South Carolina MSW Programs
Schools with MSW Programs
Social Work Licensure
Social Work Careers
South Carolina Social Worker Careers with an MSW Degree
South Carolina Social Work Licensure
Table of Contents
- Overview of MSW Education in South Carolina
- CSWE-Accredited MSW Programs in South Carolina
- Online MSW Options for South Carolina Residents
- Advanced Standing MSW Programs
- Admission Requirements and Application Process
- Social Work Licensing Requirements in South Carolina
- Social Worker Salaries in South Carolina (2024 Data)
- How to Choose the Right MSW Program
- Financial Aid and Scholarship Opportunities
- Career Outlook and Employment Opportunities
- Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Answer:
South Carolina offers several CSWE-accredited MSW programs including options at the University of South Carolina, Winthrop University, and Columbia College. These programs provide traditional, online, and advanced standing formats with specializations in clinical practice, community organization, and healthcare social work. Graduates can pursue licensure as Licensed Master Social Workers (LMSW) or Licensed Independent Social Workers (LISW) through the South Carolina Board of Social Work Examiners.
The state’s MSW programs prepare students for professional practice through comprehensive coursework, supervised field placements, and specialized concentrations aligned with South Carolina’s unique social service needs. From addressing rural healthcare disparities to supporting military families near the state’s numerous installations, MSW graduates find diverse opportunities to make meaningful impacts in their communities.
Overview of MSW Education in South Carolina
Master of Social Work education in South Carolina reflects the state’s commitment to developing highly qualified professionals capable of addressing complex social challenges. The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredits programs throughout the state, ensuring graduates meet national standards for professional practice. South Carolina’s MSW programs typically require 60 credit hours for traditional students or 30-39 credit hours for those entering with advanced standing from a BSW program.
The educational landscape encompasses both public and private institutions offering varied program formats to accommodate working professionals, recent graduates, and career changers. Programs emphasize evidence-based practice, cultural competency, and ethical decision-making while providing specialized training in areas particularly relevant to South Carolina’s demographics and social service needs.
Students pursuing MSW degrees in South Carolina benefit from the state’s diverse practice settings, including major healthcare systems in Charleston and Columbia, rural community health centers, school districts serving varied populations, and specialized facilities addressing substance abuse and mental health challenges. These settings provide rich field education opportunities essential for developing professional competencies.
CSWE-Accredited MSW Programs in South Carolina
South Carolina maintains several institutions offering CSWE-accredited MSW programs, each with distinct strengths and specializations. Understanding the unique characteristics of each program helps prospective students identify the best fit for their professional goals and personal circumstances.
| Institution | Location | Program Formats | Specializations | CSWE Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of South Carolina | Columbia | Traditional, Advanced Standing, Part-time | Clinical Practice, Community Organization | Fully Accredited |
| Winthrop University | Rock Hill | Traditional, Advanced Standing, Evening | Empowerment Practice, Clinical Mental Health | Fully Accredited |
| Columbia College | Columbia | Traditional, Part-time, Hybrid | Leadership, Direct Practice | Candidacy |
The University of South Carolina’s College of Social Work stands as the state’s flagship program, offering comprehensive training through its main campus in Columbia with additional program sites strategically located throughout the state. The program emphasizes both micro and macro practice competencies, preparing graduates for diverse roles across the social work spectrum. USC’s extensive alumni network provides valuable connections for field placements and post-graduation employment opportunities.
Winthrop University in Rock Hill delivers a program particularly noted for its empowerment-based approach to social work education. Located near Charlotte, North Carolina, Winthrop serves students from both states and offers evening classes designed for working professionals. The program’s emphasis on cultural diversity and social justice aligns with contemporary social work values while addressing regional service needs.
Additional programs and satellite campuses expand access to MSW education throughout South Carolina, with many institutions offering cohort programs in partnership with community colleges and regional centers. These collaborative arrangements bring graduate social work education to underserved areas of the state, supporting workforce development in communities with critical social service needs.
Online MSW Options for South Carolina Residents
Online MSW programs have transformed accessibility for South Carolina residents seeking advanced social work education while managing professional and personal responsibilities. These programs maintain the same rigorous standards as traditional formats while offering flexibility essential for working professionals, rural residents, and those with caregiving obligations.
South Carolina residents can pursue online CSWE-accredited MSW programs from both in-state and out-of-state institutions. Many programs feature hybrid models combining online coursework with periodic campus intensives, allowing students to benefit from both digital learning convenience and face-to-face interaction with faculty and peers.
