South Carolina offers strong educational pathways for students interested in counseling careers. From undergraduate programs that introduce the foundations of psychology and human services to graduate-level degrees that prepare students for professional licensure, the state provides opportunities to train for roles in clinical mental health, school counseling, marriage and family therapy, and substance use treatment. Whether you’re studying in one of South Carolina’s major universities or exploring online options, the state can support your journey into this rewarding field.
Undergraduate Counseling Programs in South Carolina
Students in South Carolina who are interested in becoming counselors often begin with undergraduate studies in psychology, human services, or related fields. These programs provide foundational coursework in areas such as human development, counseling theories, and communication skills. Many also include opportunities for internships or fieldwork that give students early exposure to the profession.
For added flexibility, some students consider pursuing an online bachelor’s degree in counseling, which can provide accessibility while still preparing graduates for the advanced study typically required for licensure.
Here are a few schools in South Carolina with CACREP-accredited counseling programs:
- Clemson University: M.Ed./Ed.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.Ed./Ed.S. in School Counseling
- Columbia International University: M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- South Carolina State University: M.Ed. in School Counseling
- M.S. in Rehabilitation Counseling
- South University, Columbia: M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- The Citadel: M.Ed. in School Counseling
- University of South Carolina: Ed.S. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling
- Ed.S. in School Counseling
Click to jump to the full list of South Carolina counseling programs, or consider learning more about one of the below online counseling program currently accepting applicants.
Consider a Featured Online Counseling Program
| School and Program Information | Online Program? Entry Requirements | Course Information |
|---|---|---|
| Walden University
MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
 CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE scores not required |
Mental health counselors play a valuable role in helping people cope with life’s challenges. Walden’s online MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program can help you become the competent, compassionate counselor you know you can be. Learn More |
| Walden University
MS in School Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE scores not required |
School counselors help students overcome obstacles and shape successful futures. Walden’s online MS in School Counseling program will give you a solid foundation in school counseling theories, approaches, and best practices while enabling you to gain hands-on experience. Learn More |
| Northwestern University
Online MA in Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE Not Required Bachelor's Required |
Prepare to pursue licensure in as few as 18 months Learn MoreFull-time, part-time, and accelerated track options available |
| Northwestern University
Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy
COAMFTE Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE Not Required Bachelor's Required |
The COAMFTE-accredited MFT@Northwestern is offered by The Family Institute at Northwestern University. Full-time students can complete the program in as few as 21 months. No GRE is required, but applicants must hold an undergraduate degree. Full and part-time tracks available. Learn More |
| Grand Canyon University
Master's Degree in Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
|
Clinical Mental Health Counseling master's degree emphases include: Childhood and Adolescence Disorders, Christian Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Trauma. Designed to meet the academic requirements of the National Board for Certified Counselors for the National Certified Counselor credential, the Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor credential and the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners. As a private university, GCU has the same in-state and out-of-state tuition. Learn More |
| Liberty University
MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
Online with required intensives |
Our CACREP-accredited master’s in counseling degree online can help you become an ethical, well-trained mental health counselor with the knowledge, values, and skills you need to empower others to make positive changes in their lives. Online and on campus. Training Champions for Christ since 1971. Learn More |
| National University
Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
WSCUC Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE Scores Not Required |
The Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is focused on training highly skilled counselors to provide impactful and culturally sensitive mental health services in their communities. Learn More |
| University of Denver
Master of Arts in School Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
No GRE Required; Minimum GPA 2.5 Required |
Earn a Master’s degree in School Counseling online from the University of Denver. Learn from doctoral-level faculty in live classes and gain experience through mock counseling and in-field training. No GRE required. Complete in as few as 24 months. Learn More |
| Mid-America Christian University (MACU)
Master of Science (MS) in Counseling
Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
✔ Online
100% Online |
Expand your impact with an online counseling degree rooted in faith-based practice. Mid-America Christian University offers the largest Master of Science (MS) in Counseling program in Oklahoma, with emphasis areas in addiction and substance abuse, applied behavioral science, clinical mental health counseling, and marriage and family therapy. Explore the online MS in Counseling at MACU. Learn More |
*Sponsored Counseling Programs
Graduate Counseling Programs in South Carolina
Graduate-level counseling programs in South Carolina prepare students for professional licensure and specialized practice. These programs combine advanced coursework, research, and supervised clinical training to ensure that graduates are well-prepared for careers in school counseling, clinical mental health, marriage and family therapy, and related fields.
