The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE). Upon graduation, students are eligible to sit for a national comprehensive exam administered by the Board of Certification (BOC). After passing the BOC Exam, individuals must meet state regulations for the state where they wish to practice as an athletic trainer. Currently, 49 states and the District of Columbia regulate the practice of athletic training note that California’s regulations pertain to title protection only). Compliance with state regulatory requirements is mandatory and the only avenue to legal athletic training practice. Regulation of athletic trainers in South Carolina is performed by the Department of Health and Environmental Control.

The M.S. in Athletic Training is not a distance education program and there is no online option for initial enrollment in the program. It is expected that students enrolled in this program be in South Carolina while taking degree required coursework.

Each state has its own physical therapy licensure board with its own licensure requirements. Most states require graduation from a nationally accredited physical therapy program to apply for licensure. The USC DPT program is nationally accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). Since each state has individual licensure requirements, all students should check with the individual state board where they intend to seek licensure to determine that state’s requirements.

The D.P.T. is not a distance education program and there is no online option for initial enrollment in the program. It is expected that students enrolled in this program be in South Carolina while taking degree required coursework.

Each state has its own licensing board with its own speech-language pathology licensure requirements. The master’s degree program in Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of South Carolina is fully accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and its graduates eligible to sit for national certification (CCC-SLP) and professional licensure in the state of South Carolina. Students not living in South Carolina should check the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association site for information regarding state licensure specific to individual states throughout the U.S. where a non-resident student lives. If a current student is considering relocating to another state after being admitted into the program, the student must contact the program director to discuss how the move may impact their ability to participate in academic courses (distributed learning) and clinical practicum (experiential learning) opportunities in a different state.

This program is not a distance education degree program. Students will typically not be permitted to take distance education courses during their first semester of enrollment. Regardless of modality, students must be physically located in South Carolina while completing USC coursework required for the degree, apart from approved study abroad and formal exchange experiences. Additionally, field experiences, practicums, and internships completed as part of degree requirements must be at locations in South Carolina.

Regarding licensure, each state has its own certification/licensing board with its own school counseling certification/licensure requirements. Consequently, although the Educational Specialist degree program in Counselor Education at the University of South Carolina is fully accredited by the Council for Accreditation for Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), thereby making its graduates eligible to sit for national certification (NCC) and professional certification in the state of South Carolina, we cannot confirm that the program meets the requirements for professional certification/licensure in another state. Students who plan to seek certification in a state other than South Carolina should click here for information regarding state licensure specific to individual states throughout the U.S. and contact that state’s educator certification board to determine requirements.

This program is not a distance education degree program. Students will typically not be permitted to take distance education courses during their first semester of enrollment. Regardless of modality, students must be physically located in South Carolina while completing USC coursework required for the degree, apart from approved study abroad and formal exchange experiences. Additionally, field experiences, practicums, and internships completed as part of degree requirements must be at locations in South Carolina.

Regarding licensure, each state has its own licensing board with its own marriage, couples, and family counseling licensure requirements. Consequently, although the Educational Specialist degree program in Counselor Education at the University of South Carolina is fully accredited by the Council for Accreditation for Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), thereby making its graduates eligible to sit for national certification (NCC) and professional licensure in the state of South Carolina, we cannot confirm that the program meets the requirements for professional licensure in another state. Students who plan to seek certification in a state other than South Carolina should click here for information regarding state licensure specific to individual states throughout the U.S.

This program is not a distance education degree program. Students will typically not be permitted to take distance education courses during their first semester of enrollment. Regardless of modality, students must be physically located in South Carolina while completing USC coursework required for the degree, apart from approved study abroad and formal exchange experiences. Additionally, field experiences, practicums, and internships completed as part of degree requirements must be at locations in South Carolina.

Regarding licensure, each state has its own licensing board with its own clinical mental health counseling licensure requirements. Consequently, although the Educational Specialist degree program in Counselor Education at the University of South Carolina is fully accredited by the Council for Accreditation for Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), thereby making its graduates eligible to sit for national certification (NCC) and professional licensure in the state of South Carolina, we cannot confirm that the program meets the requirements for professional licensure in another state. Students who plan to seek certification in a state other than South Carolina should click here for information regarding state licensure specific to individual states throughout the U.S.

Students will typically not be permitted to take distance education courses during their first semester of enrollment. Regardless of modality, students must be physically located in South Carolina while completing USC coursework required for the degree, apart from approved study abroad and formal exchange experiences. Additionally, field experiences, practicums, and internships completed as part of degree requirements must be at locations in South Carolina and will typically be completed in Richland and Lexington counties.

Regarding teacher certification, each state has its own certification board with its own certification requirements. Consequently, although the educator certification programs at the University of South Carolina are fully accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and are South Carolina State approved programs for educator certification, we cannot confirm that the programs meet the requirements for educator certification in another state. However, South Carolina is part of the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) Interstate Agreement. Per their website: “The NASDTEC Interstate Agreement facilitates the mobility of educators among the states and other jurisdictions that are members of NASDTEC and have signed the Agreement. Although there may be conditions applicable to individual jurisdictions, the Agreement makes it possible for an educator who completed an approved program and/or who holds a certificate or license in one jurisdiction to earn a certificate or license in another state or jurisdiction.” A list of all states that have signed on to NASDTEC agreement can be found at this link [pdf]. Upon successful completion of an educator program and passing scores on appropriate educator certification exams (if required by the state in which the student is seeking certification), students may seek certification through application to a state’s board of education. Students wishing to seek certification in a state other than South Carolina must contact that state’s educator certification board to determine requirements.

The B.A. in Elementary Education (online delivery - Palmetto College) is an online degree completion program designed to prepare candidates for elementary education teaching positions in South Carolina. This program is fully accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and is a South Carolina State approved program for school elementary teacher certification. 

All field experiences, practicums, and internships completed as part of degree requirements must be at locations in South Carolina.

