Teacher and Counsellor banner
a Teacher and Counsellor thumbnail
Teacher and Counsellor

Overview, Education, Careers Types, Skills, Career Path, Resources

Teachers educate and guide students, while counselors provide support and guidance for personal and academic growth, fostering a positive learning environment.

Average Salary

₹3,50,000

Growth

medium

Satisfaction

high

Home/Careers/social sciences humanities and education/teacher and counsellor
Educational Requirements

Education Requirements to Become a Teacher and Counselor

To pursue a career as a teacher and counselor in India, a combination of educational qualifications and specific skills is required. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

  • Bachelor's Degree:
    • A bachelor's degree in any discipline (Arts, Science, Commerce) is the foundational requirement.
    • Some universities may prefer a bachelor's degree in Education (B.Ed) right from the start.
  • Bachelor of Education (B.Ed):
    • A B.Ed degree is essential to become a certified teacher in most schools in India.
    • The B.Ed program focuses on pedagogy, educational psychology, and teaching methodologies.
  • Master's Degree (M.A. or M.Sc.):
    • For higher-level teaching positions (high school or higher secondary), a master's degree in the specific subject is often required.
  • Counseling Certification/Diploma:
    • To work as a counselor, a specialized diploma or certification in counseling is necessary.
    • Courses such as Diploma in Guidance and Counseling (DGC) are highly valuable.
  • Master's Degree in Counseling (M.A. Counseling):
    • A master's degree in Counseling Psychology or a related field provides advanced knowledge and skills in counseling techniques.
  • National Eligibility Test (NET) / State Eligibility Test (SET):
    • For teaching positions in colleges and universities, clearing the NET or SET exam is mandatory.
  • Ph.D. (Optional):
    • A Ph.D. is usually required for professorships and advanced research positions in universities.

Key Skills

  • Communication Skills: Essential for explaining concepts and counseling students.
  • Empathy: To understand and support students' emotional needs.
  • Patience: Dealing with students requires a lot of patience and understanding.
  • Problem-Solving Skills: To address academic and personal issues effectively.
  • Organizational Skills: To manage classroom activities and counseling sessions efficiently.
Study Path
Top Colleges

Top Colleges in India for Aspiring Teachers and Counselors

Choosing the right college is crucial for building a strong foundation for a career as a teacher and counselor. Here are some of the top colleges in India known for their excellent programs in education, psychology, and counseling:

  • Delhi University (DU), Delhi:
    • Offers a wide range of programs including B.Ed, M.Ed, M.A. in Psychology, and Ph.D. programs.
    • Renowned for its experienced faculty and comprehensive curriculum.
  • Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI), Delhi:
    • Offers B.Ed, M.Ed, and M.A. in Education and Psychology.
    • Known for its inclusive environment and focus on research.
  • Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi:
    • Provides B.Ed, M.Ed, and M.A. in Psychology and Education.
    • One of the oldest and most prestigious universities in India.
  • Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai:
    • Offers specialized programs in counseling and psychology.
    • Known for its focus on social justice and community engagement.
  • Lady Shri Ram College (LSR), Delhi:
    • Offers undergraduate programs in Psychology and Education.
    • Highly regarded for its academic excellence and holistic development.
  • Christ University, Bangalore:
    • Offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Psychology and Education.
    • Known for its modern facilities and industry-oriented curriculum.
  • Amity University, Noida:
    • Provides a range of programs in Education and Psychology.
    • Known for its innovative teaching methods and global collaborations.
  • Osmania University, Hyderabad:
    • Offers B.Ed, M.Ed, and M.A. in Psychology and Education.
    • One of the oldest and most reputable universities in South India.
  • University of Calcutta, Kolkata:
    • Offers programs in Education and Psychology.
    • Known for its rich history and academic rigor.
  • Madras Christian College (MCC), Chennai:
    • Offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Psychology.
    • Highly regarded for its academic standards and campus environment.

These colleges provide a strong academic foundation, experienced faculty, and opportunities for practical training, making them excellent choices for aspiring teachers and counselors.