Several universities in the state offer programs that align with national standards, including CACREP-accredited counseling programs. Students may also want to consider flexible pathways such as an online master’s degree in counseling, an online master’s in counseling with no GRE, or online counseling PhD programs.
| Institution | City | Specialty | Degree | Online Options? |
| Charleston Southern University | Charleston | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. | Y |
| Clemson University | Greenville | School Counseling | M.Ed./Ed.S. | |
| Clemson University | Greenville | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.Ed./Ed.S. | |
| Columbia International University | Columbia | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. | Y |
| South Carolina State University, Counselor Education | Orangeburg | School Counseling | M.Ed. | |
| South Carolina State University, Rehabilitation Counseling | Orangeburg | Rehabilitation Counseling | M.A. | |
| South University – Columbia | Columbia | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. | |
| The Citadel | Charleston | School Counseling | M.Ed. | |
| University of South Carolina, College of Education | Columbia | School Counseling | Ed.S. | |
| University of South Carolina, College of Education | Columbia | Counselor Education and Supervision | Ph.D. | |
| University of South Carolina, College of Education | Columbia | Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Ed.S. | |
| University of South Carolina, College of Education | Columbia | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | Ed.S. | |
| University of South Carolina, School of Medicine | Columbia | Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling | M.A. | |
| Webster University, South Carolina | Columbia | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. | Y |
| Winthrop University | Rock Hill | School Counseling | M.Ed. | Y |
| Winthrop University | Rock Hill | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.Ed. | Y |
Snapshot: Online CACREP Accredited Programs
For detailed degree information, view the guides to:
Online CACREP Accredited programs | Online MPCAC Accredited programs
Top South Carolina Schools with Counseling Programs
The “best” school depends on your career goals, personal interests, and location. The following universities represent some of the leading options for counseling education in South Carolina. Use this list as a starting point in your search:
Clemson University
Featured Program: Counselor Education, M.Ed.
Clemson University offers a CACREP-accredited Master of Education in Counselor Education with specializations in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling. This 60-credit program can be completed full time in two years, including summers, or part time within six years. Courses are held in the afternoons and evenings, with instruction split between Clemson’s main campus and the University Center in Greenville. The curriculum emphasizes wellness, prevention, and intervention, with opportunities for experiential learning through field placements. Students are prepared as scholar-practitioners who integrate theory and research with advocacy and outreach to serve diverse populations.
About Clemson University
Clemson University is a public land-grant research university located in Clemson, South Carolina. Known for its strong academic programs and commitment to research, service, and economic development, Clemson provides a balance of rigorous scholarship and applied learning. The university fosters a collaborative environment across its colleges, and its location in the Upstate region offers students access to both a close-knit campus community and opportunities for professional engagement in nearby Greenville.
University of South Carolina
Featured Program: Master of Arts in Counseling and Rehabilitation
The University of South Carolina’s School of Medicine Columbia offers a 60-credit Master of Arts in Counseling and Rehabilitation with specialized practice areas in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling, Clinical Addiction Counseling, and Career Counseling. The program prepares students for licensure as professional counselors and for national certifications such as CRC, NCC, MAC, or CCC. Emphasizing ethical, culturally responsive, and recovery-oriented practice, the curriculum integrates classroom learning with practicum and internship experiences in diverse clinical and community settings. Courses are delivered in flexible formats, including hybrid distance learning, to accommodate working professionals.
About the University of South Carolina
The University of South Carolina is a public research university with its flagship campus in Columbia. As the state’s largest and most comprehensive institution of higher learning, USC offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. The Columbia campus combines the resources of a major research institution with a strong focus on community service and workforce development, supported by close connections to state agencies, health systems, and industry partners.
