Study consultant

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

A study counselor works to guide and support individuals in their educational choices and studies. Tasks often include advising on education programs, courses, and study planning, as well as providing information about study grants and career paths. Contact occurs both individually and in groups, for example through lectures and workshops. Study counselors are usually active within schools, higher education, adult education, or employment agencies, collaborating with other professionals such as teachers, guidance counselors, and government staff. The work environment is characterized by meetings with people, administrative tasks, and sometimes travel between different educational institutions.

Salary development over time

The salary for study counselors has shown a steady upward trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 36,100 SEK per month, which increased to 37 200 in 2023 and further to 38 900 in 2024. This corresponds to a total increase of approximately 7.8% over three years. The salary increase can partly be explained by increased demand for qualified guidance and general salary adjustments in the public sector. Meanwhile, gender pay gaps have persisted, with men still earning higher average salaries than women in the profession. Regional differences exist, but the variation is often smaller than in many other administrative and educational professions.

Study counselor salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 38 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,000 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 49,300 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 234 SEK
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 38 000 SEK (92% of men's salary of 41 500 SEK)
• Regional differences: Less variation compared to other administrative professions

Education and qualifications

To work as a study counselor, a post-secondary education of at least three years in fields such as pedagogy, behavioral sciences, or social sciences is usually required. Many employers also seek experience in guidance or work related to education. Relevant education is often offered at universities or colleges and can be combined with additional courses in communication techniques and study administration.

• Formal education: Bachelor's degree in pedagogy, behavioral sciences, or similar (3 years)
• Supplementary courses: Communication techniques, guidance pedagogy
• Internship: Recommended within the education sector or adult education
• Prerequisites: High school diploma, often with a focus on social sciences
• Tips for choosing: Combine academic studies with internships or part-time jobs in education

Common benefits and compensations

Study counselors are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, and opportunities for professional development. Other common benefits include flexible working hours, extra vacation days, and sometimes remote work. Overtime pay and subsidized lunches are also available in some workplaces.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a study counselor is moderate and characterized by a balance between supply and demand. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, demand for the profession is expected to decrease slightly over the next five years, partly due to technological development and increased automation within administration and guidance. This means that the role may evolve, with a greater focus on digital advisory tools and self-service options. At the same time, employers are setting higher requirements for formal education and practical experience, which can make it more difficult for recent graduates to quickly establish themselves in the job market.

Tips for those who want to become a study counselor

To succeed as a study counselor, it is beneficial to have strong communication skills and a genuine interest in helping others achieve their goals. It is important to be attentive and able to adapt your approach to different individuals' needs, while precision and structure facilitate administrative tasks. Keeping up-to-date with the education system and labor market developments is crucial, as is taking initiative and driving projects forward. Flexibility and patience are also important qualities, especially when working with people in different life situations. Actively seeking internships and networking within the education sector increases the chances of building valuable contacts and gaining experience for future employment.

Key facts about Study Counselor

• Salary range: 34,000–49,300 SEK/month
• Education level: Post-secondary education (at least 3 years)
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 92% of men's salaries
• Work environment: Office-based, often within the education sector
• Available jobs in the profession: 758

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a study counselor can develop into more specialized roles, such as coordinator within adult education, educational leader, or supervisory positions in study and career guidance. There are also opportunities to work on development projects, evaluations, or as an educational administrator at a higher level. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, job opportunities are currently medium, but demand is expected to decrease somewhat over five years due to technological development and automation. For those wishing to broaden their skills, further training in pedagogy, leadership, or digital guidance can be the way forward.

Frequently asked questions about Study Counselor

• What does a study counselor earn?
  - The average salary is 38 900 SEK per month, ranging from 34,000 to 49,300 SEK.
• How do salary differences between men and women look?
  - Men earn an average of 41 500 SEK, women 38 000 SEK, which means women earn 92% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a study counselor?
  - Post-secondary education of at least three years in pedagogy, behavioral sciences, or social sciences is recommended.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Job opportunities are moderate but expected to decrease slightly over five years according to the Swedish Public Employment Service.
• Where do study counselors work?
  - Usually within schools, adult education, universities, or government agencies such as the employment service.
• Are there many job openings?
  - Currently, there are 758 available jobs nationally in the profession.
• What personal qualities are important for a study counselor?
  - Communication skills, attentiveness, organization, and flexibility are key qualities in the profession.