How to Become a School Counselor in Utah for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Utah’s need for skilled school counselors has reached a pivotal point, driven by rising student populations, increased diversity, and growing awareness of student mental health needs. With only 45% of schools meeting the recommended counselor-to-student ratio, the shortage is both urgent and consequential.

The profession offers stability, competitive salaries above the national median, and strong job growth, making it an appealing career path. In this guide, I will walk you through the essential qualifications, licensure process, salary expectations, and other key insights to help you succeed in this field.

Key Things to Know About Becoming a School Counselor in Utah

Aspiring school counselors must obtain a master’s degree in school counseling or a related field from an accredited institution, meeting Utah State Board of Education requirements.
Only 45% of Utah schools meet the recommended counselor-to-student ratio, highlighting a critical shortage.
The supervised internship experience is typically 600 hours; aside from this, continuing education is required to maintain licensure.

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

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

To meet school counselor degree requirements, candidates must complete a graduate program that aligns with state licensure standards. The following are essential academic components for obtaining a master’s degree in school counseling in Utah.

Master’s Degree in School Counseling: Completion of a master’s degree from a Utah-approved Educator Preparation Program (EPP) or an out-of-state program accredited by CACREP or recognized by CHEA is mandatory for licensure.
Minimum Graduate Credit Hours: The program must include at least 60 semester hours of graduate coursework focused on counselor education or counseling for mental health, ensuring comprehensive academic preparation.
Field Experience Requirement: Students must complete 400 to 600 hours of supervised field experience in a K-12 setting, with the required hours varying based on prior teaching experience.
Minimum GPA Requirement: Admission and graduation typically require a minimum overall GPA of 3.0, with no grade lower than a B- in required courses, reflecting academic rigor.
No GRE Requirement: Many Utah programs do not mandate the GRE for admission, facilitating access to the master’s degree in school counseling in Utah.

Prospective students interested in the fast way to become a licensed counselor will find these degree prerequisites foundational to entering the profession within Utah’s education system.

Are there school counseling specializations in Utah?

Counseling programs in Utah that are accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) offer specialized training that equips school counselors with the skills necessary to address diverse student needs effectively. These specializations allow practitioners to focus on critical areas within the educational environment to enhance student support and development.

K-12 School Counseling: Prepares counselors for academic, career, and social-emotional support across elementary to high school levels, covering lifespan development and school-based mental health strategies.
College and Career Readiness: Focuses on guiding students through postsecondary planning, including college admissions and career exploration, addressing the high student-to-counselor ratio prevalent in Utah.
Multicultural and Social Justice Counseling: Develops cultural competence and advocacy skills to support equity and inclusion within diverse school communities.
Crisis and Trauma Response: Trains counselors in risk assessment and intervention planning to assist students facing trauma, grief, or crisis situations.
Mental Health and Wellness Promotion: Emphasizes prevention and early intervention strategies for mental health, including school-wide wellness program implementation.

For those seeking the fastest way to become a therapist, understanding these school counseling specializations can guide the choice of graduate training paths that align with career goals in educational settings.

It is also important to note that school counselors come from a range of educational backgrounds, with bachelor’s and master’s degrees being the most common. Others enter the profession with associate degrees, high school diplomas, or alternative qualifications, reflecting the varied pathways into the field. The chart below provides a detailed breakdown of these educational levels.

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

Completing a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in School Counseling in Utah generally takes two to three years, depending on whether students enroll full-time or part-time. Full-time programs typically span about two years, often structured across six semesters including summer terms. Part-time study options are available, extending the duration to around three years to accommodate working professionals or those with additional commitments.

Several state-specific requirements impact the timeline for degree completion. Programs usually require between 51 and 60 credit hours and mandatorily include a 600-hour internship in a Utah State Board of Education-approved K-12 setting. This practical experience is crucial for licensure and must be scheduled carefully around school calendars and student availability. Additionally, students must pass the Praxis 5422 School Counseling licensing exam after finishing coursework and fieldwork.

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

To practice as a school counselor in Utah, candidates must obtain a state-issued license through the Utah State Board of Education (USBE). Two primary certifications exist: the Associate Educator License (AEL), typically for provisional status, and the Professional Educator License (PEL), which allows full independent practice in K-12 public schools.