The Citadel
Featured Program: M.Ed. in Counselor Education
The Citadel’s Zucker Family School of Education offers a Master of Education in Counselor Education with specializations in elementary or secondary school counseling. This 60-credit program prepares students for South Carolina licensure as school counselors, with coursework covering counseling theory, group counseling, career counseling, multicultural issues, and program planning. Students complete a practicum and a 600-hour internship in school settings. Delivered primarily online, with in-person options available for cohorts, the program also provides a pathway for graduates to pursue Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or National Certified Counselor (NCC) credentials through additional coursework.
About The Citadel
The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina, is a public institution located in Charleston. Known for its leadership development model, The Citadel combines a strong liberal arts and professional education with a distinctive emphasis on discipline and service. While it maintains its historic Corps of Cadets, The Citadel also serves a diverse population of graduate, evening, and online students through its Graduate College and professional programs.
Walden University - MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Walden University - MS in School Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Northwestern University - Online MA in Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Northwestern University - Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy (COAMFTE Accredited)
Grand Canyon University - Master's Degree in Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Liberty University - MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited) (CACREP Accredited)
National University - Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (WSCUC Accredited)
University of Denver - Master of Arts in School Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Mid-America Christian University (MACU) - Master of Science (MS) in Counseling (Higher Learning Commission (HLC) Accredited)
How to Become a Licensed Counselor in South Carolina
In South Carolina, counseling licensure is regulated by the South Carolina Board of Examiners for Licensure of Professional Counselors, Marriage and Family Therapists, and Psycho-Educational Specialists, under the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR). The primary credential for clinical practice is the Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).
LPC Pathway — South Carolina Requirements
- Earn the qualifying graduate degree.
Applicants must complete a master’s or doctoral degree with at least 60 graduate semester hours in counseling or a closely related field from a regionally accredited institution. CACREP accreditation is not required, but programs must include coursework in required areas such as counseling theory, human growth and development, appraisal, ethics, multicultural counseling, research, and group counseling. - Apply as a Professional Counselor Associate.
After graduation, candidates must first be approved as a Professional Counselor Associate before beginning post-degree supervised experience. An approved supervision contract with a Board-approved LPC Supervisor is required. - Complete supervised post-degree experience.
LPC Associates must complete 1,500 hours of post-master’s clinical experience in no fewer than two years. Supervision must include regular sessions with a qualified LPC Supervisor, with both individual/triadic and group supervision documented according to Board rules. - Pass the required examinations.
Candidates must successfully pass one of the following:
- National Counselor Examination (NCE), or
- National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE)
In addition, applicants must pass the South Carolina Jurisprudence Exam, which covers state laws and ethical standards.
- National Counselor Examination (NCE), or
- Apply for full LPC licensure.
After completing supervised hours and passing required exams, candidates may apply for full LPC status. To maintain licensure, counselors must complete 40 hours of continuing education every two years.
For more general guidance, you can review:
- What an LPC is and does
- Steps on how to become an LPC
- Broader paths to become a counselor
Counseling Licensure Titles in South Carolina
South Carolina recognizes multiple counseling-related credentials, regulated by different state entities depending on the field of practice. The major titles include:
Professional Counseling
(Regulated by the South Carolina Board of Examiners for Licensure of Professional Counselors, Marriage and Family Therapists, Addiction Counselors and Psycho-Educational Specialists)
- Professional Counselor: The primary counseling license authorizing independent clinical practice.
- Professional Counselor Associate: A pre-licensure status for graduates completing the required supervised experience under an approved Professional Counselor Supervisor.
- Professional Counselor Supervisor: A designation for licensed professionals approved to supervise associates working toward full licensure.
Marriage and Family Therapy
(Regulated by the same Board)
- Marriage and Family Therapist: License for professionals trained to provide therapy to couples and families.
- Marriage and Family Therapist Associate: A pre-licensure credential for candidates completing supervised practice.
- Marriage and Family Therapist Supervisor: A designation for licensed therapists approved to supervise associates.
