in areas like educational psychology, and supervised fieldwork. Candidates should also be aware of criminal background check mandates. Understanding these alternative pathways helps those exploring counseling degree requirements and the North Dakota school counselor alternate access license navigate licensure effectively.

What challenges do school counselors face in North Dakota?

School counselors in North Dakota often contend with a high student-to-counselor ratio, which can limit individualized student support and increase professional stress. In addition, working across diverse educational environments and addressing a wide range of student needs—academic, emotional, and social—requires adaptive strategies and effective time management. These challenges necessitate ongoing professional development and resourceful problem-solving to maintain high standards of support. For guidance on preparing for these challenges, consider the fastest way to become a counselor in North Dakota.

What is the average salary of school counselors in North Dakota?

The median salary for school counselors in North Dakota is approximately $69,179, slightly below the national median which hovers near $75,000. This difference reflects regional economic factors but does not necessarily imply a lower quality of life or professional satisfaction in the state.

Geographic Location: Salaries tend to be higher in metropolitan or well-funded areas, reflecting local demand and cost-of-living differences.
Experience and Seniority: Counselors with more years in the profession generally earn higher salaries, benefiting from accumulated expertise and leadership roles.
Education Level: Advanced degrees can lead to better pay and promotion opportunities.
School District Funding: District budget priorities impact salary scales, with larger or wealthier districts offering more competitive compensation.
Specialization and Responsibilities: Taking on specialized roles or additional duties can result in stipends or salary increases.

When I spoke with a school counselor who graduated from a local North Dakota university, he reflected on the salary landscape candidly. He noted that while the pay might not match larger states, the lower cost of living and community support made his compensation package feel fair. “Starting out, the salary helped me manage student loans and daily expenses without constant worry,” he shared.

He also emphasized that gaining seniority and pursuing further credentials gradually improved his financial stability. For him, the combination of reasonable pay and quality of life outweighed the allure of higher salaries elsewhere, reinforcing the practical value of working as a counselor in North Dakota’s unique environment.

Local schools in the U.S. pay an average of $76,960 to school counselors.

What is the job outlook for school counselors in North Dakota?

The job outlook for school counselors in North Dakota is promising, with employment expected to grow by 6.9% from 2022 to 2032, surpassing the national average growth rate of 4%. This projected increase reflects a steady demand for qualified counselors in K-12 schools, influenced by several regional and educational factors.

Statewide Employment Growth: North Dakota anticipates a 6.9% rise in school counselor positions over the next decade, signaling expanding job opportunities in this field.
Student Enrollment Trends: While the overall population remains stable, certain districts see enrollment growth, creating localized demand for additional counseling staff to address student needs.
Mental Health and Behavioral Support: Increased awareness of student mental health challenges has intensified the need for counselors skilled in prevention and intervention strategies.
State Education Initiatives: Efforts to enhance college and career readiness, social-emotional learning, and academic support rely heavily on school counselors to deliver and coordinate these programs effectively.
Regional Differences: Employment and salary levels vary, with metro areas like Bismarck and Fargo offering the highest number of positions and mean salaries ranging from $64,403 to $73,280 as of 2023.
National Comparison: The North Dakota school counselor employment growth rate outpaces the national average, suggesting relatively favorable job prospects locally compared to other states.

For individuals considering this career path, exploring educational options such as the ranking of most affordable bachelors degrees in substance abuse counseling online can provide a strategic advantage in meeting the qualifications demanded by schools across North Dakota.

What are the career advancement opportunities for school counselors in North Dakota?

Career advancement for school counselors in North Dakota involves various specialized and leadership roles that allow professionals to expand their influence within educational settings. These opportunities typically require a combination of experience, further education, and sometimes additional certification.

Lead School Counselor/Department Chair: Experienced counselors may lead counseling departments, managing programs and staff, which demands proven leadership and ongoing professional development.
District School Counseling Coordinator: This role involves overseeing counseling services district-wide and often requires an advanced degree and skills in program evaluation.
Career Advisor: Transitioning to career advising focuses on job readiness programs and requires specific training and several years of work experience, including outside education.
School Administrator: Becoming a principal or assistant principal requires additional licensure and graduate coursework in educational administration.
Higher Education Counselor or Academic Advisor: This path often needs experience in postsecondary education planning and sometimes extra credentials.
Specialist in Behavioral Health or Student Support Services: Counselors may specialize in mental health support, requiring continuing education in behavioral health or social work.
Program Development or Policy Advisor: These roles focus on curriculum and policy at district or state levels, often needing advanced degrees and data analysis experience.
Requirements for Advancement: Most leadership roles require several years of counseling experience, continuing education, advanced credentials, and active professional involvement.

Given the projected growth in demand for school counselors, those interested might also explore the highest paying jobs with a counseling degree to understand related career options beyond traditional school settings.

What do school counselors in North Dakota say about their career?

Completing my school counseling program at Bismarck State College truly set the foundation for a fulfilling career. Starting work in a local school allowed me to see firsthand the positive impact we can have on students' lives, especially in a close-knit North Dakota community. The stability of the job and the opportunities for continuous professional development have kept me motivated to grow every day. I feel a deep sense of purpose knowing I contribute to the well-being and success of young people navigating their academic and personal challenges. Caitlyn
Reflecting on my journey, finishing my program at Minot State University helped me appreciate the unique challenges and rewards of counseling in a rural state like North Dakota. The combination of local culture and limited resources pushes us to be creative and resourceful, which has been both challenging and rewarding. Starting my career here has allowed me to build strong relationships with students and families, fostering a supportive environment where growth is possible. The role has profoundly shaped my understanding of community and resilience. Gabriella
North Dakota offers unique opportunities for school counselors to advance professionally while deeply impacting the community. After completing my program at Valley City State University, I found the transition into a local school setting smooth and inspiring. The chance to address diverse student needs and participate in ongoing training has helped me refine my skills and expand my career options. I feel proud to be part of a profession that blends personal passion with tangible support for youth development in this distinctive environment. Ethan

Other Things You Need to Know About Becoming a School Counselor in North Dakota

Can North Dakota school counselors work in private practice?