Key considerations for online MSW programs include:
- Field Placement Coordination: Programs typically assist with securing local field placements, though students may need to take initiative in identifying potential sites
- Technology Requirements: Reliable internet access and updated computer systems are essential for participating in synchronous sessions and accessing course materials
- State Authorization: Verify that out-of-state programs hold proper authorization to offer degrees to South Carolina residents
- Residency Requirements: Some programs require brief campus visits for orientation, intensives, or skill demonstrations
Online programs particularly benefit South Carolina residents in rural areas where access to traditional campus-based programs may require significant commuting. Counties in the Pee Dee region, Lowcountry, and Upstate areas often have limited local options, making online education a practical pathway to MSW credentials.
Advanced Standing MSW Programs
Advanced standing programs offer accelerated pathways for students holding Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degrees from CSWE-accredited programs. These programs recognize prior undergraduate preparation in social work, allowing qualified students to complete their MSW in approximately one year of full-time study or two years part-time, compared to the traditional two-year format.
South Carolina’s advanced standing programs typically waive foundation year coursework, enabling BSW graduates to proceed directly to concentration year studies. Eligibility requirements generally include:
- BSW from CSWE-accredited program: Degree must be from an institution maintaining CSWE accreditation at the time of graduation
- Minimum GPA requirement: Most programs require a 3.0 or higher undergraduate GPA, with some considering the social work major GPA specifically
- Recency of degree: Some programs require the BSW to be earned within 5-7 years of MSW enrollment
- Field education hours: Documentation of completed BSW field placement hours may be required
For South Carolina BSW holders from institutions like Benedict College, Limestone University, or USC Upstate, advanced standing programs provide cost-effective routes to graduate credentials. The accelerated timeline reduces both tuition expenses and opportunity costs associated with extended time away from full-time employment.
Admission Requirements and Application Process
MSW program admission in South Carolina involves comprehensive evaluation of academic preparation, professional experience, and personal qualities essential for social work practice. While specific requirements vary among institutions, common elements characterize the application process across programs.
Academic Prerequisites:
- Bachelor’s degree from accredited institution (any major acceptable for traditional programs)
- Minimum GPA of 2.75-3.0 (varies by program)
- Liberal arts foundation including courses in social sciences, humanities, and natural sciences
- Statistics or research methods coursework (recommended or required by some programs)
Application Components:
- Completed application form with non-refundable fee ($45-75 typical range)
- Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
- Three professional or academic references addressing applicant’s potential for graduate study and social work practice
- Personal statement (typically 3-5 pages) articulating motivation for social work, relevant experiences, and professional goals
- Resume documenting education, employment, volunteer service, and relevant training
- Criminal background check and child abuse registry clearance (required for field placement eligibility)
Many South Carolina programs have eliminated GRE requirements, recognizing that standardized test scores may not predict success in social work education or practice. Programs instead emphasize holistic review processes considering life experiences, commitment to social justice, and demonstrated capacity for graduate-level work.
Social Work Licensing Requirements in South Carolina
Professional licensure through the South Carolina Board of Social Work Examiners enables MSW graduates to practice independently and bill insurance for clinical services. South Carolina offers multiple licensure levels, each with specific educational and experiential requirements aligned with scope of practice.
| License Type | Education Required | Experience Required | Examination | Scope of Practice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LMSW | MSW from CSWE program | None | ASWB Master’s | Non-clinical practice under supervision |
| LISW | MSW from CSWE program | 2 years supervised clinical experience | ASWB Clinical | Independent clinical practice |
| LISW-CP | MSW from CSWE program | 2 years post-LISW experience | Additional requirements | Clinical practice with private practice authorization |
The Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) credential represents entry-level licensure for MSW graduates. This license permits practice in agency settings under appropriate supervision while accumulating hours toward advanced licensure. LMSW holders work in diverse settings including hospitals, schools, community mental health centers, and social service agencies.
The Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) credential authorizes independent clinical practice following completion of 2,000-4,000 hours of supervised clinical experience over a minimum two-year period. LISW holders can diagnose mental health conditions, develop treatment plans, and provide psychotherapy services. Supervision must be provided by an LISW or other qualified mental health professional approved by the board.
South Carolina participates in the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) licensure compact, potentially facilitating license portability for social workers relocating between participating states. This interstate agreement supports workforce mobility while maintaining professional standards across jurisdictions.
