Education · 1 of 4
The path
In most of Canada you become a teacher first, teach for a while, then move into guidance.
- 1
High school
Grades 11 and 12
Social sciences, psychology and English. Peer mentoring or a help line volunteer role is worth more than any course.
- 2
Bachelor's degree
3 to 4 years
Psychology, sociology and social work are the natural fits, but any degree works if you also qualify to teach a subject.
- 3
Bachelor of Education (B.Ed)
1 to 2 years
Four semesters in Ontario, 1 to 2 years elsewhere. Secondary stream, since guidance lives in high schools.
- 4
Teach for a year or more
1 to 3 years
Ontario requires at least one school year of classroom teaching before you can take the second part of the guidance qualification.
- 5
Guidance and career education qualification
1 to 3 years, part time
A three-part course sequence. Part 1 needs only your teaching certificate. The Specialist needs two years of teaching, including a year in guidance.