How to Become a School Counselor in Ohio for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Ohio faces a growing shortage of qualified school counselors, impacting student mental health and academic success. Currently, only 38% of Ohio public schools meet the recommended counselor-to-student ratio, highlighting an urgent need for more professionals in this field. So it's not surprising that pursuing a career as a school counselor in Ohio offers strong job security and competitive salaries, with demand projected to rise due to increased awareness of student well-being.

This article, prepared by career planning experts, explores certification requirements, educational pathways, and emerging trends in school counseling, providing a clear roadmap to help you navigate and succeed in this vital profession.

Key Things to Know About Becoming a School Counselor in Ohio

Earn a master’s degree in school counseling from an Ohio-approved program, aligning with the state’s evolving educational standards.
Complete a supervised internship of at least 600 hours to gain practical experience, crucial as Ohio emphasizes hands-on training for future counselors.
Pass the Ohio School Counselor Licensure Exam and apply for your license, preparing for increased demand with projected job growth of 8% through 2030.

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

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

Emerging trends in education suggest that the credentials required to become a school counselor in Ohio will continue evolving with a focus on practical experience and rigorous academic preparation. The following degrees represent the core educational foundation currently emphasized in the state.

Master’s Degree in School Counseling: Candidates must complete a state-approved master’s degree program in school counseling, designed to integrate advanced coursework with real-world applications. This program typically includes at least 600 clock hours of supervised internship within a K-12 school setting, ensuring hands-on experience.
State-Approved Internship Component: Integral to the degree, a supervised 600-hour internship in a school environment is mandatory for licensure in Ohio. This practical training bridges theoretical knowledge with the daily responsibilities school counselors face.
Professional Pupil Services License Eligibility: Graduates from these programs become eligible to obtain the Professional Pupil Services License specific to school counselors, valid for five years and covering Pre-K through 12th grade. This license is essential for employment within Ohio's public schools.
Ohio Assessment for Educators (OAE) #040 Exam: Upon completion of the degree and internship, passing the OAE #040 School Counselor exam with a minimum score of 220 is required. This assessment verifies the candidate’s readiness to meet professional standards.

For those exploring the fastest way to become a licensed counselor, the commitment to a master’s degree in school counseling and completion of a state approved school counselor preparation program in Ohio remain essential steps toward licensure and practice.

Are there school counseling specializations in Ohio?

Ohio’s school counseling specializations reflect a growing integration of mental health and leadership skills, preparing graduates for increasingly diverse roles in education and beyond. These pathways highlight the importance of comprehensive training tailored to the needs of modern K-12 students.

School Counseling (Pre-K–12) Specialization: Provides extensive training in child and adolescent development alongside counseling techniques, equipping counselors for all grade levels and eligibility for the Pupil Services license.
Dual Specialization in School Counseling and Clinical Mental Health Counseling: Combines school counseling with clinical mental health coursework and a 600-hour internship, enabling graduates to pursue both school counseling and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) credentials in Ohio.
Career Counseling and Academic Advising Focus: Integrates counseling strategies aimed at supporting career readiness and academic planning, addressing the evolving demands of diverse student populations.
Leadership and Advocacy Training: Emphasizes systemic change, advocacy, and leadership skills, preparing counselors to influence equity and student well-being at broader school and district levels.
Practicum and Internship Requirements: Mandates a minimum 100-hour practicum and 600-hour internship within K-12 settings, ensuring hands-on experience essential for state licensure and effective practice.

As the field advances, those exploring school counseling specializations in Ohio may find value in examining how to start as a counselor pathways that integrate these comprehensive skill sets, positioning graduates for versatile careers in both educational and clinical contexts.

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

Completing a master’s degree in school counseling in Ohio typically requires around 60 semester credit hours, which full-time students can finish in about two years. Part-time and online program options are increasingly common, allowing flexibility but often extending completion to three years or more. These programs universally include a 100-hour practicum and a 600-hour internship in K-12 school settings, which are crucial for hands-on experience and licensure eligibility. The scheduling of these clinical hours often impacts the overall timeline, especially for students balancing work or family commitments.

Several factors influence how long it takes to finish the degree and certification process in Ohio:

Program Structure: Full-time tracks generally last two years, while part-time paths may take three or more years depending on course availability and pacing.
Practicum & Internship Requirements: These supervised experiences must be completed in a K-12 setting, often concentrated in the final year, affecting the time to finish.
Licensing Process: After graduation, candidates must pass state exams and complete background checks, which can add several months to the overall timeline.
Previous Education: Those holding a prior master’s degree might qualify for an accelerated, post-master’s licensure route, shortening the process.

Looking ahead, technological advancements and evolving state policies might streamline these timelines through more flexible practicum placements or accelerated online coursework. Increased availability of hybrid learning models and personalized pacing could further reduce time-to-completion without sacrificing training quality.