Social Worker Salaries in South Carolina (2024 Data)
Social work compensation in South Carolina reflects various factors including education level, licensure status, practice setting, geographic location, and years of experience. According to 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, the state’s social workers earn competitive salaries with significant variation across specializations and metropolitan areas.
Statewide Salary Data by Specialization
| Specialization | Entry Level (10th %ile) | Median Salary | Experienced (90th %ile) | Employment Outlook |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Healthcare Social Workers | $42,500 | $61,200 | $94,800 | Growing – Major hospital systems expanding |
| Child, Family, and School | $35,400 | $45,800 | $73,200 | Stable – Consistent school district needs |
| Mental Health and Substance Abuse | $32,100 | $43,200 | $68,500 | High demand – Opioid crisis response |
| All Other Social Workers | $44,300 | $78,900 | $112,400 | Variable by specialization |
Metropolitan Area Salary Comparisons
Geographic location significantly influences social work compensation within South Carolina, with metropolitan areas generally offering higher salaries to offset increased living costs and compete for qualified professionals.
- Charleston-North Charleston MSA: $74,800 median for all social workers, driven by major healthcare systems including Medical University of South Carolina and Roper St. Francis Healthcare
- Columbia MSA: $81,500 median, benefiting from state government positions, Prisma Health facilities, and University of South Carolina affiliations
- Greenville-Anderson-Mauldin MSA: $76,200 median, supported by Prisma Health Upstate and expanding behavioral health services
- Myrtle Beach-Conway MSA: $83,100 median, reflecting coastal tourism economy and retirement community service needs
Rural areas typically offer lower base salaries but may provide additional incentives including loan forgiveness programs, housing assistance, or signing bonuses to attract MSW-prepared professionals. Federal programs like the National Health Service Corps offer substantial loan repayment for social workers serving in designated Health Professional Shortage Areas throughout South Carolina.
How to Choose the Right MSW Program
Selecting an appropriate MSW program requires careful evaluation of multiple factors aligned with individual career objectives, learning preferences, and life circumstances. South Carolina’s diverse program offerings enable prospective students to identify options matching their unique needs and professional aspirations.
Program Format Considerations:
Traditional full-time programs suit recent graduates and those able to prioritize education over employment. These intensive formats typically require 15-20 hours weekly in classroom instruction plus 16-24 hours of field placement during concentration year. The immersive experience facilitates deep learning and strong peer connections but demands significant schedule flexibility.
Part-time and evening programs accommodate working professionals maintaining employment while pursuing graduate education. Extended timelines (3-4 years typical) allow for balanced progression through coursework while managing professional and personal responsibilities. These formats particularly benefit those with employer tuition assistance requiring continued employment.
Hybrid and online formats maximize flexibility through asynchronous learning combined with periodic synchronous sessions or campus intensives. These programs serve rural residents, military families subject to relocation, and those with caregiving responsibilities preventing regular campus attendance.
Specialization and Concentration Alignment:
Programs offer varied concentrations reflecting different practice approaches and population focuses. Clinical or direct practice concentrations prepare students for therapeutic roles with individuals, families, and small groups. Macro or indirect practice concentrations emphasize community organization, policy development, and administration. Some programs offer specialized tracks in military social work, gerontology, or school social work aligned with state workforce needs.
Field education opportunities significantly influence program selection. Programs with established relationships in desired practice areas facilitate relevant placement experiences essential for professional development and post-graduation employment. Consider geographic distribution of field sites, particularly for specialized interests requiring placements in specific settings.
Financial Aid and Scholarship Opportunities
Financing MSW education requires strategic planning to minimize debt while accessing quality training. South Carolina students benefit from various funding sources including federal programs, state initiatives, institutional aid, and private scholarships specifically supporting social work education.
Federal Financial Aid Programs:
- Federal Direct Loans (Stafford and Graduate PLUS) provide primary financing for many graduate students
- Federal Work-Study positions offer part-time employment in social service settings
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) forgives remaining federal loan balances after 120 qualifying payments while working for eligible employers
State and Regional Opportunities:
- South Carolina National Guard members may qualify for state tuition assistance supplementing federal military education benefits
- The South Carolina Commission on Higher Education administers need-based grant programs for state residents
- Regional workforce development boards occasionally fund social work education for professionals serving high-need communities
Institutional and Private Scholarships:
MSW programs typically offer merit-based and need-based scholarships through institutional funds and donor contributions. The NASW Foundation provides multiple scholarship opportunities for students demonstrating commitment to particular practice areas or serving specific populations. Professional organizations like the Council on Social Work Education and Association of Oncology Social Work offer specialized funding for students pursuing relevant concentrations.
