2026 What Degree Do You Need To Be a Social Worker: Education Requirements in South Carolina

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Many aspiring social workers in South Carolina often ask what degree is required to enter this demanding profession. With nearly 15% of the state’s population experiencing mental health challenges, the demand for qualified social workers continues to rise. This article, prepared by career planning experts, will guide readers through the educational pathways necessary to become a licensed social worker in South Carolina.

In South Carolina, a BSW is required for entry-level licensure, while an MSW with supervised experience is needed for independent practice.
Programs include core courses in policy, practice, research, and fieldwork, with electives in specialized areas.
Degree completion takes about four years for a BSW, two for an MSW, and three to five for doctoral study.

What is the minimum degree required to become a licensed social worker in South Carolina?
What courses are covered in a social work degree program in South Carolina?
How long does it take to complete a social work degree program in South Carolina?
How much does a social work degree cost in South Carolina?
What degrees are required for different social work specializations in South Carolina?
What financial aid options are available to social work students in South Carolina?
What are the alternative pathways to become a social worker in South Carolina?
Are online social work degrees recognized in South Carolina?
How Do I Navigate the Social Work Licensing Process in South Carolina?
What organizations accredit social work degree programs in South Carolina?
What are the top institutions offering social work degree programs in South Carolina?
What are the career prospects and salary trends for social workers in South Carolina?

To become a licensed social worker in South Carolina, candidates must complete specific educational steps that correspond with the type of license they seek. The minimum requirement begins at the bachelor’s level, with opportunities to advance through graduate study and supervised practice. Below are the recognized degree pathways for social work licensure in the state:

Licensed Bachelor’s Social Worker (LBSW): Requires a bachelor’s degree in social work from an accredited institution. This entry-level credential allows graduates to practice general social work under state licensure.
Licensed Master’s Social Worker (LMSW): Requires a master’s degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program. This level qualifies professionals for broader roles in social services and prepares them for advanced supervision or leadership.
Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW): Requires a master’s degree plus supervised post-graduate experience. This represents the highest tier of licensure in South Carolina, allowing advanced or clinical practice with greater independence.

While many focus on the bachelor’s degree in social work South Carolina as the entry point, it is important to consider the expanding roles enabled by higher education. For those wondering what can you do with an MSW, a master’s degree not only enhances career possibilities but also qualifies for licensure that supports independent practice, shaping the profession’s future in meaningful ways.

Selecting the right courses in a social work degree ensures students gain the knowledge and professional readiness to serve diverse communities. Programs in South Carolina emphasize both theoretical foundations and practical application to prepare graduates for licensure and practice. Below are the common courses found in South Carolina social work programs:

Introduction to Social Work: Offers an overview of the profession, including history, values, and ethical practice.
Human Behavior and the Social Environment: Examines development across the lifespan with attention to culture, diversity, and justice.
Practice with Individuals, Families, and Groups: Focuses on assessment and intervention techniques for micro and mezzo levels.
Practice with Organizations and Communities: Develops skills in advocacy, policy work, and large-scale community engagement.
Social Welfare Policy and Services: Reviews how laws and policies affect populations and explores policy reform strategies.
Research Methods in Social Work: Teaches qualitative and quantitative approaches to evidence-based evaluation.
Field Education or Internship: Provides supervised experience in agencies, with programs requiring extensive internship hours.
Specialized Electives: Enables concentration in fields such as child welfare, mental health, or substance abuse.

The chart below presents the distribution of full-time social work faculty members by academic rank, highlighting how positions are structured across the profession.

The time it takes to complete a social work degree in South Carolina depends on the program level, study format, and individual circumstances. Program structure, fieldwork requirements, and enrollment status all influence the overall duration. Below are the typical completion timelines and considerations that shape a student’s path:

Bachelor of Social Work (BSW): Usually takes four years of full-time study, including general education courses, social work theory, and supervised fieldwork.
Master of Social Work (MSW): Standard programs require two years full-time or three years part-time, while advanced standing allows qualified BSW graduates to finish in one year.
Doctor of Social Work (DSW): Typically requires three to four years for full-time study, extending to five or more years with part-time enrollment.
PhD in Social Work: Often completed in four to five years full-time, but may extend beyond six years part-time due to intensive research and dissertation work.
Enrollment Status: Part-time enrollment can nearly double program length depending on course load and university policies.
Fieldwork Requirements: Internships and community placements may lengthen completion time but are essential for licensure readiness.
Advanced Standing: Significantly shortens MSW completion for students holding accredited BSW degrees.
Program Formats: Online and hybrid options provide flexibility but may influence pacing depending on student schedules and commitments.