Admission to the online degree completion B.A. Elementary Education - Palmetto College is limited to applicants who meet one of the following criteria:

• Located in South Carolina at the time of enrollment.
• Located outside South Carolina and attests that they plan to seek SC elementary teacher certification and employment in a school/district located in SC. 

The University makes no claims regarding eligibility for certification in any state other than South Carolina for this online degree completion program. Students wishing to seek teacher certification in a state other than South Carolina should contact that state’s educator certification board to determine requirements and applicability of this degree.

This program is not a distance education degree program. Students will typically not be permitted to take distance education courses during their first semester of enrollment. Regardless of modality, students must be physically located in South Carolina while completing USC coursework required for the degree, apart from approved study abroad and formal exchange experiences. Additionally, field experiences, practicums, and internships completed as part of degree requirements must be at locations in South Carolina and will typically be completed in Richland and Lexington counties.

Regarding teacher certification, each state has its own certification board with its own certification requirements. Consequently, although the educator certification programs at the University of South Carolina are fully accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and are South Carolina State approved programs for educator certification, we cannot confirm that the programs meet the requirements for educator certification in another state. However, South Carolina is part of the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) Interstate Agreement. Per their website: “The NASDTEC Interstate Agreement facilitates the mobility of educators among the states and other jurisdictions that are members of NASDTEC and have signed the Agreement. Although there may be conditions applicable to individual jurisdictions, the Agreement makes it possible for an educator who completed an approved program and/or who holds a certificate or license in one jurisdiction to earn a certificate or license in another state or jurisdiction.” A list of all states that have signed on to NASDTEC agreement can be found at this link [pdf]. Upon successful completion of an educator program and passing scores on appropriate educator certification exams (if required by the state in which the student is seeking certification), students may seek certification through application to a state’s board of education. Students wishing to seek certification in a state other than South Carolina must contact that state’s educator certification board to determine requirements.

This program is not a distance education degree program. Students will typically not be permitted to take distance education courses during their first semester of enrollment. Regardless of modality, students must be physically located in South Carolina while completing USC coursework required for the degree, apart from approved study abroad and formal exchange experiences. Additionally, field experiences, practicums, and internships completed as part of degree requirements must be at locations in South Carolina and will typically be completed in Richland and Lexington counties.

Regarding teacher certification, each state has its own certification board with its own certification requirements. Consequently, although the educator certification programs at the University of South Carolina are fully accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and are South Carolina State approved programs for educator certification, we cannot confirm that the programs meet the requirements for educator certification in another state. However, South Carolina is part of the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) Interstate Agreement. Per their website: “The NASDTEC Interstate Agreement facilitates the mobility of educators among the states and other jurisdictions that are members of NASDTEC and have signed the Agreement. Although there may be conditions applicable to individual jurisdictions, the Agreement makes it possible for an educator who completed an approved program and/or who holds a certificate or license in one jurisdiction to earn a certificate or license in another state or jurisdiction.” A list of all states that have signed on to NASDTEC agreement can be found at this link [pdf]. Upon successful completion of an educator program and passing scores on appropriate educator certification exams (if required by the state in which the student is seeking certification), students may seek certification through application to a state’s board of education. Students wishing to seek certification in a state other than South Carolina must contact that state’s educator certification board to determine requirements.

This program is not a distance education degree program. Students will typically not be permitted to take distance education courses during their first semester of enrollment. Regardless of modality, students must be physically located in South Carolina while completing USC coursework required for the degree, apart from approved study abroad and formal exchange experiences. Additionally, field experiences, practicums, and internships completed as part of degree requirements must be at locations in South Carolina and will typically be completed in Richland and Lexington counties.

Regarding teacher certification, each state has its own certification board with its own certification requirements. Consequently, although the educator certification programs at the University of South Carolina are fully accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and are South Carolina State approved programs for educator certification, we cannot confirm that the programs meet the requirements for educator certification in another state. However, South Carolina is part of the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) Interstate Agreement. Per their website: “The NASDTEC Interstate Agreement facilitates the mobility of educators among the states and other jurisdictions that are members of NASDTEC and have signed the Agreement. Although there may be conditions applicable to individual jurisdictions, the Agreement makes it possible for an educator who completed an approved program and/or who holds a certificate or license in one jurisdiction to earn a certificate or license in another state or jurisdiction.” A list of all states that have signed on to NASDTEC agreement can be found at this link [pdf]. Upon successful completion of an educator program and passing scores on appropriate educator certification exams (if required by the state in which the student is seeking certification), students may seek certification through application to a state’s board of education. Students wishing to seek certification in a state other than South Carolina must contact that state’s educator certification board to determine requirements.

This program is not a distance education degree program. Students will typically not be permitted to take distance education courses during their first semester of enrollment. Regardless of modality, students must be physically located in South Carolina while completing USC coursework required for the degree, apart from approved study abroad and formal exchange experiences. Additionally, field experiences, practicums, and internships completed as part of degree requirements must be at locations in South Carolina and will typically be completed in Richland and Lexington counties.

Regarding teacher certification, each state has its own certification board with its own certification requirements. Consequently, although the educator certification programs at the University of South Carolina are fully accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and are South Carolina State approved programs for educator certification, we cannot confirm that the programs meet the requirements for educator certification in another state. However, South Carolina is part of the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) Interstate Agreement. Per their website: “The NASDTEC Interstate Agreement facilitates the mobility of educators among the states and other jurisdictions that are members of NASDTEC and have signed the Agreement. Although there may be conditions applicable to individual jurisdictions, the Agreement makes it possible for an educator who completed an approved program and/or who holds a certificate or license in one jurisdiction to earn a certificate or license in another state or jurisdiction.” A list of all states that have signed on to NASDTEC agreement can be found at this link [pdf]. Upon successful completion of an educator program and passing scores on appropriate educator certification exams (if required by the state in which the student is seeking certification), students may seek certification through application to a state’s board of education. Students wishing to seek certification in a state other than South Carolina must contact that state’s educator certification board to determine requirements.

