How to Become a Michigan School Counselor
Becoming a school counselor in Michigan means earning a master’s degree in school counseling, completing a 600-hour supervised internship (fieldwork), passing the MTTC School Counselor (051) exam, and applying through the Michigan Online Educator Certification System. The full path typically takes about six to eight years. Requirements are set by the Michigan Department of Education (MDE).
Michigan Links
You already know you want to work with students. The question is how to get there from where you are right now. This page walks through the Michigan-specific path — from your first college credits through your School Counselor License — in three sections based on where you’re starting.
Explore the information below and learn how you can become a school counselor in Michigan. Some of the information below may be subject to change. For the most current requirements, contact your school counseling program advisor or the Michigan Department of Education Educator Certification department at 833-633-5788.
I’m a High School Graduate…
You’re starting early — which gives you time to be intentional about your path. School counseling requires a master’s degree, so your undergraduate years are the foundation, not the finish line.
Step One:
Pursue a bachelor’s degree. Most students choose psychology, education, social work, or a related field. Your undergrad major doesn’t determine your admission to a school counseling master’s program, but a background in human development, communication, or behavioral science will serve you well. The goal right now is to earn a solid GPA and explore what working with young people actually looks like.
Step Two:
Get direct experience with kids and adolescents. Volunteering, mentoring, or working in school or community settings helps you build skills and confirm that this career is the right fit. Look for opportunities through mentoring programs or community youth organizations in Michigan — these experiences will also strengthen your master’s program applications. Programs want to see that you’ve spent real time with the population you’re planning to serve.
I have already earned a college degree…
Here’s what Michigan requires to earn your School Counselor License (SCL):
Step One:
Earn a master’s degree in school counseling through an MDE-approved program. In some cases, candidates who already hold a relevant graduate degree may qualify by completing at least 30 semester hours in an approved school counselor education program. You can find master’s degree programs in school counseling here, or browse school counseling programs in Michigan.
Michigan also offers a Preliminary School Counselor License (PSCL) for candidates who are actively enrolled in an approved program, have completed at least 30 graduate semester hours, and have passed the MTTC. The PSCL is valid for 3 years and allows you to work in Michigan schools while you finish your degree. It’s not renewable, so the goal is to complete your program within that window. Talk to your program advisor about whether you may be eligible.
Step Two:
Complete a 600-hour supervised internship (fieldwork). At least 300 of those hours must be served in a school setting, working with school-aged students under the supervision of a credentialed school counselor or school counselor educator.
Step Three:
Pass the Michigan Test for Teacher Certification (MTTC) School Counselor (051) exam. Find registration information, testing dates, and locations on the MTTC website. For exam details, passing scores, and preparation guidance, see the Michigan school counselor certification page.
Step Four:
Complete a background check (typically required as part of the application process through MOECS). Learn more about the Michigan criminal background check procedure here.
Step Five:
Submit your application through the Michigan Online Educator Certification System (MOECS). Questions? Contact the Michigan Department of Education at 833-633-5788.
Once issued, the School Counselor License is valid for 5 years and is renewable without a set limit, provided that continuing education requirements are met.
I’m a certified counselor from another state…
Michigan recognizes school counseling credentials from other states, but your qualifications will be evaluated to confirm they meet Michigan’s requirements.
You’ll need to apply for the Michigan School Counselor License through the Michigan Online Educator Certification System (MOECS). Most out-of-state applicants are required to pass the MTTC School Counselor (051) exam. However, if you have at least three years of documented experience as a school counselor in another state, that experience may be accepted in place of the MTTC exam requirement, subject to state evaluation.
If you need additional time for testing, Michigan may issue a Temporary School Counselor License (TSCL) — a one-year, non-renewable credential that gives you time to meet the exam requirement while you work.
Learn more about applying as an out-of-state candidate here.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a school counselor in Michigan?
The full path typically takes about six to eight years. A bachelor’s degree takes around four years, and a master’s program in school counseling generally runs two to three years, with the 600-hour internship built into that program. If you’re studying part-time or entering graduate school after time in the workforce, the timeline can stretch. Either way, this is a deliberate path, not a quick credential.
Do I need a teaching certificate to become a school counselor in Michigan?
No. Michigan issues a standalone School Counselor License (SCL) that doesn’t require a teaching background. If you already hold a Michigan teaching certificate, you can alternatively pursue a School Counselor (NT) endorsement on that certificate, but it’s not the only route into the profession.
Can I work as a school counselor in Michigan while I’m still in my master’s program?
Yes, in some cases. If you’ve completed at least 30 graduate semester hours in an approved program and passed the MTTC, you may be eligible for a Preliminary School Counselor License (PSCL). This credential is valid for 3 years and allows you to work in Michigan schools while you finish your degree. It’s not renewable, so talk to your program advisor about eligibility and timing.
What is the MTTC School Counselor exam?
The Michigan Test for Teacher Certification (MTTC) School Counselor (051) is a computer-based exam required for licensure in Michigan. Visit the MTTC website to register and find current testing dates and locations. For passing score requirements and preparation resources, see the Michigan school counselor certification page.
Does Michigan accept school counseling credentials from other states?
Michigan does recognize out-of-state credentials, but your qualifications will be evaluated by the MDE Office of Educator Excellence. Most out-of-state applicants will need to pass the MTTC, though three years of documented school counseling experience may be accepted in place of the exam requirement, subject to state evaluation. Apply through MOECS.
- About six to eight years, typically — The path includes a bachelor’s degree, a master’s in school counseling, a 600-hour supervised internship, and the MTTC exam.
- Michigan’s MTTC is the state-specific hurdle — The School Counselor (051) exam is required for licensure, and your program should prepare you for it.
- You can work while you finish your degree — The Preliminary School Counselor License (PSCL) lets qualifying candidates work in Michigan schools during their master’s program.
- No teaching certificate required — Michigan offers a standalone School Counselor License that doesn’t require prior teaching experience.
- Out-of-state counselors can transfer — Michigan recognizes credentials from other states, with documented experience as a potential substitute for the MTTC, subject to state evaluation.
Ready to find a Michigan school counseling program that fits your timeline and goals?