Fees

Fee Structure for Courses to Become a Teacher and Counselor

The cost of pursuing a career as a teacher and counselor in India can vary widely depending on the type of institution (government, private, or autonomous) and the specific course. Here’s a general overview of the fee structures:

  • Bachelor of Education (B.Ed):
    • Government Colleges: ₹5,000 to ₹20,000 per year.
    • Private Colleges: ₹30,000 to ₹1,50,000 per year.
    • Autonomous Colleges: ₹20,000 to ₹80,000 per year.
  • Master of Arts (M.A.) in Education/Psychology/Counseling:
    • Government Colleges: ₹3,000 to ₹15,000 per year.
    • Private Colleges: ₹20,000 to ₹1,00,000 per year.
    • Autonomous Colleges: ₹15,000 to ₹60,000 per year.
  • Diploma in Guidance and Counseling (DGC):
    • Government Institutes: ₹2,000 to ₹10,000 per year.
    • Private Institutes: ₹10,000 to ₹50,000 per year.
  • Master of Education (M.Ed):
    • Government Colleges: ₹5,000 to ₹25,000 per year.
    • Private Colleges: ₹40,000 to ₹2,00,000 per year.
  • Ph.D. in Education/Psychology/Counseling:
    • Government Universities: ₹2,000 to ₹10,000 per year (excluding other expenses).
    • Private Universities: ₹30,000 to ₹2,00,000 per year.

Additional Costs

  • Application Fees: ₹500 to ₹2,000 per application.
  • Hostel Fees: ₹20,000 to ₹1,00,000 per year (depending on the location and facilities).
  • Examination Fees: ₹1,000 to ₹3,000 per exam.
  • Study Materials: ₹3,000 to ₹10,000 per year.

These figures are approximate and can vary. It’s advisable to check the official websites of the respective institutions for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Related Exams

Exams to Pursue a Career as a Teacher and Counselor

To become a teacher and counselor in India, several exams can help you achieve your career goals. These exams range from entrance tests for teacher training programs to qualification exams for higher-level teaching positions.

  • Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) Entrance Exams:
    • Many universities and colleges conduct entrance exams for admission to their B.Ed programs. These exams typically assess general aptitude, teaching aptitude, and subject knowledge.
  • Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET):
    • CTET is conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and is mandatory for teachers seeking employment in central government schools (like Kendriya Vidyalayas and Navodaya Vidyalayas).
    • It tests the candidate's knowledge of child development and pedagogy, language proficiency, and subject knowledge.
  • State Teacher Eligibility Tests (TETs):
    • Each state in India conducts its own TET for teachers seeking employment in state government schools. The syllabus and pattern are similar to CTET but may include state-specific content.
  • National Eligibility Test (NET):
    • NET is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for determining the eligibility of candidates for Assistant Professor positions in colleges and universities.
    • It is essential for those aspiring to teach at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
  • State Level Eligibility Test (SLET) / State Eligibility Test (SET):
    • SLET/SET is conducted by various states for the same purpose as NET, but it is valid only within the respective state.
  • Entrance Exams for Master's Programs in Psychology/Counseling:
    • For those wanting to pursue a career in counseling, entrance exams for M.A./M.Sc. in Psychology or Counseling are important.
  • UGC NET for Psychology:
    • If you aim to become a professor in psychology or counseling, clearing UGC NET in Psychology after your master's is crucial.

These exams not only provide eligibility for teaching positions but also ensure a certain standard of competence and knowledge among educators and counselors.

Exam NameExam Date
Pros And Cons

Pros

  1. Making a Difference: Positively impacting students' lives.
  2. Job Security: Consistent demand for educators and counselors.
  3. Intellectual Stimulation: Continuous learning and growth.
  4. Varied Work Environment: Engaging with diverse students.
  5. Personal Satisfaction: Seeing students succeed and grow.
  6. Opportunities for Advancement: Career growth through further education.
  7. Respect and Recognition: Esteemed position in society.
  8. Summer Breaks: Extended time off for personal pursuits.
  9. Transferable Skills: Develop valuable communication and leadership skills.
  10. Contribution to Society: Shaping future generations.

Cons

  1. High Stress Levels: Managing student behavior and expectations.
  2. Emotional Toll: Dealing with students' personal issues.
  3. Administrative Burden: Paperwork and non-teaching tasks.
  4. Limited Earning Potential: Lower salaries compared to other professions.
  5. Long Working Hours: Extra time for lesson planning and grading.
  6. Lack of Resources: Inadequate facilities in some schools.
  7. Bureaucratic Challenges: Dealing with school administration.
  8. Dealing with Difficult Parents: Managing parental expectations.
  9. Risk of Burnout: High demands can lead to exhaustion.
  10. Keeping Up with Trends: Constant need for professional development.