This program is not a distance education degree program. Students will typically not be permitted to take distance education courses during their first semester of enrollment. Regardless of modality, students must be physically located in South Carolina while completing USC coursework required for the degree, apart from approved study abroad and formal exchange experiences. Additionally, field experiences, practicums, and internships completed as part of degree requirements must be at locations in South Carolina and will typically be completed in Richland and Lexington counties.

Regarding teacher certification, each state has its own certification board with its own certification requirements. Consequently, although the educator certification programs at the University of South Carolina are fully accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and are South Carolina State approved programs for educator certification, we cannot confirm that the programs meet the requirements for educator certification in another state. However, South Carolina is part of the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) Interstate Agreement. Per their website: “The NASDTEC Interstate Agreement facilitates the mobility of educators among the states and other jurisdictions that are members of NASDTEC and have signed the Agreement. Although there may be conditions applicable to individual jurisdictions, the Agreement makes it possible for an educator who completed an approved program and/or who holds a certificate or license in one jurisdiction to earn a certificate or license in another state or jurisdiction.” A list of all states that have signed on to NASDTEC agreement can be found at this link [pdf]. Upon successful completion of an educator program and passing scores on appropriate educator certification exams (if required by the state in which the student is seeking certification), students may seek certification through application to a state’s board of education. Students wishing to seek certification in a state other than South Carolina must contact that state’s educator certification board to determine requirements.

The M.A.T in Special Education is a blended distance education degree program designed to prepare candidates for special education teaching positions in South Carolina. This program is fully accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and is a South Carolina State approved program for special education certification. All field experiences, practicums, and internships completed as part of degree requirements must be at locations in South Carolina.

Admission to the M.A.T. in Special Education is limited to applicants who meet one of the following criteria:

• Located in South Carolina at the time of enrollment.
• Located outside South Carolina and attests that they plan to seek SC special education teacher certification and employment in a school/district located in SC. 

The University makes no claims regarding eligibility for certification in any state other than South Carolina for this degree program. Students wishing to seek teacher certification in a state other than South Carolina should contact that state’s educator certification board to determine requirements and applicability of this degree.

This program is not a distance education degree program. Students will typically not be permitted to take distance education courses during their first semester of enrollment. Regardless of modality, students must be physically located in South Carolina while completing USC coursework required for the degree, apart from approved study abroad and formal exchange experiences. Additionally, field experiences, practicums, and internships completed as part of degree requirements must be at locations in South Carolina and will typically be completed in Richland and Lexington counties.

Regarding teacher certification, each state has its own certification board with its own certification requirements. Consequently, although the educator certification programs at the University of South Carolina are fully accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and are South Carolina State approved programs for educator certification, we cannot confirm that the programs meet the requirements for educator certification in another state. However, South Carolina is part of the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) Interstate Agreement. Per their website: “The NASDTEC Interstate Agreement facilitates the mobility of educators among the states and other jurisdictions that are members of NASDTEC and have signed the Agreement. Although there may be conditions applicable to individual jurisdictions, the Agreement makes it possible for an educator who completed an approved program and/or who holds a certificate or license in one jurisdiction to earn a certificate or license in another state or jurisdiction.” A list of all states that have signed on to NASDTEC agreement can be found at this link [pdf]. Upon successful completion of an educator program and passing scores on appropriate educator certification exams (if required by the state in which the student is seeking certification), students may seek certification through application to a state’s board of education. Students wishing to seek certification in a state other than South Carolina must contact that state’s educator certification board to determine requirements.

This program is not a distance education degree program. Students will typically not be permitted to take distance education courses during their first semester of enrollment. Regardless of modality, students must be physically located in South Carolina while completing USC coursework required for the degree, apart from approved study abroad and formal exchange experiences. Additionally, field experiences, practicums, and internships completed as part of degree requirements must be at locations in South Carolina and will typically be completed in Richland and Lexington counties.

Regarding teacher certification, each state has its own certification board with its own certification requirements. Consequently, although the educator certification programs at the University of South Carolina are fully accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and are South Carolina State approved programs for educator certification, we cannot confirm that the programs meet the requirements for educator certification in another state. However, South Carolina is part of the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) Interstate Agreement. Per their website: “The NASDTEC Interstate Agreement facilitates the mobility of educators among the states and other jurisdictions that are members of NASDTEC and have signed the Agreement. Although there may be conditions applicable to individual jurisdictions, the Agreement makes it possible for an educator who completed an approved program and/or who holds a certificate or license in one jurisdiction to earn a certificate or license in another state or jurisdiction.” A list of all states that have signed on to NASDTEC agreement can be found at this link [pdf]. Upon successful completion of an educator program and passing scores on appropriate educator certification exams (if required by the state in which the student is seeking certification), students may seek certification through application to a state’s board of education. Students wishing to seek certification in a state other than South Carolina must contact that state’s educator certification board to determine requirements.

This program is not a distance education degree program. Students will typically not be permitted to take distance education courses during their first semester of enrollment. Regardless of modality, students must be physically located in South Carolina while completing USC coursework required for the degree, apart from approved study abroad and formal exchange experiences. Additionally, field experiences, practicums, and internships completed as part of degree requirements must be at locations in South Carolina and will typically be completed in Richland and Lexington counties.

Regarding teacher certification, each state has its own certification board with its own certification requirements. Consequently, although the educator certification programs at the University of South Carolina are fully accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and are South Carolina State approved programs for educator certification, we cannot confirm that the programs meet the requirements for educator certification in another state. However, South Carolina is part of the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) Interstate Agreement. Per their website: “The NASDTEC Interstate Agreement facilitates the mobility of educators among the states and other jurisdictions that are members of NASDTEC and have signed the Agreement. Although there may be conditions applicable to individual jurisdictions, the Agreement makes it possible for an educator who completed an approved program and/or who holds a certificate or license in one jurisdiction to earn a certificate or license in another state or jurisdiction.” A list of all states that have signed on to NASDTEC agreement can be found at this link [pdf]. Upon successful completion of an educator program and passing scores on appropriate educator certification exams (if required by the state in which the student is seeking certification), students may seek certification through application to a state’s board of education. Students wishing to seek certification in a state other than South Carolina must contact that state’s educator certification board to determine requirements.

