How to Become a Social Worker in South Carolina
South Carolina offers three social work license levels: LBSW (requires a BSW degree), LMSW (requires an MSW), and LISW (requires an MSW plus 3,000 supervised hours). All require passing an ASWB exam. The process takes 4-10 years, depending on your target license level, and median salaries range from $41,580 to $91,940 annually, depending on specialization.
South Carolina social workers provide essential services to communities across the state, from counseling individuals with mental health challenges to coordinating social services and conducting research. Whether you're interested in clinical practice, school social work, healthcare settings, or community program administration, understanding the state's licensing requirements is your first step toward a rewarding career.
The South Carolina State Board of Social Work Examiners offers three distinct levels of licensure, each designed to match your education and career goals. From the entry-level Licensed Bachelor's Social Worker (LBSW) to the advanced Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW), this guide walks you through every requirement, timeline, and cost involved in becoming a licensed social worker in South Carolina.
Table of Contents
- Three License Levels Overview
- Educational Requirements
- LBSW Requirements in South Carolina
- LMSW Requirements in South Carolina
- LISW Requirements in South Carolina
- Salary and Career Outlook
- Timeline to Licensure
- Costs and Fees
- The Importance of CSWE Accreditation
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Key Takeaways
Three License Levels Overview
South Carolina structures its social work profession into three progressive license levels. Each builds upon the previous one, expanding your scope of practice and career opportunities:
- Licensed Bachelor's Social Worker (LBSW) - Entry-level license for BSW graduates who perform basic case management and administrative duties
- Licensed Master's Social Worker (LMSW) - Advanced practice license for MSW graduates working in case management, program coordination, and non-clinical roles
- Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) - The highest level with two specializations: LISW-AP (Advanced Practice) for administrative leadership roles and LISW-CP (Clinical Practice) for independent clinical work ,including diagnosis and psychotherapy
| License Type | Education Required | Supervised Experience | ASWB Exam | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Licensed Bachelor's Social Worker (LBSW) | Bachelor's Degree in Social Work (BSW) | None required before licensure | Bachelor Level | $41,580 - $53,900 |
| Licensed Master's Social Worker (LMSW) | Master's Degree in Social Work (MSW) | None required before licensure | Master Level | $53,900 - $65,760 |
| Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW-AP or LISW-CP) | Master's Degree in Social Work (MSW) with specialized coursework | 3,000 post-degree hours (2-4 years) | Advanced Generalist or Clinical Level | $65,760 - $91,940 |
Educational Requirements for South Carolina Social Workers
Your educational foundation determines which license levels you can pursue. South Carolina requires all social work degrees to be awarded by programs accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). This accreditation ensures your education meets national standards and prepares you for licensure.
If you're starting your career, a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) qualifies you for the LBSW license and provides direct entry into MSW programs. Many students complete their BSW in four years through traditional on-campus programs, though online and hybrid options are increasingly available. For advanced practice and clinical work, you'll need a Master of Social Work (MSW), which typically requires two years of full-time study beyond your bachelor's degree.
South Carolina offers several social work degrees through both public and private universities. When selecting a program, verify CSWE accreditation status, review the curriculum to ensure it meets South Carolina's specific coursework requirements, and consider whether the program offers concentrations aligned with your career goals.
LBSW Requirements in South Carolina
The Licensed Bachelor's Social Worker (LBSW) is your entry point into South Carolina's social work profession. This license qualifies you to work in case management, community outreach, social services administration, and various support roles under appropriate supervision. Many social workers begin their careers at this level while pursuing their MSW degree.
Education Requirements for LBSW
You must hold a bachelor's degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited institution. Psychology, sociology, or other related degrees don't qualify for social work licensure in South Carolina. The BSW curriculum includes coursework in human behavior, social welfare policy, research methods, and extensive field placement hours.
Work and Supervision Requirements
South Carolina doesn't require supervised work experience before obtaining your LBSW. You can apply for licensure immediately after graduation. You will need employment as a social worker to maintain your license, but this doesn't require supervision from a licensed social worker for LBSW status.