The certification process involves several key steps after completing the required school counseling degree:

Application Submission: Candidates apply via the USBE online system, providing proof of their counseling degree and supporting documents to initiate credential review.
Praxis Examination: Passing the Praxis II: Professional School Counselor exam (test code 5421 or successor) is mandatory to demonstrate professional competency.
Background Check and Fingerprinting: A comprehensive background screening is required to ensure safety and professional integrity.
Supervised Internship/Practicum: Submission of verified experience from a supervised counseling internship within a school is essential for practical skill development.
License Issuance: Upon meeting all requirements, candidates receive an AEL or PEL; the PEL is valid for five years and is renewable with continuing professional development.

Understanding these licensing steps is essential, and the chart below highlights the average tenure of school counselors, providing context for career longevity in the field.

what is the average tenure of school counselors

Can I transfer my Utah school counseling license between states?

Utah does not participate in automatic interstate reciprocity agreements that allow school counselors to transfer licenses seamlessly between states. Instead, it uses a licensure-by-endorsement system common throughout the United States, where each state independently evaluates credentials. Although Utah accepts out-of-state licenses, the reverse is not guaranteed.

Counselors moving from Utah to another state should prepare for additional requirements, which typically include:

Submitting an application for licensure by endorsement or reciprocity to the new state’s licensing board, providing proof of the Utah license and official transcripts showing completion of a relevant master’s degree.
Undergoing credential evaluation to confirm that Utah’s coursework and practicum meet the new state’s standards, sometimes requiring additional classes.
Passing state-specific examinations, such as the Praxis School Counselor Exam or jurisprudence tests, even if previously licensed.
Completing FBI background checks and fingerprinting, regardless of prior clearance in Utah.
Providing documentation of supervised work experience, often with minimum hour or year requirements.
Possibly obtaining provisional or temporary licensure while fulfilling outstanding obligations.
Meeting any state-specific mandates related to coursework on local laws, child abuse reporting, or cultural competency.

Transferring a school counseling license from Utah to another state can be challenging due to inconsistent standards, administrative delays, and the financial costs of exams, applications, and supplemental coursework. One Utah school counselor who graduated locally shared that, while her program prepared her well, she still had to complete additional coursework and pass a state-specific exam, which was stressful but ultimately strengthened her skills.

She valued that Utah’s endorsement system let her apply without starting over, but warned others to expect paperwork delays and extra expenses. Her experience underscores the need for preparation, patience, and flexibility when navigating interstate licensure.

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

Utah school counselors holding a professional educator license must renew their credentials every five years. Licenses expire on June 30th of the fifth school year after issuance, ensuring counselors maintain current professional standards throughout their careers.

Renewal Cycle: Licenses must be renewed every five years, expiring on June 30th of the fifth year after issuance.
Renewal Window: Renewal applications are accepted between January 1 and June 29 of the expiring year; early renewals are not allowed.
Continuing Education: Counselors must complete approved professional learning activities totaling the required clock hours, verified by a licensed administrator’s signature.
Application Process: Renewal is completed online via the Utah Schools Information Management System (USIMS), including submission of documentation and the renewal form.
Proof of Employment: Counselors employed continuously in Utah schools for the prior five years are eligible for automatic renewal without submitting a form or administrator's signature.
Background Check: Most applicants must complete a fingerprinting and FBI background check, especially if there are employment gaps or a new residency in Utah.
Fees: A renewal fee, determined by the Utah State Board of Education, must be paid online during the renewal process.

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

Utah provides several alternative certifications for school counselor paths tailored for career-changers or those without a traditional educational background. These routes allow candidates to enter the profession while meeting specific state requirements, including graduate coursework, supervised fieldwork, and exams.

Alternate Pathway to Professional Educator License (APPEL): Candidates with a bachelor’s degree apply for an Associate Educator License, complete pedagogy coursework, and fulfill supervised fieldwork while employed in a school setting.
University-Based Alternative Certification Programs: Offered by several Utah universities, these programs lead to certification or a master’s degree, often completed within 12 months, including practicum and internships.
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate and Master’s Programs: Designed for non-education graduates, these programs require graduate-level counseling courses, internships, and passing comprehensive exams like the Praxis.
Relevant Work Experience and Conditional Licensure: Some candidates with experience in youth services or mental health may receive provisional licensure, completing required coursework and exams to advance.

For those seeking flexible options, exploring a cheap online PhD in counseling degrees may further support career advancement in this field.

What are the continuing education opportunities for school counselors in Utah?