This program is not a distance education degree program. Students will typically not be permitted to take distance education courses during their first semester of enrollment. Regardless of modality, students must be physically located in South Carolina while completing USC coursework required for the degree, apart from approved study abroad and formal exchange experiences. Additionally, field experiences, practicums, and internships completed as part of degree requirements must be at locations in South Carolina and will typically be completed in Richland and Lexington counties.

Regarding teacher certification, each state has its own certification board with its own certification requirements. Consequently, although the educator certification programs at the University of South Carolina are fully accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and are South Carolina State approved programs for educator certification, we cannot confirm that the programs meet the requirements for educator certification in another state. However, South Carolina is part of the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) Interstate Agreement. Per their website: “The NASDTEC Interstate Agreement facilitates the mobility of educators among the states and other jurisdictions that are members of NASDTEC and have signed the Agreement. Although there may be conditions applicable to individual jurisdictions, the Agreement makes it possible for an educator who completed an approved program and/or who holds a certificate or license in one jurisdiction to earn a certificate or license in another state or jurisdiction.” A list of all states that have signed on to NASDTEC agreement can be found at this link [pdf]. Upon successful completion of an educator program and passing scores on appropriate educator certification exams (if required by the state in which the student is seeking certification), students may seek certification through application to a state’s board of education. Students wishing to seek certification in a state other than South Carolina must contact that state’s educator certification board to determine requirements.

This program is not a distance education degree program. Students will typically not be permitted to take distance education courses during their first semester of enrollment. Regardless of modality, students must be physically located in South Carolina while completing USC coursework required for the degree, apart from approved study abroad and formal exchange experiences. Additionally, field experiences, practicums, and internships completed as part of degree requirements must be at locations in South Carolina and will typically be completed in Richland and Lexington counties.

Regarding teacher certification, each state has its own certification board with its own certification requirements. Consequently, although the educator certification programs at the University of South Carolina are fully accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and are South Carolina State approved programs for educator certification, we cannot confirm that the programs meet the requirements for educator certification in another state. However, South Carolina is part of the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) Interstate Agreement. Per their website: “The NASDTEC Interstate Agreement facilitates the mobility of educators among the states and other jurisdictions that are members of NASDTEC and have signed the Agreement. Although there may be conditions applicable to individual jurisdictions, the Agreement makes it possible for an educator who completed an approved program and/or who holds a certificate or license in one jurisdiction to earn a certificate or license in another state or jurisdiction.” A list of all states that have signed on to NASDTEC agreement can be found at this link [pdf]. Upon successful completion of an educator program and passing scores on appropriate educator certification exams (if required by the state in which the student is seeking certification), students may seek certification through application to a state’s board of education. Students wishing to seek certification in a state other than South Carolina must contact that state’s educator certification board to determine requirements.

This program is not a distance education degree program. Students will typically not be permitted to take distance education courses during their first semester of enrollment. Regardless of modality, students must be physically located in South Carolina while completing USC coursework required for the degree, apart from approved study abroad and formal exchange experiences. Additionally, field experiences, practicums, and internships completed as part of degree requirements must be at locations in South Carolina and will typically be completed in Richland and Lexington counties.

Regarding teacher certification, each state has its own certification board with its own certification requirements. Consequently, although the educator certification programs at the University of South Carolina are fully accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and are South Carolina State approved programs for educator certification, we cannot confirm that the programs meet the requirements for educator certification in another state. However, South Carolina is part of the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) Interstate Agreement. Per their website: “The NASDTEC Interstate Agreement facilitates the mobility of educators among the states and other jurisdictions that are members of NASDTEC and have signed the Agreement. Although there may be conditions applicable to individual jurisdictions, the Agreement makes it possible for an educator who completed an approved program and/or who holds a certificate or license in one jurisdiction to earn a certificate or license in another state or jurisdiction.” A list of all states that have signed on to NASDTEC agreement can be found at this link [pdf]. Upon successful completion of an educator program and passing scores on appropriate educator certification exams (if required by the state in which the student is seeking certification), students may seek certification through application to a state’s board of education. Students wishing to seek certification in a state other than South Carolina must contact that state’s educator certification board to determine requirements.

This program is not a distance education degree program. Students will typically not be permitted to take distance education courses during their first semester of enrollment. Regardless of modality, students must be physically located in South Carolina while completing USC coursework required for the degree, apart from approved study abroad and formal exchange experiences. Additionally, field experiences, practicums, and internships completed as part of degree requirements must be at locations in South Carolina and will typically be completed in Richland and Lexington counties.

Regarding teacher certification, each state has its own certification board with its own certification requirements. Consequently, although the educator certification programs at the University of South Carolina are fully accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and are South Carolina State approved programs for educator certification, we cannot confirm that the programs meet the requirements for educator certification in another state. However, South Carolina is part of the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) Interstate Agreement. Per their website: “The NASDTEC Interstate Agreement facilitates the mobility of educators among the states and other jurisdictions that are members of NASDTEC and have signed the Agreement. Although there may be conditions applicable to individual jurisdictions, the Agreement makes it possible for an educator who completed an approved program and/or who holds a certificate or license in one jurisdiction to earn a certificate or license in another state or jurisdiction.” A list of all states that have signed on to NASDTEC agreement can be found at this link [pdf]. Upon successful completion of an educator program and passing scores on appropriate educator certification exams (if required by the state in which the student is seeking certification), students may seek certification through application to a state’s board of education. Students wishing to seek certification in a state other than South Carolina must contact that state’s educator certification board to determine requirements.

