Minnesota Initial School Counselor Certification

Initial Minnesota School Counselor Certification (Tier 2 and Tier 3)

Aspiring school counselors seeking their initial license in Minnesota begin with the Tier 2 certification (see Infographic). This credential is valid for two (2) years and can be renewed up to three (3) times. Upon reaching the renewal limit, candidates must qualify for Tier 3 licensure. Tier 2 certification entails either holding a master’s degree in counseling or being enrolled in an accredited school counselor program. It requires the completion of specific coursework within a designated time frame, ensuring progress toward degree attainment. Conversely, Tier 3 certification mandates possession of a master’s degree in school counseling from a regionally accredited institution, accompanied by completing a state-approved or CACREP-endorsed preparation program.

Notably, experience requirements diverge between the two tiers, with Tier 3 necessitating completion of designated hours in accredited programs or relevant field experience. While neither tier imposes examination prerequisites, applicants must undergo a background check to confirm their suitability for working with students.

For additional assistance, applicants are encouraged to explore resources available on the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB) website, where they can access FAQs and helpful tips to facilitate their certification journey.

Effective July 1, 2024, there will be modifications to the eligibility requirements for Tier 2 (see Admin Code for most updated requirements).

Education or Degree Requirements

Tier 2: Requires either a master’s degree in counseling or enrollment in an accredited school counselor program with a bachelor’s degree and at least 24 completed course credits in school counseling-specific coursework. A plan to complete the master’s program within three academic years is also necessary.

Tier 3: Requires a master’s degree in school counseling from a regionally accredited college or university, along with completion of a state-approved or Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Services (CACREP) approved preparation program.

Tips: Ensure that the selected program meets the accreditation standards set by CACREP or state-approved programs. Plan the coursework effectively to meet the credit hour requirements within the specified time frame.

Experience Requirements

Tier 2: No specific experience requirement other than focusing primarily on educational qualifications and enrollment in an accredited school counselor program or possession of a master’s degree in counseling.

Tier 3: Experience requirements include:

• Completion of 700 hours of experience in CACREP programs, comprising 100 hours of practicum and 600 hours of internship.
• Alternatively, completion of 700 hours of total experience in non-CACREP programs, which could include practicum and internship hours as well as other relevant experience in the field of school counseling.

These experience requirements ensure that candidates have practical, hands-on experience in the field, either through accredited programs or through other relevant experiences that align with the standards set for school counselor licensure.

Tips: Plan to accumulate the required hours of experience during your education. Seek opportunities for internships and practicums that align with the certification requirements.

Testing Requirements

As of February 2020, there are no examination requirements for Minnesota School Counseling endorsements. Therefore, no testing is required for either Tier 2 or Tier 3 certification.

Background Checks

A background check is required for Minnesota school counselor certification to ensure the safety and well-being of students. It helps verify the applicant’s suitability for working with children and adolescents in educational settings.

To meet the background check requirements, you must submit a fingerprint card along with their application. You can request a fingerprint card by emailing pelsb@state.mn.us with the subject line “Fingerprint Card Request” and providing your full name and mailing address, or by calling 651-539-4200 (Option 1).

Application Process

The Online Licensing System facilitates initial license applications while existing license holders must submit paper applications available at the office. To confirm the previous licensure, utilize the license lookup tool. PELSB typically issues licenses within a 30-day timeframe.

Application for both Tier 2 and Tier 3 certifications must be submitted in one complete packet. The application materials include (find details for everything required in your application on this PELSB webpage):

• Completed application form (online or paper option).
• Official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended.
• Completed fingerprint card.
• Application fee of $90.25.

Application submission:

• By mail to PELSB at 1021 Bandana Blvd. E, Suite 222, Saint Paul MN 55108-5111.
• Online application URL: PELSB Online Application.

For any inquiries regarding your School Counselor license application, feel free to contact the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB) during regular business hours, from 8 AM to 2 PM CST, Monday to Friday. You can reach us by phone at 651-539-4200. Additionally, you have the option to reach out to a licensing specialist via email at pelsb@state.mn.us. If you prefer in-person assistance, the walk-in center is open from 8 AM to 4 PM, Monday through Friday, located at 1021 Bandana Blvd E., Suite 222, St. Paul MN 55108-5111.