The cost of pursuing a social work degree in South Carolina depends on the degree level, institution type, and residency status. For a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), public universities typically charge $10,000 to $14,000 annually for in-state students, while out-of-state tuition can rise to $25,000–$32,000. Private colleges, on the other hand, often range from $30,000 to $40,000 per year but may offset expenses through scholarships or financial aid. Master of Social Work (MSW) programs generally cost $12,000 to $16,000 yearly for in-state students, with out-of-state rates reaching up to $35,000. Online MSW programs may follow similar or slightly higher pricing models.

At the doctoral level, a Doctor of Social Work (DSW) or PhD typically costs $15,000 to $22,000 annually for residents, and $30,000 to $40,000 for non-residents. Many PhD candidates benefit from tuition waivers or assistantships that reduce overall expenses. Public universities tend to offer lower rates for residents, while private schools usually charge flat tuition regardless of residency. Increasingly, online programs also apply flat-rate tuition structures, making them particularly advantageous for students living outside South Carolina.

For those evaluating the financial impact of social work education, understanding these variations helps optimize investments while considering earning potential reflected in the LCSW salary within South Carolina’s robust social work market.

Social workers earn a median salary of $61,330 per year as of 2024.

Social work in South Carolina encompasses multiple specializations, each requiring distinct academic preparation to align with client needs and professional responsibilities. Understanding these educational pathways clarifies the minimum degree required for entry and advancement in the field. Below are the key social work specializations and their degree requirements:

Clinical Social Work: Requires a master’s degree in social work (MSW) from a CSWE-accredited institution, along with at least 3,000 hours of supervised experience and passing the ASWB Clinical exam.
School Social Work: Typically begins with a bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW), though an MSW is often needed for counseling, intervention, and state-level certification.
Healthcare Social Work: Generally requires an MSW for most roles, particularly clinical positions that demand LISW-CP licensure; some entry-level jobs accept a BSW.
Child and Family Social Services: A BSW is the minimum requirement for case management and child welfare, with 400 supervised fieldwork hours; an MSW is preferred for advanced or clinical positions.
Advanced Generalist Social Work: Necessitates an MSW, which equips graduates for leadership and policy roles with 900 supervised fieldwork hours and eligibility for advanced licenses such as LMSW or LISW-AP.

Financial aid opportunities in South Carolina help students manage tuition costs and related expenses while pursuing a social work degree. These resources make higher education more accessible and allow aspiring professionals to focus on training for impactful careers. Below are the main financial aid options available to social work students in the state:

Federal Grants: Programs such as the Pell Grant and FSEOG provide non-repayable aid to eligible undergraduate and some graduate students who demonstrate financial need.
South Carolina State Scholarships and Grants: Options like the South Carolina Need-Based Grant support residents attending approved institutions, requiring both financial need and a minimum 2.0 GPA.
Institutional Scholarships and Fellowships: Universities, including the University of South Carolina, award aid for BSW and MSW students pursuing areas like child welfare or social justice.
Graduate and Research Assistantships: MSW students may receive stipends and tuition support while gaining academic or research experience.
Child Welfare BSW Scholars Tuition Assistance: Provides up to $5,000 per semester plus textbook reimbursement for students committing to work with the Department of Social Services.
Work-Study Programs: Federal or institutional programs enable students to earn income through part-time employment while studying.
Student Loans: Federal Direct and Graduate PLUS loans remain available, offering repayment flexibility designed to align with public service careers.
Professional Organization Scholarships: Groups such as the National Association of Social Workers offer awards to students showing leadership and dedication to community service.

Exploring available financial aid for social work students in South Carolina is essential to accessing scholarships for BSW and MSW programs that can transform a career path. For those researching options, discovering online MSW programs affordable can provide flexible and cost-effective pathways to enter this vital profession.