- Marriage and Family Therapist / Supervisor by Endorsement: License categories for out-of-state practitioners seeking recognition in South Carolina.
Psycho-Educational Services
(Regulated by the same Board)
- Psycho-Educational Specialist: A unique South Carolina license for professionals with advanced training in school psychology to provide counseling, assessment, and related services.
School Counseling
(Regulated by the South Carolina Department of Education – SCDE)
- School Counselor: Certification required for counselors working in PK–12 public schools. This credential is issued by the SCDE—not the Board of Examiners—and is based on completion of a master’s degree in school counseling along with state educator certification requirements.
Substance Use Disorder Counseling
(Regulated by the Addiction Professionals of South Carolina – APSC, in coordination with state boards)
- Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor (ADC): Credential for professionals providing substance use disorder counseling.
- Advanced Alcohol & Drug Counselor (AADC): A higher-level certification recognizing additional education and supervised clinical training.
- Clinical Supervisor (CS): Certification for experienced addiction professionals who provide supervision to other counselors.
- Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS): Credential for individuals with lived experience who provide peer-based recovery support.
- Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC) and LAC Associate: Licensure levels recognized by the Board for professionals who meet graduate education and supervised clinical training requirements.
Transferring a Counseling License to South Carolina
Counselors licensed in another state may be eligible to transfer their credentials to South Carolina, but the process depends on the type of license and the oversight body.
- Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) and LMFTs: Out-of-state professionals apply for licensure by endorsement through the South Carolina Board of Examiners for Licensure of Professional Counselors, Marriage and Family Therapists, and Psycho-Educational Specialists. To qualify, applicants must show that their degree, supervised experience, and exam results are substantially equivalent to South Carolina’s requirements. If deficiencies are identified, the Board may require additional coursework, supervision, or testing.
- School Counselors: Out-of-state school counselors apply through the South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE). The SCDE reviews transcripts, prior certifications, and professional experience to determine eligibility for a South Carolina school counselor certificate.
- Substance Use Counselors: Alcohol and drug counseling credentials are typically managed through the Addictions Professionals of South Carolina (APSC) and related state licensing partnerships. Reciprocity is not automatic and depends on the applicant’s existing credential, education, and supervised experience.
For the most accurate and current requirements, applicants should consult the appropriate authority:
- SC Board of Examiners for LPC/LMFT/LPES – South Carolina LLR Counseling Board
- SCDE – South Carolina Department of Education
- APSC – Addiction Professionals of South Carolina
Counseling Scholarships and Financial Aid in South Carolina
Students in South Carolina pursuing counseling degrees can access a variety of scholarships and financial aid opportunities to help offset the cost of education. Support is available through state programs, colleges and universities, and professional associations.
Some common options include:
- State-based financial aid: Programs such as the South Carolina Tuition Grants Program and the LIFE Scholarship provide funding support to eligible in-state students.
- University scholarships: Many South Carolina colleges and universities offer scholarships or graduate assistantships specifically for counseling, psychology, or education students.
- Professional associations: Groups like the South Carolina Counseling Association and the American Counseling Association (ACA) often offer scholarships, fellowships, or awards to counseling students and early career professionals.
- Federal financial aid: Students should complete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs.
Prospective students are encouraged to contact their university’s financial aid office and review state and professional association resources for the latest opportunities.
Counseling Job Outlook and Salary in South Carolina
Understanding the career landscape is an important step when considering a counseling degree. The data in the following table was gathered from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2025 and provides insights into employment trends and average salaries for counseling professionals in South Carolina.
| Median Annual Wage in South Carolina (May 2024) | Median Annual Wage Nationally (May 2024) | Projected Growth in South Carolina (2022–2032) | Projected National Growth (2022–2032) | |
| Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors | $50,720 | $59,190 | 20.4% | 18.4% |
| Rehabilitation Counselors | $38,420 | $46,110 | 10.3% | 1.9% |
| Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors | $57,400 | $65,140 | 14.0% | 5.4% |
| Marriage and Family Therapists | $51,440 | $63,780 | 20.6% | 14.9% |
| Counselors, Other | $63,040 | $49,830 | NA | 17.3% |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need a CACREP-accredited degree to become licensed in South Carolina?
