What Does a Career Counselor Do?

As of January 2026, approximately 10,880 career counselors were employed in the United States, according to Zippia. This role can be ideal for individuals who have a passion for helping others realize their professional aspirations. Career counselors work with high school and college students, veterans, midcareer professionals and those reentering the workforce. Counseling sessions can occur individually or in groups.

Career counselors work with people from specific populations or industries to help them identify their strengths and weaknesses and set long-term professional goals. With the guidance of these employment experts, clients can navigate the job market with confidence.

A bachelor’s degree in psychology program is a versatile undergraduate program that provides the training needed for beginning career counselor positions. Before entering the workforce themselves, aspiring counselors can gain practical experience through college-level internships, summer jobs or postgraduate employment.

Career Counselor Responsibilities

Individuals considering this occupation should be aware that school counselors and career counselors have similar but different roles. Some of their responsibilities overlap, such as providing people with resource referrals and educational advice, but the two roles have different education requirements.

Career counselors assist individuals of all ages in exploring occupations, developing job-related skills, preparing for interviews and finding employment. Their day-to-day duties can differ depending on the populations or industries they focus on, but typically they include the following:

• Helping clients review and update their resumes and cover letters
• Coaching individuals and groups on setting career goals and improving their job skills
• Evaluating aptitude and personality tests
• Providing salary negotiation advice
• Researching scholarships
• Educating individuals on certification and training programs 
• Role-playing interviews and providing tips
• Connecting clients with career workshops and job placement services

Typical Work Environments and Industries

Career counselors typically work full time during normal business hours, though some work part time or as contractors. Career counselors work in elementary and secondary schools, colleges and universities, and professional schools. Career counselors also work for private companies, government workforce agencies, corporate human resources offices and nonprofit organizations.

Career Counselor Education and Experience Requirements

Entry-level career counselor positions typically require at least a bachelor’s degree. A January 2026 report from Zippia shows that 60% of career counselors had a bachelor’s degree, while 23% had a master’s degree.

Degree programs in disciplines such as psychology, counseling, human resources, social science and human services provide a foundation in the skills and knowledge that career counselors rely on in their work. Some employers prefer candidates to have a master’s degree in counseling with a concentration in career development.

Hands-on experience is a key prerequisite to working independently. Many degree programs offer internships or shadowing opportunities so that students can develop an understanding of the typical responsibilities of career counselors. Entry-level positions that students can pursue while earning their degree or after they graduate include peer counselor, social services assistant or career coach.

Unlike school counselors, who are licensed by the state, career counselors do not typically require credentialing. Aspiring career counselors should check their state licensing board for any additional requirements for the role.

Salary and Job Outlook

The median annual salary for school and career counselors was $65,140 as of May 2024, with the highest 10% making more than $105,870, according to the BLS. Individual salaries can vary based on a person’s education level, experience and work setting.

Positions for school and career counselors are projected to increase 4% between 2024 and 2034, according to the BLS. This growth reflects the expected need for more qualified counselors as growing numbers of universities and colleges open career centers to help their students navigate a rapidly evolving job market. It also reflects the need for counselors who can help individuals seeking to change careers, find a new job after unemployment, or transition from the military to the civilian labor market.

Begin Your Career Counselor Journey Today

Career counselors impact the lives of students and working professionals by supporting their career success. Unlike other types of counselors who typically need to have a master’s degree and a license, these professionals can often begin their careers with a bachelor’s degree.

The Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program at the University at Albany explores topics such as personality, social psychology, cognitive behavior and child development. Students in the program develop their communication, presentation, critical analysis and data interpretation skills, all of which are critical for assessing clients’ needs and providing effective career guidance.

Offered both online and on campus, the program provides access to the psychology department’s mentorship program, which pairs undergraduates with graduate students for guidance in areas such as career exploration and networking. Psychology students who excel academically can join the department’s honors program or consider pursuing one of UAlbany’s master’s degree programs.

Learn how the University at Albany can prepare you to become a career counselor.