ASWB Bachelor Exam
All LBSW applicants must pass the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) bachelor-level examination. This 170-question test covers social work practice with individuals, couples, families, groups, and communities. The state board must approve you to take the exam, and they'll help you register once your application is processed.
Application Package for LBSW
Submit these documents to the South Carolina State Board of Social Work Examiners:
- Completed application form with required fees
- Official academic transcripts showing BSW degree completion
- Criminal background check results
- Legal photo identification (driver's license or state ID)
- Social security card copy
- Verification of lawful United States residence
- ASWB bachelor exam scores (sent directly from ASWB)
Timeline for LBSW
From start to finish, expect about four years to complete your BSW and obtain licensure. Application processing typically takes 4-8 weeks after the board receives your complete application and exam scores. Most graduates take the ASWB exam within 2-3 months of graduation.
LMSW Requirements in South Carolina
The Licensed Master's Social Worker (LMSW) designation represents the advanced practice level for social workers who aren't pursuing clinical licensure. This license qualifies you for program management, advanced case management, policy development, community organizing, and supervisory positions. You can work independently in non-clinical settings and supervise LBSW-level workers.
Education Requirements for LMSW
You need a master's degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program. MSW programs typically require two years of full-time study (or 3-4 years part-time) and include advanced coursework in your chosen concentration, research methods, and extensive field education totaling 900+ hours.
Work and Supervision Requirements
Like the LBSW, the LMSW doesn't require supervised work experience before licensure. You must be employed as a social worker, but you can apply for your LMSW immediately after completing your MSW degree and passing the required exam.
ASWB Master Exam
The ASWB master-level examination tests your knowledge of advanced generalist practice. This 170-question exam covers assessment, intervention, evaluation, and professional relationships across all system levels. The content is significantly more advanced than the bachelor-level exam, reflecting graduate-level competencies.
Application Package for LMSW
Your LMSW application includes the same components as the LBSW application, but with graduate transcripts instead:
- Completed application form with required fees
- Official transcripts showing MSW degree from a CSWE-accredited program
- Criminal background check results
- Legal photo identification
- Social security card copy
- Verification of lawful residence
- ASWB master exam scores
Timeline for LMSW
From starting your BSW to obtaining LMSW licensure, it takes about 6 years. That includes four years for your BSW, two years for your MSW, and 2-3 months for exam preparation and application processing. Some students enter MSW programs with bachelor's degrees in other fields, which may add prerequisite coursework to their timeline.
Career Opportunities with LMSW
LMSWs work in diverse settings, including hospitals, schools, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private companies. Typical roles include program director, case management supervisor, policy analyst, grant writer, and community organizer. The LMSW provides a solid foundation if you later decide to pursue LISW-CP for clinical work.
LISW Requirements in South Carolina
The Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) represents the highest level of social work practice in South Carolina. This license is divided into two distinct specializations based on your career goals and training focus.
Two LISW Specializations
LISW-AP (Advanced Practice) prepares you for administrative and leadership roles. LISW-AP holders typically work as department heads, executive directors, policy experts, consultants, or licensing board members. They may oversee community centers, homeless shelters, social service agencies, or work in advanced program development and evaluation.
LISW-CP (Clinical Practice) qualifies you for independent clinical social work, including psychotherapy, diagnosis of mental health conditions, treatment planning, and clinical supervision. LISW-CP holders can establish private practices, work as lead clinicians in healthcare settings, or provide specialized therapeutic services. This designation is equivalent to clinical licenses in other mental health professions.
Prior Licensure Requirement
You must hold an active LMSW license before applying for either LISW specialization. This ensures you have both the educational foundation and state-approved practice status before pursuing independent licensure.
Education Requirements for LISW
Beyond your MSW degree, South Carolina requires specific advanced coursework. Your graduate program must have included at least 45 semester hours in psychopathology and 45 semester hours in the diagnosis of psychosocial disorders. If you're pursuing LISW-AP, you need 90 semester hours of advanced practice coursework focused on organizations and communities.