This program is not a distance education degree program. Students will typically not be permitted to take distance education courses during their first semester of enrollment. Regardless of modality, students must be physically located in South Carolina while completing USC coursework required for the degree, apart from approved study abroad and formal exchange experiences. Additionally, field experiences, practicums, and internships completed as part of degree requirements must be at locations in South Carolina and will typically be completed in Richland and Lexington counties.

Regarding teacher certification, each state has its own certification board with its own certification requirements. Consequently, although the educator certification programs at the University of South Carolina are fully accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and are South Carolina State approved programs for educator certification, we cannot confirm that the programs meet the requirements for educator certification in another state. However, South Carolina is part of the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) Interstate Agreement. Per their website: “The NASDTEC Interstate Agreement facilitates the mobility of educators among the states and other jurisdictions that are members of NASDTEC and have signed the Agreement. Although there may be conditions applicable to individual jurisdictions, the Agreement makes it possible for an educator who completed an approved program and/or who holds a certificate or license in one jurisdiction to earn a certificate or license in another state or jurisdiction.” A list of all states that have signed on to NASDTEC agreement can be found at this link [pdf]. Upon successful completion of an educator program and passing scores on appropriate educator certification exams (if required by the state in which the student is seeking certification), students may seek certification through application to a state’s board of education. Students wishing to seek certification in a state other than South Carolina must contact that state’s educator certification board to determine requirements.

This program is not a distance education degree program. Students will typically not be permitted to take distance education courses during their first semester of enrollment. Regardless of modality, students must be physically located in South Carolina while completing USC coursework required for the degree, apart from approved study abroad and formal exchange experiences. Additionally, field experiences, practicums, and internships completed as part of degree requirements must be at locations in South Carolina and will typically be completed in Richland and Lexington counties.

Regarding teacher certification, each state has its own certification board with its own certification requirements. Consequently, although the educator certification programs at the University of South Carolina are fully accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and are South Carolina State approved programs for educator certification, we cannot confirm that the programs meet the requirements for educator certification in another state. However, South Carolina is part of the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) Interstate Agreement. Per their website: “The NASDTEC Interstate Agreement facilitates the mobility of educators among the states and other jurisdictions that are members of NASDTEC and have signed the Agreement. Although there may be conditions applicable to individual jurisdictions, the Agreement makes it possible for an educator who completed an approved program and/or who holds a certificate or license in one jurisdiction to earn a certificate or license in another state or jurisdiction.” A list of all states that have signed on to NASDTEC agreement can be found at this link [pdf]. Upon successful completion of an educator program and passing scores on appropriate educator certification exams (if required by the state in which the student is seeking certification), students may seek certification through application to a state’s board of education. Students wishing to seek certification in a state other than South Carolina must contact that state’s educator certification board to determine requirements.

This program is not a distance education degree program. Students will typically not be permitted to take distance education courses during their first semester of enrollment. Regardless of modality, students must be physically located in South Carolina while completing USC coursework required for the degree, apart from approved study abroad and formal exchange experiences. Additionally, field experiences, practicums, and internships completed as part of degree requirements must be at locations in South Carolina and will typically be completed in Richland and Lexington counties.

Regarding teacher certification, each state has its own certification board with its own certification requirements. Consequently, although the educator certification programs at the University of South Carolina are fully accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and are South Carolina State approved programs for educator certification, we cannot confirm that the programs meet the requirements for educator certification in another state. However, South Carolina is part of the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) Interstate Agreement. Per their website: “The NASDTEC Interstate Agreement facilitates the mobility of educators among the states and other jurisdictions that are members of NASDTEC and have signed the Agreement. Although there may be conditions applicable to individual jurisdictions, the Agreement makes it possible for an educator who completed an approved program and/or who holds a certificate or license in one jurisdiction to earn a certificate or license in another state or jurisdiction.” A list of all states that have signed on to NASDTEC agreement can be found at this link [pdf]. Upon successful completion of an educator program and passing scores on appropriate educator certification exams (if required by the state in which the student is seeking certification), students may seek certification through application to a state’s board of education. Students wishing to seek certification in a state other than South Carolina must contact that state’s educator certification board to determine requirements.

The M.A.T. in Elementary Education is an online distance education degree program designed to prepare candidates for elementary education teaching positions in South Carolina. This program is fully accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and is a South Carolina State approved program for elementary education certification.

All field experiences, practicums, and internships completed as part of degree requirements must be at locations in South Carolina.

Admission to the M.A.T. in Elementary Education is limited to applicants who meet one of the following criteria:

• Located in South Carolina at the time of enrollment.
• Located outside South Carolina and attests that they plan to seek SC elementary education teacher certification and employment in a school/district located in SC.

The University makes no claims regarding eligibility for certification in any state other than South Carolina for this degree program. Students wishing to seek teacher certification in a state other than South Carolina should contact that state’s educator certification board to determine requirements and applicability of this degree.

The M.Ed. in Education Administration is an online degree program designed to prepare candidates for school leadership positions in South Carolina. This program is fully accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and is a South Carolina State approved program for school principal certification.

The University makes no claims regarding a graduate's eligibility for certification as a school administrator or principal in any state other than South Carolina. For this reason, admission to the M.Ed. in Education Administration is limited to applicants who meet one of the following criteria:

• Located in South Carolina at the time of enrollment.
• Located outside South Carolina and attests that they plan to seek SC school principal certification and employment in a school/district located in SC.

To obtain SC principal certification upon completion of the M.Ed. program, the candidate must achieve minimum qualifying scores on the appropriate required area examination, have a valid SC Educator’s Professional Certificate, and have at least three years of teaching experience, including at least one year at a grade level that corresponds with the desired administrative certification area. Other requirements may apply. For questions or further information regarding SC certification, contact the SC Department of Education.

Students wishing to seek school principal certification in a state other than South Carolina should contact that state’s educator certification board to determine requirements and applicability of this degree.

The Ed.S. in Education Administration is an online degree program designed to prepare candidates for school district leadership positions in South Carolina. This program is fully accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and is a South Carolina State approved program for superintendent certification.

