The role of a Michigan school counselor can be fulfilled by individuals who hold any of the following credentials:
The Temporary School Counselor License is a one year, non-renewable certificate for applicants who have completed all requirements of an out-of-state, approved school counselor educator program or its equivalency, including an internship in a school setting. Applicants who receive this credential are seeking an initial Michigan School Counselor License (SCL).
The Preliminary School Counselor License is valid for 3 years and is non-renewable. This credential is an interim certification for applicants enrolled in an in-state preparation program leading to a school counselor credential. Upon issuance of this credential, individuals are eligible to be hired by a Michigan school district to serve as a school counselor while completing their program.
The School Counselor License is a full credential for individuals serving in school counselor assignments. School counselors provide the following services: academic and career development, social/emotional development, advocacy, and leadership.
Educators who have a Michigan teaching certificate with the School Counselor (NT) endorsement also hold a full credential and are eligible to be assigned to serve in the dual capacity of a teacher of record and school counselor.
Both the School Counselor License and the Michigan Teaching Certificate with the School Counselor (NT) endorsement are valid for five years with unlimited renewals. A renewal can be requested any time after January 1 in the year the credential expires. All renewals require 150 education-related professional learning hours that includes 50 hours specific to college and career preparation.
