Employment Counsellors & Career Development Practitioners

Learn about this occupation – including typical duties, education required, salary and job outlook information, job boards and more.

Employment counsellors and career development practitioners provide assistance and information to clients on all aspects of career planning and employment search. They also provide advice and information to employer clients regarding employment issues and human resources. Employment counsellors and career development practitioners are employed by human resource departments of establishments, employment service organizations, consulting firms, correctional facilities and by federal and provincial governments. Supervisors of employment counsellors are included in this unit group. (Adapted from the National Occupational Classification)

Occupational profile

Find detailed information about the occupation, including typical duties and working conditions, in the links below.

Education

A bachelor's degree or college diploma in employment counselling, career development or in a related field, such as human resources development, psychology, education or social services is required. A master's degree in counselling psychology or a related field such as educational psychology, developmental psychology or social work may be required. In Quebec, membership in a professional association is mandatory to use the title ''counsellor''. (NOC)

Increasingly, employers are looking for applicants who have a certificate, diploma or degree in career development, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. (alis)

U of M Academic Calendar
The Academic Calendar & Catalogue outlines program admission and course requirements. Use the left menu to navigate to a specific faculty and program. To determine which degree path suits your unique occupational goals, speak with a Career Consultant. For support with course registration and academic issues, speak with an Academic Advisor.

Faculty and Department Homepages
Visit the faculty and department homepage to learn about program application deadlines and processes, as well as additional in-house resources and opportunities.

Exploring Other Education Options

Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials - information for foreign-trained employment counsellors

Labour market information

Labour market information informs users of supply and demand for specific occupations and sectors. It includes such things as salary and job outlook information. These resources support informed career decision making and job search efforts. 

Resources

Professional Associations
Professional associations organize events and directories, job postings, career and labour market information. Student membership opportunities are also available. This is a great way to learn and network. 

Directories, Industry Associations, and Sector Councils
These resources provide industry news, labour market information and a list of potential employers. Remember, there are usually multiple industries worth exploring. 

Job Boards
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Other links

External resources that will provide you with additional information about the occupation, areas of work and opportunities to build experience: 

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Last updated: February 19, 2021