Utah school counselors can enhance their effectiveness and stay current with best practices through a range of continuing education programs. These include state-approved workshops, accredited online seminars, and conferences focused on emerging counseling techniques and policy updates. Pursuing specialized certifications and advanced training not only aids in meeting mandatory professional development credits but also supports career progression. For more detailed guidance on accelerating your professional qualifications, consider the fastest way to become a counselor in Utah.

What is the average salary of school counselors in Utah?

The median salary for school counselors in Utah is approximately $55,000 per year, which is notably lower than the national median for this profession. This salary difference reflects various state-specific factors that influence compensation levels for school counselors.

Level of Experience: Counselors with more years in the field typically earn higher salaries, benefiting from accumulated expertise and proven effectiveness.
Education and Credentials: Advanced degrees and certifications can lead to higher pay, as districts often reward additional qualifications.
School District and Location: Salaries vary between urban, suburban, and rural districts, with some areas offering more competitive wages due to budget and living costs.
Type of Institution: Public schools generally provide more structured salary scales compared to private or charter schools, affecting overall compensation.
Job Market Demand: As shown in the image below, there were fewer than 200,000 school counselors in the U.S. in 2024. Increased demand for qualified counselors can drive salaries upward as districts compete to attract talent.

When discussing salary expectations, a school counselor from Utah who graduated locally shared insights based on his experience: “Starting out, I found the salary modest compared to some neighboring states, but the benefits and job stability were reassuring. Over time, as I gained experience and pursued additional certifications, I saw incremental raises that made the role financially sustainable.”

He also emphasized the importance of understanding regional salary trends and noted, “While the initial pay wasn’t high, the opportunity to grow professionally and increase earnings through education and experience made this career path rewarding.” This reflection highlights how salary progression in Utah aligns with career development and local economic factors.

What is the job outlook for school counselors in Utah?

Employment opportunities for school counselors in Utah are projected to grow steadily, with a 7.5% increase in positions from 2022 to 2025 and an additional 4.3% growth anticipated thereafter. This outlook aligns with national trends, where school and career counselor roles are expected to expand by 4% from 2023 to 2033, reflecting consistent demand supported by educational and social factors.

Student Enrollment Growth: Increasing numbers of school-age children in Utah drive the need for more school counselors to assist with academic and career guidance.
Mental Health Awareness: Enhanced recognition of student mental health needs has broadened counselor responsibilities, creating higher demand for professionals skilled in emotional and social support.
State Education Initiatives: Programs like the Utah College and Career Readiness School Counseling Program Model emphasize comprehensive counseling services, necessitating additional qualified counselors.
Competitive Salaries and Advancement: Utah’s average school counselor salary is $54,995, with variation by experience and location, which influences recruitment and career growth.
National Comparison: Utah’s employment growth rate for school counselors is comparable to the national average, though the state ranks 50th in salary, impacting workforce retention.
Job Openings and Turnover: Nationally, about 29,100 annual openings arise due to retirements and transitions, trends expected to be reflected in Utah’s marketplace.

Prospective counselors exploring educational pathways may consider resources such as the ranking of most affordable online colleges for counseling degree to identify accessible programs that align with professional goals.

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

Career advancement for school counselors in Utah presents a variety of leadership and specialized roles that build upon foundational counseling experience and ongoing education. These opportunities enable counselors to expand their impact within educational systems and beyond.

Lead or Head School Counselor: Requires several years of counseling experience and leadership skills to oversee programs and mentor staff in larger schools or districts.
District School Counseling Coordinator/Supervisor: Involves managing counseling programs across schools, typically requiring a master’s degree, administrative licensure, and program coordination experience.
School Administrator (Principal or Assistant Principal): Requires additional graduate coursework and passing the Utah School Leadership License exam, along with school experience.
Postsecondary or Academic Advisor: Transition into higher education roles needing a master’s degree and relevant advising experience.
College and Career Readiness Specialist: Focuses on developing and assessing readiness programs with specialized training and career counseling expertise.
Professional Development Facilitator/Trainer: Leads counselor training and workshops, requiring demonstrated leadership and communication skills.
Adjunct Faculty or Instructor: Teaching roles in counselor education programs, needing advanced degrees and significant field experience.

Advancement in school counseling leadership opportunities Utah depends heavily on continuous professional development and specialized credentials. Counselors seeking to enhance their qualifications may explore programs such as the shortest MFT online program to broaden their expertise and career prospects.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2025), public education systems remain the dominant employment sector for school and career counselors, with the majority working in elementary, secondary, and higher education institutions.