Many MSW programs build these requirements into their clinical or macro practice concentrations. If your program didn't include all the required coursework, you can complete it through continuing education or additional graduate courses before applying.
Supervised Work Experience: The 3,000-Hour Requirement
This is the most substantial requirement for LISW licensure. You must complete 3,000 hours of post-MSW supervised work experience. Here's how it breaks down:
- Total hours: 3,000 hours of social work practice in your chosen specialization
- Timeframe: Between two and four years to complete (no more than 40 hours per week counted)
- Supervision: Minimum 100 hours of face-to-face supervision
- Individual supervision: At least 50 of those 100 hours must be one-on-one with your supervisor
- Qualified supervisor: Must be an LISW with at least two years of experience at the independent level
- Ethics training: 15 academic credit hours or 20 continuing education contact hours in professional ethics
Your supervisor helps you develop advanced clinical skills, ethical decision-making abilities, and professional judgment. They evaluate your progress regularly and verify your readiness for independent practice.
ASWB Advanced or Clinical Exam
LISW-AP applicants take the ASWB Advanced Generalist examination, which focuses on macro practice, program development, policy analysis, and organizational leadership. LISW-CP applicants take the ASWB Clinical examination, covering advanced clinical assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, therapeutic interventions, and clinical supervision.
Both exams are significantly more challenging than the bachelor's- or master 's-level tests. Most candidates spend 3-4 months preparing using study guides, practice tests, and review courses.
Application Package for LISW
Your LISW application expands on the LMSW requirements with documentation of your supervised experience and additional training:
- Completed LISW application form with fees
- Official transcripts documenting the MSW degree and required specialized coursework
- Proof of 15 academic credit hours or 20 CE hours in professional ethics
- Completed and signed LISW Supervision contract
- Detailed documentation of 3,000 supervised hours with supervisor verification
- Criminal background check results
- Legal photo identification
- Social security card copy
- Verification of lawful residence
- ASWB Advanced Generalist or Clinical exam scores
Timeline for LISW
From beginning your BSW to obtaining LISW licensure typically takes 8-10 years. That includes four years for your BSW, two years for your MSW, and 2-4 years completing your supervised experience. Add several months for exam preparation and application processing. Many social workers continue advancing their careers during supervision, often holding LMSW status while accumulating their required hours.
Salary and Career Outlook in South Carolina
Social work offers stable employment and competitive salaries in South Carolina, with earnings varying significantly by license level, specialization, and work setting. The state employs thousands of social workers across healthcare facilities, schools, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private practices.
| Specialization | Employment | 10th Percentile | Median Salary | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Healthcare Social Workers | 2,510 | $40,060 | $65,760 | $90,890 |
| School & Family Social Workers | 5,810 | $36,350 | $41,580 | $52,820 |
| Mental Health & Substance Abuse Social Workers | 29,230 | $33,300 | $53,900 | $64,650 |
| Social Workers, All Other | 500 | $37,160 | $91,940 | $113,550 |
Healthcare social workers earn the highest median salary in South Carolina, at $65,760 annually. These professionals work in hospitals, nursing homes, hospice programs, and medical clinics, helping patients navigate complex healthcare systems and access resources. Mental health and substance abuse social workers, who make up the largest employment category with over 29,000 positions statewide, earn a median of $53,900.
Licensed independent social workers, particularly those with LISW-CP status and private practices, often earn at the higher end of these ranges or beyond. Geographic location matters too. Social workers in metropolitan areas like Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville typically earn more than those in rural counties. However, rural areas often have a greater need and may offer loan-forgiveness programs.
For detailed information about different social work career paths and what to expect in each role, explore the specializations that align with your interests and values.
Timeline to Licensure
Understanding the time commitment helps you plan your educational and career path realistically. Here's what to expect for each license level:
LBSW Timeline: 4 Years
Four years for your BSW degree, plus 2-3 months for ASWB exam preparation and application processing. Most students complete this path by age 22-23 if they enter college directly after high school. Working professionals returning to school may take 5-6 years if attending part-time.