Graduate assistantships provide tuition remission and stipends in exchange for research or teaching support. These competitive positions offer valuable experience while reducing educational costs. Field placements in certain agencies may include stipends, particularly those funded through Title IV-E child welfare training programs or behavioral health workforce initiatives.
Career Outlook and Employment Opportunities
South Carolina’s growing population and evolving demographics create sustained demand for MSW-prepared social workers across multiple sectors. The state’s aging population, expanding healthcare infrastructure, and persistent social challenges ensure robust employment opportunities for qualified professionals.
High-Demand Practice Areas:
Healthcare social work represents the fastest-growing sector, driven by hospital expansions, accountable care organizations, and integrated behavioral health models. Major health systems including Prisma Health, MUSC Health, and McLeod Health consistently recruit MSW graduates for positions in emergency departments, oncology units, transplant programs, and primary care settings.
School social work positions expand as districts recognize connections between social-emotional support and academic achievement. South Carolina’s 81 school districts employ MSW-level practitioners addressing attendance issues, behavioral challenges, family engagement, and crisis intervention. Recent legislative initiatives supporting school mental health create additional opportunities for clinical social workers in educational settings.
Substance abuse and mental health services experience unprecedented demand following the opioid epidemic and increased awareness of behavioral health needs. Community mental health centers, private practices, and residential treatment facilities seek MSW-prepared clinicians capable of providing evidence-based interventions for diverse populations.
Emerging Opportunities:
- Telehealth and Digital Services: Virtual therapy platforms and online intervention programs create location-independent practice opportunities
- Integrated Primary Care: Behavioral health integration in primary care settings increases demand for medical social workers
- Criminal Justice Reform: Diversion programs and reentry services expand roles for forensic social workers
- Disaster Response: Climate-related events and emergency preparedness create specialized positions in crisis intervention
Veterans Affairs medical centers in Columbia, Charleston, and Greenville maintain ongoing recruitment for social workers serving military populations. The state’s multiple military installations including Fort Jackson, Shaw Air Force Base, and Parris Island create unique practice opportunities for those interested in military and veteran services.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many CSWE-accredited MSW programs are available in South Carolina?
South Carolina currently has two CSWE-accredited MSW programs: the University of South Carolina in Columbia and Winthrop University in Rock Hill. Both programs offer various formats including traditional, part-time, and advanced standing options. Winthrop also offers a fully online MSW program. Note that Limestone University’s MSW program was accredited from 2020-2025 and is now listed by CSWE as formerly accredited.
Can I complete an MSW entirely online while living in South Carolina?
Yes, Winthrop University offers a fully online MSW program for South Carolina residents. Additionally, South Carolina residents can pursue online MSW programs from out-of-state CSWE-accredited institutions that are authorized to operate in South Carolina. Online programs maintain the same academic standards and field education requirements as campus-based programs. Students typically arrange local field placements with program support.
What’s the difference between LISW-CP and LISW-AP licensure in South Carolina?
The LISW-CP (Licensed Independent Social Worker-Clinical Practice) credential allows independent clinical practice including diagnosis and psychotherapy, requiring 3,000 supervised clinical hours over at least two years post-MSW and passing the ASWB Clinical examination. The LISW-AP (Licensed Independent Social Worker-Advanced Practice) is for advanced non-clinical practice in areas like administration and policy, requiring 3,000 supervised hours over at least two years post-MSW and passing the ASWB Advanced Generalist examination. Both require an MSW from a CSWE-accredited program.
How long does it take to complete an MSW program in South Carolina?
Traditional MSW programs require two years of full-time study (60 credit hours) or 3-4 years part-time. Students with BSW degrees from CSWE-accredited programs may qualify for advanced standing, completing their MSW in one year full-time or two years part-time (30-39 credit hours). Program duration varies based on course load, field placement scheduling, and individual program structure.
What financial aid options exist specifically for South Carolina social work students?
South Carolina social work students access multiple funding sources including federal loans and grants, state need-based aid programs, institutional scholarships from their MSW programs, and specialized opportunities like Title IV-E child welfare stipends. The National Health Service Corps offers substantial loan repayment for graduates working in underserved South Carolina communities. Many employers, particularly healthcare systems and government agencies, provide tuition assistance for employees pursuing MSW degrees.
2023 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and employment figures for Child, Family, and School Social Workers, Healthcare Social Workers, Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers, and Social Workers, All Other reflect national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed August 2025.