The University makes no claims regarding a graduate's eligibility for certification as a superintendent in any state other than South Carolina. For this reason, admission to the Ed.S. in Education Administration is limited to applicants who meet one of the following criteria:

• Located in South Carolina at the time of enrollment.
• Located outside South Carolina and attests that they plan to seek SC superintendent certification and employment in a school/district located in SC.

To obtain SC superintendent certification upon completion of the Ed.S. program, the candidate must achieve minimum qualifying scores on the appropriate required area examination, have a valid SC Professional Certificate and three years’ experience as a PreK–12 or postsecondary teacher and two years as a school or school district administrator, postsecondary administrator, or school business administrator. Other requirements may apply. For questions or further information regarding certification, contact the SC Department of Education.

Students wishing to seek superintendent certification in a state other than South Carolina should contact that state’s educator certification board to determine requirements and applicability of this degree.

This certification by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) is for teacher preparation programs nationally, including those that prepare students to be school librarians. This accreditation applies to the school library certification program and is recognized by other states as an indication of the high quality of our program. The master’s degree in library and information science you complete, along with school library certification, is accredited by the American Library Association (ALA) and is recognized by all libraries in the United States.

The master’s degree in library and information science and school library certification is accredited by the American Library Association and is recognized by all libraries in the United States.

Each state has its own licensing board with its own Registered Professional Nurse and Advanced Practice Registered Nurse licensure requirements. This program in the College of Nursing at the University of South Carolina are fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education thereby making BSN graduates eligible to sit for national licensure (NCLEX-RN) and thus meeting requirements for RN licensure in the state of South Carolina. If a current student is considering relocating to another state after being admitted into the program, the student must contact the program director to discuss how the move may impact their ability to participate in academic courses and clinical practica (experiential learning) opportunities in a different state.

South Carolina is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which is a voluntary agreement between states that allows nurses to practice in participating states without needing to obtain a separate license in each state. Participating states include: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. See NLC and RN licensure for additional information.

Each state has its own licensing board with its own Registered Professional Nurse and Advanced Practice Registered Nurse licensure requirements. This program in the College of Nursing at the University of South Carolina are fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education thereby making graduates eligible to sit for national licensure (NCLEX-RN) and thus meeting requirements for RN licensure in the state of South Carolina. If a current student is considering relocating to another state after being admitted into the program, the student must contact the program director to discuss how the move may impact their ability to participate in academic courses and clinical practica (experiential learning) opportunities in a different state.

South Carolina is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which is a voluntary agreement between states that allows nurses to practice in participating states without needing to obtain a separate license in each state. Participating states include: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. See NLC and RN licensure for additional information.

Each state has its own licensing board with its own Registered Professional Nurse and Advanced Practice Registered Nurse licensure requirements. The graduate degree programs in the College of Nursing at the University of South Carolina are fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education thereby making graduates eligible to sit for national certification (ANCC and AANP), thus meeting requirements for licensure in the state of South Carolina. For students not living in South Carolina, the graduate programs currently admit students from select states listed here. If a current student is considering relocating to another state after being admitted into the program, the student must contact the program director to discuss how the move may impact their ability to participate in academic courses (distributed learning) and clinical practica (experiential learning) opportunities in a different state.

Each state has its own licensing board with its own Registered Professional Nurse and Advanced Practice Registered Nurse licensure requirements. The graduate degree programs in the College of Nursing at the University of South Carolina are fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education thereby making graduates eligible to sit for national certification (ANCC and AANP), thus meeting requirements for licensure in the state of South Carolina. For students not living in South Carolina, the graduate programs currently admit students from select states listed here. If a current student is considering relocating to another state after being admitted into the program, the student must contact the program director to discuss how the move may impact their ability to participate in academic courses (distributed learning) and clinical practica (experiential learning) opportunities in a different state.

Each state has its own licensing board with its own Registered Professional Nurse and Advanced Practice Registered Nurse licensure requirements. The graduate degree programs in the College of Nursing at the University of South Carolina are fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education thereby making graduates eligible to sit for national certification (ANCC and AANP), thus meeting requirements for licensure in the state of South Carolina. For students not living in South Carolina, the graduate programs currently admit students from select states listed here. If a current student is considering relocating to another state after being admitted into the program, the student must contact the program director to discuss how the move may impact their ability to participate in academic courses (distributed learning) and clinical practica (experiential learning) opportunities in a different state.

Each state has its own licensing board with its own Registered Professional Nurse and Advanced Practice Registered Nurse licensure requirements. The graduate degree programs in the College of Nursing at the University of South Carolina are fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education thereby making graduates eligible to sit for national certification (ANCC and AANP), thus meeting requirements for licensure in the state of South Carolina. For students not living in South Carolina, the graduate programs currently admit students from select states listed here. If a current student is considering relocating to another state after being admitted into the program, the student must contact the program director to discuss how the move may impact their ability to participate in academic courses (distributed learning) and clinical practica (experiential learning) opportunities in a different state.

Each state has its own licensing board with its own Registered Professional Nurse and Advanced Practice Registered Nurse licensure requirements. The graduate degree programs in the College of Nursing at the University of South Carolina are fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education thereby making graduates eligible to sit for national certification (ANCC and AANP), thus meeting requirements for licensure in the state of South Carolina. For students not living in South Carolina, the graduate programs currently admit students from select states listed here. If a current student is considering relocating to another state after being admitted into the program, the student must contact the program director to discuss how the move may impact their ability to participate in academic courses (distributed learning) and clinical practica (experiential learning) opportunities in a different state.

Each state has its own licensing board with its own Registered Professional Nurse and Advanced Practice Registered Nurse licensure requirements. The graduate degree programs in the College of Nursing at the University of South Carolina are fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education thereby making graduates eligible to sit for national certification (ANCC and AANP), thus meeting requirements for licensure in the state of South Carolina. For students not living in South Carolina, the graduate programs currently admit students from select states listed here. If a current student is considering relocating to another state after being admitted into the program, the student must contact the program director to discuss how the move may impact their ability to participate in academic courses (distributed learning) and clinical practica (experiential learning) opportunities in a different state.