LMSW Timeline: 6 Years
Four years for BSW, two years for MSW, plus 2-3 months for exam and licensing. Some MSW programs offer advanced standing for BSW holders, reducing the MSW to one year and cutting your total timeline to 5 years. Others accept students with bachelor's degrees in other fields but require prerequisite coursework, potentially extending the timeframe to 6.5-7 years.
LISW Timeline: 8-10 Years
Four years for BSW, two years for MSW, 2-4 years for 3,000 supervised hours, plus several months for the advanced exam and application. The supervision phase's flexibility allows you to work full-time while accumulating hours, but extending it beyond two years means additional years before independent licensure—factor in time to complete any missing specialized coursework requirements.
Accelerating Your Path
You can shorten your timeline by completing your BSW in three years through summer sessions, choosing MSW programs with advanced standing for BSW graduates, working full-time during your supervision period (accumulating 40 hours weekly rather than part-time), and preparing for ASWB exams before graduation so you can test immediately.
Costs and Fees
Budgeting for licensure involves several distinct costs beyond your degree program tuition. Here's what you'll pay:
ASWB Examination Fees
- Bachelor Level Exam: $230
- Master Level Exam: $260
- Advanced Generalist Exam: $260
- Clinical Level Exam: $260
These fees cover one exam attempt. If you don't pass, you'll pay the full fee again for retakes. Most testing centers also charge a $35-60 administration fee.
Application and License Fees
South Carolina charges application fees for initial licensure at each level. Contact the State Board directly for current fee schedules, as these change periodically—budget approximately $100-200 for your initial application.
Background Check
The required criminal background check typically costs $40-75, depending on the vendor and whether you need a state-only or FBI fingerprint check.
Continuing Education and Renewal
Licensed social workers must complete continuing education hours for license renewal. Plan for $200- $ 500 annually for CE courses, conferences, or online training. Renewal fees apply every 1-2 years, depending on your license type.
Supervision Costs
LISW candidates may pay for clinical supervision if their employer doesn't provide it. Supervision rates range from $7 to $1500 per hour. With 100 hours required, this could cost $7,500-15,000, though many social service employers include supervision as part of employment.
Study Materials
ASWB exam preparation materials, including study guides, practice tests, and review courses, cost $100-500, depending on which resources you choose.
The Importance of CSWE Accreditation
The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) is the only recognized accreditor of social work programs in the United States. This accreditation isn't just a formality. You guarantee that your degree will qualify you for licensure in South Carolina and any other state you might move to during your career.
CSWE accreditation ensures programs meet rigorous standards in curriculum design, field education, faculty qualifications, and student outcomes. Accredited programs must demonstrate that graduates achieve specific competencies in areas such as ethical practice, human rights, research-informed practice, and engagement with diverse populations.
Without a CSWE-accredited degree, you can't apply for social work licensure in South Carolina. It doesn't matter how excellent your program was or how much experience you have. The state board requires CSWE accreditation as a non-negotiable prerequisite. Before enrolling in any BSW or MSW program, verify its current CSWE accreditation status on the CSWE-accredited MSW programs page or directly through CSWE's directory.
Exemptions and Alternatives
South Carolina may grant exemptions to the CSWE requirement in minimal circumstances. These exemptions typically apply only to individuals already licensed in related disciplines, such as medicine, psychology, or professional counseling. Even then, exemptions are rare and require extensive documentation. Don't count on receiving an exemption if your degree isn't CSWE-accredited.
If you already hold a degree in psychology, counseling, or another related field and want to become a social worker, your best path is completing a CSWE-accredited MSW program. Many programs accept students from diverse undergraduate backgrounds and can be completed in two years full-time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a licensed social worker in South Carolina?
The timeline depends on your target license level. An LBSW takes approximately four years (BSW degree) plus 2-3 months for exam and application processing. An LMSW requires about 6 years (BSW plus MSW), while LISW licensure takes 8-10 years, including your bachelor's and master's degrees and 2-4 years of supervised experience.