CACREP accreditation is not required, but your degree program must include at least 60 graduate semester hours in counseling or a related field and meet South Carolina’s coursework requirements. A CACREP-accredited program often makes it easier to demonstrate compliance and may support license transfer to other states.
How long does it take to become an LPC in South Carolina?
The process usually takes 6–8 years: four years for a bachelor’s degree, two to three years for a master’s program, and at least two years to complete the required 1,500 post-master’s supervised clinical hours.
What exams are required for LPC licensure in South Carolina?
Applicants must pass either the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE), as well as the South Carolina Jurisprudence Exam.
Can I transfer my counseling license to South Carolina?
Yes. Licensed counselors from other states may apply by endorsement, provided their education, supervised experience, and exam results are substantially equivalent to South Carolina’s requirements.
Who regulates school counselors in South Carolina?
School counseling certification is managed by the South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE), not the counseling licensure board.
Making a Counseling Career in South Carolina
South Carolina offers strong opportunities for those pursuing counseling careers. Licensed counselors are needed in a variety of settings, including schools, private practice, community mental health centers, hospitals, and substance use treatment programs. Demand is especially strong in rural and underserved areas, where access to mental health care can be limited.
By completing the education, supervision, and licensure steps, counselors can build meaningful careers while contributing to the well-being of individuals and families across the state. Whether your interests lie in school counseling, marriage and family therapy, addiction services, or clinical mental health, South Carolina provides pathways for long-term growth and impact in the counseling profession.
Popular Online Counseling Programs
Walden University 🗹 Online Masters
Walden University 🗹 Online Masters
Northwestern University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Northwestern University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Grand Canyon University 🗹 Online
Liberty University 🗹 Online
National University 🗹 Online Courses Start Weekly
University of Denver 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Mid-America Christian University (MACU) 🗹 Online
Colorado Christian University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Schools With Campus-Based CACREP Accredited South Carolina Counseling Degrees
CACREP (Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs) is the top accrediting board for counseling programs.
Below, you will find a list of all of the CACREP accredited counseling programs in South Carolina. Keep scrolling or jump to all programs for all programs or view online CACREP accredited counseling programs.
Clemson University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/11/2012 to 10/31/2032
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 9/15/1998 to 10/31/2032
Columbia International University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/14/2014 to 10/31/2032
South Carolina State University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/1/2004 to 10/31/2021
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/1/2017 to 10/31/2020
South University, Columbia
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/9/2013 to 3/31/2023
The Citadel
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/1/2004 to 10/31/2021
University of South Carolina
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 10/19/1997 to 10/31/2022
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 4/25/1983 to 10/31/2022
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/1/2017 to 10/31/2020
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 4/25/1983 to 10/31/2022
Webster University, South Carolina
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/13/2018 to 10/31/2027
Winthrop University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/7/2015 to 10/31/2024
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 9/1/1999 to 10/31/2024
All Accredited Schools with Counseling Degrees in South Carolina
View all programs in South Carolina below, or jump to all South Carolina CACREP accredited counseling programs.
Bob Jones University Greenville
- Bachelors - Counseling Psychology
Clemson University Clemson
- M.Ed./Ed.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.Ed./Ed.S. in School Counseling
Coker College Hartsville
- Bachelors - Counseling Psychology
Columbia International University Columbia
- M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
South Carolina State University Orangeburg
- M.Ed. in School Counseling
- M.S. in Rehabilitation Counseling
South University, Columbia Columbia
- M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
The Citadel Charleston
- M.Ed. in School Counseling
University of South Carolina Columbia
- Ed.S. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling
- Ed.S. in School Counseling
- MRC in Rehabilitation Counseling
- Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
University of South Carolina-Columbia Columbia
- Doctorate - School Counseling
Webster University, South Carolina Columbia
- M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Winthrop University Rock Hill
- M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.Ed. in School Counseling