Each state has its own licensing board with its own Registered Professional Nurse and Advanced Practice Registered Nurse licensure requirements. The graduate degree programs in the College of Nursing at the University of South Carolina are fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education thereby making graduates eligible to sit for national certification (ANCC and AANP), thus meeting requirements for licensure in the state of South Carolina. For students not living in South Carolina, the graduate programs currently admit students from select states listed here. If a current student is considering relocating to another state after being admitted into the program, the student must contact the program director to discuss how the move may impact their ability to participate in academic courses (distributed learning) and clinical practica (experiential learning) opportunities in a different state.

Each state has its own licensing board with its own Registered Professional Nurse and Advanced Practice Registered Nurse licensure requirements. The graduate degree programs in the College of Nursing at the University of South Carolina are fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education thereby making graduates eligible to sit for national certification (ANCC and AANP), thus meeting requirements for licensure in the state of South Carolina. For students not living in South Carolina, the graduate programs currently admit students from select states listed here. If a current student is considering relocating to another state after being admitted into the program, the student must contact the program director to discuss how the move may impact their ability to participate in academic courses (distributed learning) and clinical practica (experiential learning) opportunities in a different state.

Each state has its own licensing board with its own Registered Professional Nurse and Advanced Practice Registered Nurse licensure requirements. The graduate degree programs in the College of Nursing at the University of South Carolina are fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education thereby making graduates eligible to sit for national certification (ANCC and AANP), thus meeting requirements for licensure in the state of South Carolina. For students not living in South Carolina, the graduate programs currently admit students from select states listed here. If a current student is considering relocating to another state after being admitted into the program, the student must contact the program director to discuss how the move may impact their ability to participate in academic courses (distributed learning) and clinical practica (experiential learning) opportunities in a different state.

Each state has its own licensing board with its own Registered Professional Nurse and Advanced Practice Registered Nurse licensure requirements. The graduate degree programs in the College of Nursing at the University of South Carolina are fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education thereby making graduates eligible to sit for national certification (ANCC and AANP), thus meeting requirements for licensure in the state of South Carolina. For students not living in South Carolina, the graduate programs currently admit students from select states listed here. If a current student is considering relocating to another state after being admitted into the program, the student must contact the program director to discuss how the move may impact their ability to participate in academic courses (distributed learning) and clinical practica (experiential learning) opportunities in a different state.

Each state has its own licensing board with its own Registered Professional Nurse and Advanced Practice Registered Nurse licensure requirements. The graduate degree programs in the College of Nursing at the University of South Carolina are fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education thereby making graduates eligible to sit for national certification (ANCC and AANP), thus meeting requirements for licensure in the state of South Carolina. For students not living in South Carolina, the graduate programs currently admit students from select states listed here. If a current student is considering relocating to another state after being admitted into the program, the student must contact the program director to discuss how the move may impact their ability to participate in academic courses (distributed learning) and clinical practica (experiential learning) opportunities in a different state.

Each state has its own licensing board with its own Registered Professional Nurse and Advanced Practice Registered Nurse licensure requirements. The graduate degree programs in the College of Nursing at the University of South Carolina are fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education thereby making graduates eligible to sit for national certification (ANCC and AANP), thus meeting requirements for licensure in the state of South Carolina. For students not living in South Carolina, the graduate programs currently admit students from select states listed here. If a current student is considering relocating to another state after being admitted into the program, the student must contact the program director to discuss how the move may impact their ability to participate in academic courses (distributed learning) and clinical practica (experiential learning) opportunities in a different state.

Each state has its own pharmacy licensing board with its own state specific licensing requirements. The University of South Carolina College of Pharmacy Doctor of Pharmacy professional degree program is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), making its graduates eligible to sit for pharmacist licensure exams (e.g., NAPLEX and MPJE) so it meets the education requirements for licensure in every state. However, some states have additional requirements that applicants for licensure must meet in addition to graduating from an ACPE-accredited program. The National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) provides information regarding individual state boards of pharmacy and licensure specific to individual states throughout the U.S. where a student may wish to become licensed following graduation.

Each state has its own licensing board with its own social work licensure requirements. As a program fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, BSW graduates at the University of South Carolina are eligible to sit for professional licensure in the state of South Carolina. The BSW program satisfies the professional licensure/certification requirements in all states. There is also an effort to create a social work license compact. See Compact Map – Social Work Licensure Compact for additional information. 

Each state has its own licensing board with its own social work licensure requirements. As a program fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, MSW graduates at the University of South Carolina are eligible to sit for professional licensure in the state of South Carolina. The MSW program also satisfies the professional licensure/certification requirements in all states, however, some states require specific coursework so students must consult with their advisor to ensure the required coursework is completed. There is also an effort to create a social work license compact. See Compact Map – Social Work Licensure Compact for additional information. 

Each state has its own licensing process enacted through that state’s Supreme Court. The JD program prepares students to practice law in South Carolina. The Office of Bar Admissions of the Supreme Court of South Carolina is responsible for processing applications for admission to practice law in South Carolina, including regular admission under Rule 402 of the South Carolina Appellate Court Rules, limited certificates to practice law and pro hac vice applications. The Office assists the Board of Law Examiners in conducting the South Carolina Bar Examination and the Committee on Character and Fitness in processing applications for admission. The Office processes applications for licensing as a foreign legal consultant. Additionally, the Office provides certificates of good standing for those licensed to practice law in South Carolina and processes trial experiences and death penalty certifications. Because JD program is accredited by the American Bar Association, graduates possess an acceptable education credential to sit for the bar examination in every state in the United States and the District of Columbia, however, students who wish to be licensed in another state should click here for more information. It is the student’s responsibility to follow these procedures for licensure.

The program is not a distance education program and there is no online option for initial enrollment in the program. It is expected that students enrolled in this program be in South Carolina while taking degree required coursework.