Entering the field of social work in South Carolina does not always require beginning with a traditional Bachelor of Social Work (BSW). Individuals from diverse academic and professional backgrounds can pursue alternative pathways that recognize transferable skills and provide structured options toward licensure. Below are the common routes available:

Traditional MSW for Non-BSW Graduates: Individuals with unrelated bachelor’s degrees may complete a two-year Master of Social Work program to gain the required foundation and professional skills.
Advanced Standing MSW: Students who already hold a BSW from an accredited program may complete their MSW in just one year, providing a faster route to advanced practice.
Leveraging Related Degrees: Degrees in psychology, sociology, or human services can strengthen MSW applications and provide a solid background in behavioral science.
Post-Bachelor’s Certificate or Bridge Programs: These programs prepare non-BSW graduates by covering essential social work prerequisites before they enter graduate study.
State-Specific Alternative Certification: South Carolina offers provisional licensure routes for those already working in human services, which require supervised practice and additional training.

The chart below shows BSW program enrollment in 2022–23 by institution type, offering insight into how student participation differs across public and private colleges.

Online social work degrees can be recognized in South Carolina if they meet accreditation and state licensing standards. While the delivery method does not reduce their value, students must ensure the program is properly accredited and provides the necessary fieldwork opportunities for licensure. Below are the key factors to consider:

Council on Social Work Education Accreditation: Only programs accredited by CSWE are recognized for licensure eligibility, whether completed online or on campus.
State Licensing Board Compliance: South Carolina requires that coursework and field education meet its standards, which online programs must demonstrate clearly.
Fieldwork and Practicum Requirements: Licensure demands supervised practice; online programs must offer local or hybrid placements that comply with state regulations.
Out-of-State Online Options: While South Carolina universities do not provide fully online accredited BSW or MSW programs, many out-of-state CSWE-accredited online programs are available and accepted.
Employer Recognition: Over 80% of employers accept accredited online social work degrees, emphasizing accreditation and skills rather than delivery format.

How Do I Navigate the Social Work Licensing Process in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, obtaining a social work license involves verifying eligibility based on educational credentials, completing required supervised practice hours, and fulfilling state-specific examinations. Applicants must submit documentation that reflects both academic and field experience standards set by the South Carolina Board of Social Work Examiners. Detailed preparation for the licensing exam and understanding continuing education requirements are essential steps to maintain professional standards. For insights on accelerating related counseling credentials, consider the fastest way to become a counselor in South Carolina.

Accreditation is essential in establishing the credibility of social work education, directly shaping graduates’ eligibility for licensure and professional recognition. In South Carolina, specific accrediting bodies safeguard the quality of programs and ensure students receive an education aligned with national standards. Without proper accreditation, a degree may not meet licensure requirements or employer expectations. Below are the primary organizations responsible for accrediting social work degree programs in South Carolina:

Council on Social Work Education (CSWE): This is the national accrediting authority for BSW and MSW programs. Only graduates from CSWE-accredited programs are eligible for state licensure. The council’s standards ensure competency-based education that prepares students for effective practice.
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC): This regional accreditor evaluates entire institutions, confirming academic integrity, credit transferability, and institutional accountability across South Carolina.
South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR): While not an educational accreditor, this agency enforces licensing laws that require CSWE-accredited degrees, emphasizing the vital link between accreditation and the authority to practice.

For those exploring pathways into social work, including fastest online MSW programs, selecting a CSWE accredited social work program in South Carolina is a decisive step that extends beyond convenience to foundational professional credibility.

Approximately 95% of licensed social workers are employed full-time.

Selecting the right institution is critical for building a foundation in social work that meets both academic and licensure standards. South Carolina offers several accredited programs that equip students with the practical skills and professional readiness needed to succeed in the field. Below are the leading institutions recognized for their social work education:

University of South Carolina (Columbia): Home to the state’s largest MSW program and the only PhD in social work, USC provides extensive field placements, diverse concentrations, and national recognition.
Winthrop University: Offers flexible on-campus and online MSW programs with a strong emphasis on empowerment practice, preparing graduates to serve marginalized and vulnerable populations.
Limestone University: Provides a fully online CSWE-accredited MSW that prepares students for advanced generalist practice in mental health, addressing critical workforce shortages statewide.
South Carolina State University: Features a CSWE-accredited BSW program with a strong experiential learning focus, mentorship opportunities, and scholarships for aspiring social workers.
Columbia College: Delivers a supportive learning environment with a CSWE-accredited BSW designed for broad-based entry-level roles and preparation for graduate-level study.

