Social Work License Requirements in South Carolina
Use this guide to learn more about social work licensure in South Carolina, including reciprocity, renewal, and salary potential.
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Social workers make a difference in the lives of people across the state of South Carolina in a variety of meaningful ways.
Our guide explores social work licensure in South Carolina, including renewal requirements, average salaries in the state, and social work organizations that support South Carolina social workers.
South Carolina Social Work Licensure Requirements
There are several levels of social work licensure in South Carolina, including clinical licenses and bachelor’s and master’ s-level licensure for general practice. The Board of Social Work Examiners regulates social work licenses in South Carolina. We explore these options below.
How Long Does it Take to Become a Social Worker in South Carolina?
It can take 4-10 years to become a social worker in South Carolina, depending on your educational background and career aspirations. BSW degrees typically take four years of full-time study, while MSWs usually take two years of full-time enrollment. If you already have a BSW, you may be eligible for advanced standing in your MSW program, which can let you complete your graduate degree in just one year.
If you pursue clinical social work or advanced practice generalist licensure, then plan for an additional 2-4 years of work to obtain the necessary supervised hours after completing your graduate degree. Pursuing a doctorate can extend this timeline significantly.
Out-of-State Licensing Reciprocity in South Carolina
South Carolina does not have licensing reciprocity established with any other states. However, applications are accepted from out-of-state social workers for the equivalent level of licensure they currently hold. Professionals relocating to the state who wish to practice in person in South Carolina can apply for their current level of licensure and complete the out-of-state licensure verification form in support of their application.
Clinical social workers who hold an active out-of-state license in good standing can join the Telehealth Registrant List to provide telehealth services to clients in South Carolina.
How to Renew a Social Work License in South Carolina
Social work licenses in South Carolina require renewal on a two-year cycle that ends on December 31 of every even year. Licensees must complete 40 hours of continuing education during each renewal period, and at least 20 of these hours must be provided by a professional with a degree in social work.
In South Carolina, continuing education credits must be tracked using CE Broker. Social workers can go to the South Carolina Board of Social Work Examiners website to complete the renewal application process.
Legislation is pending for South Carolina to become a member of the multistate Social Work Licensure Compact, which would allow for social workers licensed in the state to apply for a multistate license. This multistate license would authorize them to practice in all other compact member states.
Salary Expectations for Social Workers in South Carolina
Social worker salaries vary depending on practice setting, licensure level, and years of experience. While social workers make less on average in South Carolina than nationwide, the field of social work is growing at a faster-than-average rate: Projections Central data reveals that social work jobs in the state are projected to grow 10%-21.5% from 2022 to 2032.
| Occupation | Average Hourly Salary | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Child, Family, and School Social Workers | $23.73 | $49,360 |
| Healthcare Social Workers | $31.73 | $66,000 |
| Mental Health and Substance Use Social Workers | $21.34 | $44,380 |
| Social Workers, All Other | $40.73 | $84,720 |
Professional Organizations for Social Workers in South Carolina
- National Association of Social Workers: The state chapter of the National Association of Social Workers offers training and networking opportunities. This organization also provides state-level advocacy for professionals in the field.
- South Carolina Society for Clinical Social Work: This nonprofit professional organization is for clinical social workers practicing in South Carolina. It offers education, mentorship, and advocacy.
- South Carolina Association of School Social Workers: This organization promotes the school social work profession within the educational system and provides continuing education and professional conferences for its members.
Frequently Asked Questions About Social Work Licensure
In South Carolina, you can apply for licensure at the bachelor’s (LBSW) and graduate levels (LMSW). You can also earn supervised hours to qualify for clinical licensure (LISW-CP) or advanced practice licensure (LISW-AP).