Can I practice social work in South Carolina without a license?
No. South Carolina law prohibits anyone from using the title "social worker" or engaging in professional social work practice without proper licensure. You may work in social service positions with other titles. Still, you can't represent yourself as a social worker or perform duties defined as social work practice under state law without licensure.
What's the difference between LMSW and LISW in South Carolina?
The LMSW is an advanced practice license that doesn't require supervised experience and qualifies you for non-clinical roles. The LISW requires 3,000 hours of post-graduate supervised experience and comes in two specializations: LISW-AP for administrative and advanced generalist practice, and LISW-CP for independent clinical practice, including psychotherapy and diagnosis.
How much does the ASWB exam cost in South Carolina?
ASWB exam fees range from $230 for the bachelor's level to $260 for the master's, advanced generalist, and clinical levels. You'll also pay a $35-60 administration fee to the testing center. These fees cover one attempt; you must pay again if you retake the exam.
Can I transfer my social work license from another state to South Carolina?
South Carolina participates in social work license reciprocity agreements. If you're licensed in another state, you may be eligible for licensure by endorsement. You'll still need to submit an application, pay fees, complete a background check, and demonstrate that your education and experience meet South Carolina's requirements. Contact the State Board for specific reciprocity procedures.
What's the pass rate for ASWB exams?
Pass rates vary by exam level and individual preparation. The bachelor-level exam has a pass rate of around 70-75%, the master-level exam around 75-80%, and the clinical-level exam around 70-73%. Adequate preparation using study guides, practice exams, and review courses significantly improves your chances of passing on the first attempt.
Do I need continuing education to maintain my South Carolina social work license?
Yes. South Carolina requires licensed social workers to complete continuing education hours for license renewal. The specific requirements vary by license level and change periodically, so check with the State Board for current CE requirements. Continuing education ensures you stay current with best practices, ethical standards, and evolving social work knowledge.
What are the job prospects for social workers in South Carolina?
Job prospects are strong. South Carolina employs over 38,000 social workers across various specializations, with mental health and substance abuse social work representing the largest category. The aging population, increased focus on mental health services, and ongoing need for child welfare services all contribute to steady demand for licensed social workers.
Can I supervise LBSWs if I have an LMSW?
Yes, LMSWs can supervise LBSWs in administrative and case management settings. However, clinical supervision for LISW candidates requires an LISW license with at least two years of experience at the independent level. The type of supervision you can provide depends on your license level and the supervisee's practice activities.
What happens if I don't complete my LISW supervised hours within four years?
South Carolina allows between two and four years to complete the 3,000-hour supervision requirement. If you can't complete the hours within four years due to circumstances beyond your control, you may petition the State Board for an extension. Document your progress carefully and maintain regular communication with your supervisor and the board to avoid complications.
Key Takeaways
- Three distinct license levels allow you to enter the profession with a BSW (LBSW) and advance to master's level practice (LMSW) or independent clinical/administrative work (LISW-AP or LISW-CP)
- CSWE accreditation is mandatory for all social work degrees used for South Carolina licensure, so verify your program's accreditation status before enrolling
- The LISW requires significant commitment, including an MSW degree, specialized coursework, 3,000 supervised hours over 2-4 years, and passing the advanced or clinical ASWB exam
- Salary ranges vary substantially by specialization and license level, from $41,580 median for school social workers to $91,940 for specialized independent practitioners
- Plan your timeline carefull,y as the path from bachelor's degree to independent licensure takes 8-10 years, though you can work as a licensed social worker at each level along the way
Ready to Start Your Social Work Career in South Carolina?
Explore CSWE-accredited social work programs that match your career goals, schedule, and location preferences.
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Additional Resources for Social Workers in South Carolina
- South Carolina Psychologist Licensing
- South Carolina Counselor Licensing
- South Carolina Marriage and Family Therapist Licensing
- Explore Additional Social Worker Careers
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job growth projections for Social Workers are based on state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed October 2025.