For those aiming even higher, considering an online PhD social work program can further distinguish your expertise in this growing field, especially given South Carolina's focus on mental health and child/family services. Choosing from the best social work programs in South Carolina means engaging with accredited social work schools in South Carolina that equip graduates with the practical and academic excellence necessary to make a meaningful impact.

Earning my social work degree gave me the skills to understand real community needs in South Carolina. Learning about policies and hands-on practice helped me feel prepared. Working now in schools, I see how much support truly matters for children. Tyrone

My degree in social work provided more than classes—it gave me confidence to work directly with families across South Carolina. The strong focus on fieldwork showed me how to apply knowledge. I’m proud to see my clients growing stronger. Latisha

Completing my social work studies helped me see the importance of cultural awareness and resources for rural areas. South Carolina communities face many challenges, but I feel prepared to serve with practical tools and compassion. My career feels purposeful every day. Diego

What are the career prospects and salary trends for social workers in South Carolina?

Social work professionals in South Carolina are positioned in a dynamic and evolving job market. Data indicates steady demand in areas such as healthcare, mental health services, child welfare, and community development. Employers in public, private, and non-profit sectors seeking experienced professionals contribute to competitive salary ranges that reflect both educational background and years of experience. Regional needs and specialized roles further influence compensation, with metropolitan areas often offering higher benchmarks than rural communities. For a comprehensive guide on entering and advancing within the field, explore how to become a social worker in South Carolina.

References

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Careers in Psychology. (n.d.). Becoming a social worker in South Carolina: License, certification, careers. Retrieved from Careers in Psychology
Florida State University Online MSW. (n.d.). Become a social worker in South Carolina. Retrieved from FSU Online
Psychology.org. (n.d.). South Carolina social work license requirements. Retrieved from Psychology.org
Social Work Degree Center. (n.d.). Become a social worker in South Carolina – Social Work Education Center. Retrieved from Social Work Degree Center
Social Work License Map. (n.d.). How to become a social worker in South Carolina. Retrieved from Social Work License Map
South Carolina Department of Social Services. (2023). SCDSS announces child welfare BSW scholars tuition assistance program. Retrieved from SCDSS
South Carolina Labor, Licensing and Regulation Board. (n.d.). SCLLR licensure. Retrieved from SCLLR
University of South Carolina Graduate School. (n.d.). Social work - MSW - Graduate School. Retrieved from University of South Carolina
Tullahoma Talk. (2019). Hello! Just wondering if any of yall could help me with a question [Facebook post]. Retrieved from Facebook

Can you become a social worker in South Carolina without a degree in social work?

Yes, but only in limited roles. Licensure as a social worker in South Carolina requires a BSW or MSW. However, individuals with related degrees may work in non-licensed social service positions. To practice clinical or licensed social work, an accredited social work degree and state licensure are mandatory for meeting ethical and professional standards.

Do you need a doctorate to become a clinical social worker in South Carolina?

No, a doctorate is not required. To become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in South Carolina, you need a master’s degree in social work (MSW) from an accredited program plus supervised clinical experience. A doctorate (DSW or PhD) is optional, typically pursued for careers in research, teaching, or leadership, but not required for clinical practice.

Do community colleges in South Carolina offer social work degrees?

No, community colleges in South Carolina do not award bachelor’s degrees in social work. Instead, they offer associate degrees in related fields, such as human services. These programs provide a foundation for transferring to universities where students can pursue a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), the minimum degree required for licensure and professional social work practice.

What are the admission requirements for a BSW degree in South Carolina?

Admission to a BSW program in South Carolina generally requires a high school diploma or GED, prerequisite courses, and a minimum GPA. Applicants may also need recommendation letters, a personal statement, or an interview. Some programs request background checks or value volunteer service. Meeting these requirements prepares students for the academic and fieldwork rigor of social work education.