However, the integrity of clinical experience and rigorous licensure exams will likely remain critical components, ensuring counselors are well-prepared for the diverse demands of Ohio’s K-12 schools. Understanding how the ideal student-to-school counselor ratio impacts workload and service quality adds another layer to evaluating career readiness.

What is the ideal student-counselor ratio?

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

Ohio requires all K-12 public school counselors to obtain a Pupil Services License with a School Counselor endorsement, regulated by the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce (ODEW). This license ensures counselors meet rigorous standards in knowledge and practical skills.

The certification process after earning the necessary degree involves several key steps that may evolve with advances in assessment methods and digital verification systems:

Pass the Required Exam: Successfully complete the Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) School Counselor exam, which evaluates essential counseling competencies and knowledge specific to Ohio schools.
Obtain Background Checks: Submit up-to-date Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) background checks to ensure student safety and legal compliance.
Apply for the License: Use the ODEW’s online platform to request the Five-Year Professional Pupil Services License—School Counselor, a mandatory credential for public school employment.
Complete an Approved Internship: Document completion of a state-approved school counseling internship, providing practical experience and preparation for real-world challenges.
Verify Institutional Recommendation: The degree-granting institution must electronically confirm program completion and eligibility, streamlining the licensure approval process.
Maintain and Renew License: Engage in continuing education to renew the license every five years, a practice likely to expand with emerging professional development technologies.

The chart below shows where school counselors are employed. Taking the largest percentage are local elementary and secondary schools. When getting certified as a school counselor, you need to know your employment prospects so you could evaluate which pathway makes going through the entire certification process worth it for you.

Can I transfer my Ohio school counseling license between states?

Ohio does not have direct reciprocity agreements for school counseling licenses, so you cannot automatically transfer your license to another state. Instead, most states follow a licensure by endorsement process, which evaluates whether your education, experience, and credentials meet their specific requirements. This typically involves submitting an application, providing official transcripts, verifying your Ohio license through the Ohio Department of Education, and meeting any additional criteria the new state may require.

Many states add extra steps such as passing a state-specific exam, completing supplemental coursework, undergoing a new background check, or providing proof of supervised professional experience. Some states offer provisional licenses so you can begin working while fulfilling outstanding requirements like additional training or exams. Application fees generally range from $100 to $250, and processing times can vary from a few weeks to several months.

While this process can be complex, Ohio’s rigorous school counseling preparation often meets or exceeds other states’ expectations, reducing the need for extensive remedial work. Still, researching each state’s licensure by endorsement process before relocating is essential to avoid delays. Understanding these requirements can help you plan ahead, minimize disruptions to your career, and transition more smoothly into a new role.

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

Ohio school counselors are required to renew their credentials every five years to maintain their licensure. This renewal cycle ensures that counselors stay current with best practices and continue to provide high-quality support to students. Below are the requirements to complete this process.

Continuing Education: Counselors must complete 18 continuing education units (CEUs), equivalent to 180 contact hours, relevant to their role within each renewal period.
Application Submission: Renewal applications are submitted online, including uploading proof of completed education and answering required questions.
Fee Payment: A $200 non-refundable fee is paid electronically with each renewal application.
Background Check: A new criminal background check, including fingerprinting, must be completed through an approved Webcheck site every renewal cycle.
Proof of Employment: Employed counselors may need to provide verification of their current position within an Ohio school or educational service center.
Coursework Alternative: Unemployed counselors can fulfill renewal requirements by completing six semester hours of approved coursework instead of CEUs.
Documentation Retention: All certificates and transcripts should be retained for at least four years for potential audits.
Renewal Deadline: Applications and requirements must be completed before October 1 of the license expiration year to avoid additional coursework or gaps in licensure.

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

Ohio offers several alternative routes for those pursuing school counseling without a traditional background in education, opening doors for career-changers and licensed professionals. These non-teaching pathways to become a school counselor in Ohio provide flexible options tailored to diverse experiences and credentials.

School Counseling Certificate for LPCs: Post-master’s certificate programs build on existing counseling licenses, requiring coursework and passing the Ohio Assessment for Educators (OAE) exam.
Provisional School Counselor License: Allows individuals without teaching experience to work under supervision after completing a master’s program and passing the OAE 040 exam.
Alternative Resident Educator License: An accelerated path primarily for teaching roles, adaptable for pupil services with additional training and state approval.
Out-of-State Degree and Experience: Reciprocity options exist for licensed counselors from other states meeting Ohio’s exam and experience requirements.
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate Programs: Designed for those with graduate degrees lacking school counseling coursework, including required field experience.

Each path emphasizes graduate coursework, exam success, and supervised practice, aligning with evolving workforce needs and the growing demand for skilled school counselors. For more detailed requirements, explore the counseling license application requirements by state.

