Guidance counselors

What does a study and career counselor do? – Tasks and work environment

A study and career counselor works to provide support and guidance to students, learners, and adults regarding educational choices and career paths. Tasks include individual consultations, group information sessions, application administration, and coordination with school staff, employers, and authorities. They are mainly employed in primary and secondary schools, adult education, and universities, but also within employment agencies and private training companies. The work environment involves meetings with people of different ages and backgrounds, often in school settings or offices where collaboration and communication are central parts of daily life.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, study and career counselors have seen a steady increase in salary levels. In 2022, the average salary was 37,400 SEK per month, rising to 38 700 SEK in 2023. The latest measured year, 2024, shows the average salary further increased to 40 100 SEK. This development corresponds to a total increase of approximately 7.2% over three years. The salary increase can be explained by an increased focus on skills supply within the education sector and a greater need for qualified guidance in a rapidly changing labor market. The trend also indicates that demand for educated study and career counselors remains stable, positively impacting salaries.

Study and career counselor salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 40 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,500 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 48,400 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 241 SEK
• Women: 40 200 SEK/month (101% of men's salary)
• Men: 39 600 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on region and employer.

Education and qualifications

To work as a study and career counselor, a university degree in guidance is required, typically a three-year program at university. The education combines pedagogy, psychology, and social sciences with practical training. It is also common to supplement with further training and courses in counseling methods and labor market knowledge.

• Study and career counseling program: Bachelor's level, 3 years (180 hp)
• Internship: Included as an integrated part of the program
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for university studies
• Further education: Courses in counseling methods, labor market, and psychology are recommended
• Tip: An interest in pedagogy and working with people is important

Common benefits and compensations

Study and career counselors are often covered by collective agreements that provide rights to occupational pension, holiday pay, and various insurances. Employers sometimes offer wellness allowances, professional development, and flexible working hours. Possibility for remote work exists in certain operations, especially within adult education and universities.

Competition and challenges

The market for study and career counselors is characterized by a balance between supply and demand, according to the latest forecast from the Employment Service. There are 434 job openings within the profession, indicating a stable labor market but also competition for positions in some regions. Challenges may arise from changes in the education system or reduced budgets in schools. Staying updated on labor market developments and new educational pathways is important to meet students' needs and labor market requirements. At the same time, the profession involves a high level of responsibility, where proper guidance can significantly impact individuals' futures.

Tips for those who want to become a study and career counselor

To succeed as a study and career counselor, it is good to combine attentiveness and analytical ability with a genuine interest in people. Those who are communicative and pedagogical often find it easier to build trust and explain complex educational paths in an understandable way. Being organized facilitates administrative work and helps keep track of many cases simultaneously. It is also advantageous to be flexible and able to adapt to different situations and individuals, as needs vary. An open mind and a willingness to learn new things, especially regarding changes in the labor market, are valuable. Someone who enjoys collaborating and building relationships with students and colleagues has good prospects for thriving and developing in the profession.

Key facts about study and career counselors

• Education level: University degree (bachelor's, 3 years)
• Work environment: School, adult education, university, or office
• Labor market: Moderate opportunities, balance between supply and demand
• Gender distribution: Women make up the majority and have higher average salaries
• Number of job openings: 434 within the profession (2024)

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years in the profession, a study and career counselor can develop into more specialized roles, such as coordinator, team leader, or responsible for guidance at a larger school or within adult education. Further education can open doors to management, project management, or work with skills development within educational organizations. According to the Employment Service forecast, opportunities for employment are moderate, and the job market situation is characterized by balance. Over five years, demand is expected to remain unchanged, providing stable future prospects for those choosing this career path.

Frequently asked questions about study and career counselors

• What does a study and career counselor earn?
  - A study and career counselor has an average salary of 40 100 SEK per month.
• What are the gender differences in the profession?
  - Women earn an average of 40 200 SEK, which is 101% of men's salary, which is 39 600 SEK.
• What education is required to become a study and career counselor?
  - The profession requires a bachelor's degree from the study and career counseling program at university, three years (180 hp).
• What are the future prospects?
  - According to the Employment Service, opportunities for employment are moderate, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What is the highest and lowest salary in the profession?
  - The highest salary is 48,400 SEK and the lowest is 27,500 SEK (depending on education, sector, and experience).
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salaries can vary between different regions and employers.
• How many job openings are currently available?
  - There are 434 job openings within the profession of study and career counselors.