School counselors in North Dakota typically work within public or private educational institutions; however, they can pursue private practice under specific conditions. To practice privately, counselors must obtain the appropriate licensure beyond their school counseling credentials. In North Dakota, this generally means acquiring the Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) credential, which requires a master’s degree in counseling or a related field, supervised clinical experience, and passing a national counseling exam. The LPC license authorizes counselors to provide mental health services independently, including private practice.

While the school counselor certification focuses on educational settings and student guidance, it does not automatically entitle professionals to private practice. Therefore, school counselors interested in private practice should seek LPC licensure to meet state requirements for independent clinical work. This pathway ensures that counselors have met the necessary clinical training and ethical standards to offer private counseling services outside the school environment.

Which majors are best for aspiring school counselors in North Dakota?

For aspiring school counselors in North Dakota, selecting the right undergraduate major can significantly influence their career readiness and success. The most relevant majors typically include psychology, education, social work, and human services. These fields provide a strong foundation in understanding student development, mental health, and effective communication strategies, which are crucial for school counseling roles.

According to the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction, school counselors must be licensed, which requires a master’s degree in counseling or a related field, but a related bachelor’s degree helps build essential skills early on.

Psychology offers insights into behavioral patterns and emotional support, while education majors gain knowledge about curriculum and school systems, enhancing their ability to collaborate with teachers and administrators. Social work and human services focus on community resources and advocacy, preparing counselors to address diverse student needs.

Given North Dakota’s rural population, counselors often serve multiple schools or districts, making a broad understanding of social and educational dynamics critical. These majors align well with state licensing requirements and the practical demands of counseling roles in North Dakota schools.

How much does a school counseling degree in North Dakota cost?

The cost of a school counseling degree in North Dakota varies depending on the institution and program format. On average, tuition for a master’s degree in school counseling can range from $8,000 to $20,000 per year for in-state students. Public universities in North Dakota typically offer lower tuition rates for residents compared to private institutions.

Additional expenses may include fees for registration, textbooks, and practicum or internship placements. Some programs offer online or hybrid options, which might affect the overall cost. Financial aid, scholarships, and assistantships are often available to help offset expenses.

It is important for prospective students to research specific universities in North Dakota to understand their tuition structure and available funding opportunities. Comparing total program costs and potential financial support will help in making informed decisions about pursuing a school counseling degree in the state.

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

Supervisors look for professionalism, strong communication skills, and a genuine commitment to student well-being in a school counseling practicum student in North Dakota. They expect students to demonstrate ethical behavior and maintain confidentiality at all times. Reliability and punctuality are essential traits, as supervisors value students who take responsibility for their assignments and engage actively in their learning.

Practicum students should show the ability to build rapport with diverse student populations and collaborate effectively with school staff. Critical thinking and problem-solving skills are important, especially when addressing student challenges. Supervisors also seek students who are open to feedback and willing to reflect on their practice to improve continuously.

Additionally, knowledge of state counseling standards and a clear understanding of the school counseling role are crucial. Supervisors want students who apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios and demonstrate cultural competence in their interactions. Overall, a proactive, ethical, and empathetic approach defines a successful practicum student in North Dakota schools.

References:

American School Counselor Association. (n.d.). State/Territory Certification. ASCA
Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs. (2023). Results from a national survey of accredited programs. CACREP
Counseling Psychology. (n.d.). Best Counseling Schools in North Dakota. Counseling Psychology
North Dakota CMHC Licensure Guide. (2025). North Dakota CMHC Licensure Guide. Remnant Counselor Collective
North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board. (2025). School Counselor Licensure. NDESPB
School Counselor Certification Staff. (2025). North Dakota School Counselor Certification Reciprocity. SchoolCounselorCertification.com
South Dakota Department of Education. (n.d.). Certification: School Counselor. SD DoE
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025). Occupational Outlook Handbook: School and Career Counselors and Advisors. U.S. BLS
University of Mary Online. (2025). Master of Science in Counseling, School Counseling. UM Online
University of North Dakota. (2025). School Counseling Certificate. UND

American School Counselor Association. (n.d.). State/Territory Certification. ASCA
Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs. (2023). Results from a national survey of accredited programs. CACREP
Counseling Psychology. (n.d.). Best Counseling Schools in North Dakota. Counseling Psychology
North Dakota CMHC Licensure Guide. (2025). North Dakota CMHC Licensure Guide. Remnant Counselor Collective
North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board. (2025). School Counselor Licensure. NDESPB
School Counselor Certification Staff. (2025). North Dakota School Counselor Certification Reciprocity. SchoolCounselorCertification.com
South Dakota Department of Education. (n.d.). Certification: School Counselor. SD DoE
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025). Occupational Outlook Handbook: School and Career Counselors and Advisors. U.S. BLS
University of Mary Online. (2025). Master of Science in Counseling, School Counseling. UM Online
University of North Dakota. (2025). School Counseling Certificate. UND