The chart below shows that Ohio is among the five states with the most number of institutions offering CACREP-accredited programs. This demonstrates that the state upholds high standards in school counseling.

What is the average salary of school counselors in Ohio?

The median salary for school counselors in Ohio hovers around $54,000, which is slightly below the national median of approximately $58,000. This difference reflects regional economic factors and educational funding priorities that shape compensation trends in the state.

Location and District Funding: Urban and suburban districts with strong budgets typically offer higher salaries, reflecting local tax bases and resource availability.
Level of Education and Credentials: Advanced degrees and specialized certifications often lead to salary increases, rewarding deeper expertise and qualifications.
Years of Experience: Veteran counselors generally earn more, benefiting from step increases and tenure-based raises over time.
Type of School: Public schools tend to offer more consistent pay scales, while private schools may vary widely in compensation.
Grade Level Served: High school counselors often command higher pay due to complex college and career guidance responsibilities.
Additional Roles and Responsibilities: Leadership positions or multi-school duties can bring supplemental income beyond base salary.

A school counselor from Ohio who graduated locally reflected on navigating salary expectations early in his career. “Starting out, the pay was modest, but the district’s clear step system gave me a solid roadmap,” he shared. He noted that while the initial salary required careful budgeting, incremental raises and added roles made the financial picture steadily brighter. “Knowing the value of my credentials and experience helped me advocate for fair compensation,” he added. His journey underscores the importance of patience and strategic career moves within Ohio’s educational landscape, illustrating how counselors can grow their financial stability alongside their professional impact.

What is the median pay of school counselors?

What is the job outlook for school counselors in Ohio?

The job outlook for school counselors in Ohio is promising, with steady growth expected that aligns with or surpasses national trends. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for school and career counselors is projected to increase by 4% from 2023 to 2033 nationally, while Ohio’s growth rate is described as rapid by local sources. This positive trend reflects ongoing demand for qualified professionals to support student development and well-being.

Student Enrollment Trends: Ohio’s stable or increasing student population in public and private schools drives consistent demand for school counselors to provide academic and career guidance.
Rising Mental Health Needs: Growing awareness of mental health challenges among students amplifies the need for counselors skilled in social-emotional support and crisis intervention.
State Education Initiatives: Ohio’s Department of Education prioritizes school counselors in efforts to meet academic standards, enhance career readiness, and improve graduation rates, reinforcing their critical role.
Workforce Replacement: Anticipated retirements and career changes among current counselors contribute to an estimated 29,100 national openings annually, with Ohio’s share influenced by demographic factors and school system size.
Salary and Regional Demand: The median annual wage in Ohio is about $53,680, with greater opportunities potentially available in high-need districts or areas implementing new education policies.

As the field evolves, aspiring counselors in Ohio might also explore related credentials to enhance their qualifications, such as understanding the distinctions in an LPC vs LCSW degree comparison. This can offer greater flexibility and specialization in addressing diverse student needs within the evolving educational landscape.

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

Ohio school counselors have diverse avenues for career advancement, supported by evolving professional development opportunities for Ohio school counselors. These pathways emphasize leadership, specialized expertise, and higher education credentials to meet the growing needs of students and districts.

Lead or Head School Counselor: Requires several years of experience and leadership in counseling programs, overseeing school or district-level initiatives.
District-Level Counseling Coordinator: Involves managing multiple counseling teams and ensuring alignment with district goals, often requiring advanced degrees and extensive experience.
Administrator or Assistant Principal: Requires additional coursework and licensure in educational administration to take on broader leadership roles.
Specialist in Career Readiness or College Advising: Focuses on designing programs for student postsecondary success, necessitating ongoing professional development.
Professional Development Facilitator or Trainer: Demands expertise in adult education and best practices to lead workshops and statewide initiatives.
Consultant or Program Developer: Requires a master’s degree or higher and hands-on experience to support schools in innovative counseling program design.
Higher Education Faculty or Counselor Educator: Typically involves doctoral-level qualifications to teach and conduct research in counselor education.

Advancement depends on accumulating leadership experience, engaging in continuing education such as conferences or certifications, and pursuing advanced degrees like those found in the list of most affordable online masters in counseling degree programs. This approach not only elevates individual careers but also strengthens the profession’s impact statewide.

What do school counselors in Ohio say about their careers?