Private education and other related services employ a smaller share of professionals, highlighting the central role that public schools and colleges play in shaping the counseling workforce. The chart below illustrates how these employment settings are distributed across the profession.

What do school counselors in Utah say about their career?

Completing my school counseling program at Weber State University truly prepared me for the unique challenges and rewards of working in Utah’s diverse educational landscape. Starting my career in a local school, I’ve witnessed firsthand how the strong community values here support student growth and resilience. The opportunity to help students navigate both academic and personal challenges in this environment has been incredibly fulfilling. I appreciate the stability and opportunities for advancement that come with being a school counselor in Utah’s public schools. It’s a career where I feel I can make a lasting impact every day. - Jarvy
My time finishing the counseling program at the University of Utah was a period of tremendous personal and professional growth. Working in a local school setting, I've developed a deep understanding of how Utah’s unique cultural and environmental factors shape student experiences. The role has challenged me to adapt creatively and build strong connections with students and families. I find it rewarding to contribute positively to the well-being of young people while continuously advancing my skills through professional development opportunities offered in the state. - Keisha
Graduating from Utah State University’s counseling program opened doors to a fulfilling career where I could blend my passion for education with a commitment to community service. Starting my work at a local school, I quickly realized the importance of addressing the specific needs of students influenced by Utah’s outdoor lifestyle and close-knit communities. This aspect makes the job uniquely rewarding and sometimes challenging, but always meaningful. I’m proud to be part of a profession that supports youth in such a dynamic and supportive environment. - Minh

Other Things to Know About Becoming A School Counselor in Utah

Can Utah school counselors work in private practice?

School counselors in Utah primarily work within public or private educational institutions, but they can pursue private practice if they meet specific licensing requirements. To offer counseling services privately, school counselors must obtain an independent licensure beyond their standard school counseling credentials.

This typically involves earning a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) credential or a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) credential through the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing. Without these credentials, school counselors are not authorized to provide private practice counseling services.

Which majors are best for aspiring school counselors in Utah?

The most relevant majors include Psychology, Education, and Social Work. Psychology provides a strong foundation in understanding human behavior, which is essential for addressing students' emotional and developmental needs. Education majors, especially those focused on counseling or child development, prepare students with practical classroom experience and insight into educational systems.

Social Work offers valuable training in crisis intervention and community resources, which are critical for school counselors who often support students facing complex social challenges.

How much does a school counseling degree in Utah cost?

On average, tuition for a master's degree in school counseling ranges from $7,000 to $20,000 per year for in-state students. Public universities in Utah typically offer more affordable tuition rates compared to private institutions.

Additional expenses include fees, books, and supplies, which can add several hundred to a few thousand dollars annually. Online programs may have different pricing structures, sometimes offering more flexibility or reduced costs. Financial aid, scholarships, and assistantships can help offset these expenses.

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

Supervisors in Utah seek school counseling practicum students who are professional, ethical, and committed to student growth. Key qualities include strong communication, cultural competence, adaptability, and the ability to apply counseling theories effectively. They value rapport-building skills, organizational abilities, and time management, along with openness to feedback and reflective practice. Familiarity with Utah’s educational policies and a proactive approach to learning further distinguish successful candidates.

References:

Rocky Mountain University. (n.d.). Master of science in counseling. Rocky Mountain University. https://rm.edu/master-of-science-in-counseling/

School Counselor Certification. (n.d.). Utah school counselor certification reciprocity. School Counselor Certification. https://www.schoolcounselorcertification.com/how-to-become-a-school-counselor/utah-school-counselor-certification-reciprocity/

University of Tennessee at Martin. (n.d.). MSED: Counseling: School. University of Tennessee at Martin. https://www.utm.edu/academics/majors-and-programs/msed-counseling-school

Utah State University. (n.d.). Overview | Master’s program | Psychology. Utah State University. https://cehs.usu.edu/psychology/masters/

Utah State University. (n.d.). School counseling – MEd. Utah State University. https://www.usu.edu/degrees-majors/school-counseling_med

Utah Valley University. (n.d.). Master of education in school counseling, M.Ed. | Utah Valley University academic catalog. Utah Valley University. https://catalog.uvu.edu/education/education-graduate-programs/school-counseling-med/