Academic Counselor

Becoming an Academic Counselor – Degrees and Schooling Guide [2026 Guide]

Last Updated:
December 17, 2025

Academic counseling is integral to student life on almost all campuses. It is the process of advising students on a range of academic and personal issues, including course selection, post‑graduation career choices, financial aid, tutoring, and personal counseling. Counseling can be delivered individually, in small groups, or on large campus sites. The goal is to increase student satisfaction, retention, and employment rates by providing a support system for students at every stage of their academic journey.

Academic counselors work closely with school/college students to assist them in achieving their educational and career goals. They help students choose majors, select courses, track progress toward graduation, and develop the social and academic skills needed for college success. Counselors also mediate disputes, provide a sympathetic ear to students struggling with personal issues, and arrange appropriate referrals for counseling.

To work in higher education, a bachelor’s degree in education or a related field is required, followed by a master’s degree in counseling. Depending on the state, a license may be required to work in academic settings; private practice counselors must be licensed. Check your state Department of Education for details.

Many institutions require a few years of experience in the education field before obtaining a counselor position. Internships, substitute teaching, or other roles in a college or university setting can help you gain relevant experience.

Good communication and listening skills are essential. Counselors must be professional, tolerant, and open to working with students of diverse ages, backgrounds, and ethnicities. They must be able to understand a student's perspective, stay calm in stressful situations, and maintain confidentiality.

• Elementary and secondary schools
• Colleges and universities
• Professional schools
• Healthcare and social assistance

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for an academic counselor is $76,960.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects growth of 4 percent between 2024 and 2034, an average growth rate. With more students pursuing higher education and career switching becoming more common, academic counseling remains a growing and thriving profession.