Completing my school counseling program at Kent State University gave me invaluable insights into Ohio’s educational landscape and student needs. Starting my career in a local school allowed me to apply theory to practice immediately, fostering strong relationships with students and staff. The stability of school counseling jobs here, combined with opportunities for ongoing professional development, has made this career both fulfilling and secure. I love knowing that my work supports the well-being and success of Ohio’s youth every day. Jude
My journey began after graduating from Cleveland State University, where the program’s focus on community engagement really resonated with me. Working in an Ohio school has presented unique challenges, especially addressing the diverse socio-economic backgrounds of students, but it has also offered me incredible opportunities to grow personally and professionally. The chance to influence students’ lives positively and contribute to our community’s future is deeply rewarding. I remain passionate about expanding my skills and making a tangible impact in education. Carly
Graduating from Ohio University’s counseling program prepared me well for the multifaceted role of a school counselor in this state. Ohio’s rich cultural diversity and the blend of urban and rural communities create a dynamic environment where I’ve been able to adapt and thrive. The career advancement possibilities here, supported by state resources and professional networks, have encouraged me to pursue leadership roles. It’s gratifying to know my work not only supports individual students but also strengthens the broader educational system. Elizabeth

What challenges do school counselors face in Ohio?

School counselors in Ohio encounter significant challenges that impact their daily practice and long-term career satisfaction. High student-to-counselor ratios frequently lead to overwhelming caseloads, limiting the time available for individualized student support. In addition, expanding administrative duties and evolving mental health crises contribute to increased workplace stress and potential burnout. Limited access to the most current professional development resources can further hinder effective intervention strategies. Staying informed about innovative approaches and professional advancement opportunities is essential; for instance, exploring the fastest way to become a counselor in Ohio can provide valuable insights and strategic guidance.

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

Can Ohio school counselors work in private practice?

School counselors in Ohio can work in private practice; however, they must meet specific requirements beyond their public school certification. To practice privately, counselors typically need to obtain credentials as a licensed professional counselor (LPC) or a similar license regulated by the Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. This licensure requires completing a master’s degree in counseling or a related field, accumulating supervised clinical experience, and passing a state-recognized exam.

While the Ohio Department of Education certifies school counselors for work within schools, this certification alone does not authorize private clinical practice. Private practice counselors must adhere to state licensure laws, which ensure ethical standards and competence in counseling services. Therefore, school counselors interested in private practice should pursue LPC licensure to legally offer counseling services outside the school environment. This pathway allows Ohio school counselors to expand their professional options and serve a broader client base while maintaining compliance with state regulations.

Which majors are best for aspiring school counselors in Ohio?

For aspiring school counselors in Ohio, selecting the right undergraduate major can significantly impact their preparation and career success. The most relevant majors typically include Psychology, Education, and Human Development and Family Studies. These fields provide foundational knowledge in child development, counseling techniques, and educational systems, which are essential for meeting Ohio’s licensure requirements.

According to the Ohio Department of Education, candidates for the school counseling license must complete a master’s degree in counseling or a related field, but a strong undergraduate background enhances graduate study readiness and practical skills.

Psychology majors offer insight into behavioral patterns and mental health, critical for addressing student needs. Education majors familiarize students with school environments and pedagogical strategies, improving collaboration with teachers and administrators.

Human Development majors focus on social and emotional growth across ages, aligning well with counseling roles. The Ohio School Counselor Association highlights that effective counselors usually possess interdisciplinary knowledge, combining these areas to support diverse student populations. Therefore, these majors serve as strategic choices for those pursuing school counseling careers in Ohio.

How much does a school counseling degree in Ohio cost?

The cost of a school counseling degree in Ohio varies depending on the institution and program type. On average, tuition for a master's degree in school counseling ranges from $8,000 to $30,000 for the entire program. Public universities generally offer more affordable rates, especially for in-state residents, while private institutions tend to charge higher tuition.

Additional expenses may include fees for books, materials, and licensing exams. Many programs require between 30 and 60 credit hours, which directly affects total tuition costs. Some students may qualify for financial aid, scholarships, or employer tuition reimbursement to help offset expenses.

It is important to research individual Ohio universities to understand their specific tuition rates and associated fees. Prospective students should also consider the program’s accreditation and length when evaluating costs. Overall, investing in a school counseling degree in Ohio is a significant but essential step toward a professional career in education and student support services.

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

Supervisors in Ohio look for several key qualities in school counseling practicum students. They expect students to demonstrate professionalism, strong communication skills, and ethical behavior. Being punctual and prepared for sessions shows responsibility and respect for the role.

Supervisors value students who actively engage with diverse student populations and show cultural competence. They look for the ability to apply counseling theories and techniques effectively in real-world settings. Critical thinking and problem-solving skills are essential for addressing student needs.

Supervisors also seek openness to feedback and a willingness to learn and grow throughout the practicum experience. Maintaining confidentiality and adhering to legal and ethical guidelines is crucial. Lastly, supervisors appreciate students who collaborate well with school staff and contribute positively to the school community. These qualities help ensure the practicum student is ready for a successful career as a licensed school counselor in Ohio.

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