All students in the Cardiovascular Technology (CVT) degree program take at least one exam for national certification. There are two different credentialing agencies: Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) and American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). Students who study the invasive specialty credential through CCI with the Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) licensure. For the non-invasive track, students can credential through either CCI or ARDMS and can specialize in echocardiography (RCS through CCI or RDCS through ARDMS), in vascular sonography (RVS through CCI and RVT through ARDMS) or both. The CVT curriculum, including intensive CVT training program, accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Cardiovascular Technology, and the completion of one of the national certifications meet the requirements for initial licensure in all 50 states. While the program meets the education requirements for licensure in every state, there are, however, some states that do have additional state-specific licensure requirements.

The program is not a distance education program and there is no online option for initial enrollment in the program. It is expected that students enrolled in this program be in South Carolina while taking degree required coursework.

The Psychology program prepares students for licensure in South Carolina. Students entering the program are expected to be or are required to become South Carolina residents due to the clinical/internship requirements. The Psychology program is not a distance education program and there is no online option for initial enrollment in the program. It is expected that students enrolled in this program be in South Carolina while taking degree required coursework.

The Psychology program prepares students for licensure in South Carolina. Students entering the program are expected to be or are required to become South Carolina residents due to the clinical/internship requirements. The Psychology program is not a distance education program and there is no online option for initial enrollment in the program. It is expected that students enrolled in this program be in South Carolina while taking degree required coursework.

The Genetic Counseling Program is eligible for licensure in South Carolina. The program is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling, thereby making our graduates eligible to sit for the American Board of Genetic Counseling national certification examination. Some states have licensure for genetic counselors and some have not enacted licensure legislation/regulations. States with licensure have a licensing board with their own genetic counselor licensure requirements. State licensing laws typically require graduation from an ABGC accredited program and passing the ABGC national certification examination in order for a genetic counselor to apply for professional licensure. Candidates for licensure must apply and meet the requirements for professional licensure in the state of choice and meet that state’s current regulations for genetic counselor licensure. Click here for current information for states that have enacted genetic counselor licensure. 

The program is not a distance education program and there is no online option for initial enrollment in the program. It is expected that students enrolled in this program be in South Carolina while taking degree required coursework.

Each state has its own medical licensing board with its own medical licensure requirements. The Doctor of Medicine program at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine is fully accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME), thereby making our graduates eligible to sit for the United States Medical Licensing Examination and apply for professional licensure in the state of South Carolina. Students must apply for and meet the requirements for professional licensure in the state of the residency program. For students who match in a post-graduate residency program outside of South Carolina, the following link provides information regarding medical licensure specific to individual states throughout the United States. 

Each state has its own licensing board with its own requirements for advance practice nursing licensure. All students must have an active Registered Nurse License in the state of South Carolina to be admitted into the program. The Nurse Anesthesia program at the University of South Carolina is fully accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs, thereby making its graduates eligible to sit for National Board of Certification for Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA). The program is eligible for licensure in South Carolina. Students planning to practice in any state after graduation and national certification should check with that state to ensure all requirements for advance nurse practice licensure are met (Please see individual State Board of Nursing and Licensing sites for specific details). 

The program is not a distance education program and there is no online option for initial enrollment in the program. It is expected that students enrolled in this program be in South Carolina while taking degree required coursework.

Each state has its own individual licensing boards along with their own Physician Assistant licensure requirements. The master’s degree program in Physician Assistant Studies at the University of South Carolina is provisionally accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA), thereby making its graduates eligible to sit for the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE) and professional licensure in the state of South Carolina. Students living outside of South Carolina should click here for information regarding state licensure specific to individual states throughout the U.S. The University of South Carolina School of Medicine Physician Assistant program requires that all core supervised clinical practical experiences (SCPE) be completed within the state of South Carolina. 

The program is not a distance education program and there is no online option for initial enrollment in the program. It is expected that students enrolled in this program be in South Carolina while taking degree required coursework.

The Counseling and Rehabilitation Program meets with applicants who fall within general guidelines for an interview. During the interview, as well as on our Program website, we inform applicants and students that each state has its own licensing board with its own counselor licensure requirements. The 60-credit hour MA in Counseling and Rehabilitation includes coursework and field experiences required by the state of South Carolina for graduates to be eligible to take the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Examination (NCMHCE) that leads to counselor licensure in South Carolina. Many states require one of these two exams for their professional counselor licensee applicants. The Clinical Addiction Counseling specialized practice area includes coursework required by the state of South Carolina for graduates to be eligible to take the National Association for Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC) Master Addiction Counselor (MAC) Exam or the International Certification and Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC) Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (AADC) Exam. Again, these are nationally recognized. For students not living in South Carolina, faculty work with them to understand the licensure requirements in their state of residence. If we are not able to meet that state’s requirements, faculty provide advising to assist applicants find a program that better meets their goals. For applicants and students who are admitted, because our program provides the basis for what is accepted in student’s state of residence, we help to outline a Program of Study so the student’s elective aligns with a course requirement in another state (e.g., human sexuality for Florida LMHC). If a current student is considering relocating to another state after being admitted into the program, the student must contact the Program Director to discuss how the move may impact their ability to participate in academic courses and clinical practicum and internship (experiential learning) opportunities as well as licensure in a different state.

In the field of professional counseling, while there is no state license portability, there is a new Counseling Compact that will go into effect Fall 2025. Please see Counseling Compact for more information about this important move to allow counselors to work across state lines.

Essentially, “the Counseling Compact is a legislative agreement among participating states which allows counselors to practice across state lines either in person or via telehealth. It is a mutual recognition model, which means that every participating state agrees to recognize the license of all eligible counselors from every other member state and allow them a privilege to practice in that state. Everything is tied to the counselor’s home state and they must have a valid, unencumbered license from the state where they legally reside.” At present there are 37 states that have passed the legislation and five more have filed for it in their legislative branches. South Carolina is one of the 37 that have passed this legislation as have the states in the Southeast region of the US.