South Carolina offers exceptional opportunities for accounting professionals, with growing demand across major cities like Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville. Whether you’re pursuing CPA certification or exploring accounting careers, this comprehensive guide covers education requirements, licensing steps, salary expectations, and career paths for accountants in the Palmetto State.
The South Carolina Board of Accountancy oversees the licensing of certified public accountants, requiring candidates to complete 150 semester hours of education, gain professional experience, and pass the Uniform CPA Exam. With accounting jobs projected to grow significantly through 2028, South Carolina provides an ideal environment for building a successful accounting career.
South Carolina CPA Requirements Overview
Becoming a CPA in South Carolina requires meeting specific educational, examination, and experience requirements set by the South Carolina Board of Accountancy. Understanding these requirements is essential for planning your path to licensure.
Education Requirements
South Carolina mandates 150 semester hours of college education for CPA licensure. Since most bachelor’s degree programs provide only 120 credit hours, aspiring CPAs typically need additional coursework. Options include:
- Completing a master’s degree in accounting (30-36 credit hours)
- Taking additional undergraduate courses
- Pursuing a double major or minor
- Enrolling in a combined bachelor’s/master’s program
Your coursework must include at least 24 semester hours in accounting subjects beyond introductory level, including courses in:
- Financial accounting
- Auditing
- Taxation
- Management accounting
CPA Exam Requirements
All CPA candidates must pass the four-part Uniform CPA Examination:
- Auditing and Attestation (AUD)
- Business Environment and Concepts (BEC)
- Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)
- Regulation (REG)
South Carolina allows candidates to sit for the exam once they’ve completed 120 credit hours with a bachelor’s degree, though the full 150 hours are required for licensure.
Experience Requirements
South Carolina requires one year (2,000 hours) of accounting experience under the supervision of a licensed CPA. Qualifying experience includes work in:
- Public accounting firms
- Corporate accounting departments
- Government agencies
- Non-profit organizations
Pro Tip: Many candidates fulfill their experience requirement while completing their 150-hour education requirement by working part-time or during internships at accounting firms.
South Carolina Accounting Career Paths
South Carolina’s diverse economy offers numerous career opportunities for accounting professionals across various industries and specializations.
Public Accounting Opportunities
Major public accounting firms maintain a strong presence in South Carolina:
- Deloitte – Offices in Columbia and Greenville
- PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) – Spartanburg location
- Regional firms – Elliott Davis, Dixon Hughes Goodman, and Cherry Bekaert
These firms offer career paths in:
- Audit and assurance services
- Tax planning and compliance
- Management consulting
- Forensic accounting
Corporate and Industry Accounting
South Carolina hosts several major employers seeking accounting talent:
- Blackbaud (Charleston) – Specializes in nonprofit fund accounting software
- BMW Manufacturing (Spartanburg) – Employs cost accountants and financial analysts
- Boeing (Charleston) – Hires capital accountants and budget analysts
- Michelin North America (Greenville) – Seeks management accountants
Government and Non-Profit Sectors
Government agencies and non-profit organizations provide stable career options:
- State government positions in Columbia
- Federal positions at military installations
- Healthcare systems and universities
- Charitable organizations and foundations
South Carolina Accountant Salaries 2024
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics May 2024 data, South Carolina’s accounting professionals earn competitive salaries that vary by experience, location, and specialization.
Statewide Salary Overview
Salaries by Major Metro Areas
Specialized Accounting Roles
Certain accounting specializations command premium salaries in South Carolina:
- Forensic Accountants: $85,000 – $115,000
- Internal Auditors: $70,000 – $95,000
- Tax Managers: $90,000 – $130,000
- Controllers: $110,000 – $165,000
- CFOs: $175,000 – $300,000+
Note: Salaries in Charleston and Greenville typically exceed state averages by 5-10% due to higher cost of living and concentration of major employers.
Job Outlook and Industry Growth
The South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce projects strong growth for accounting professionals through 2028:
- 12% growth rate for accountants and auditors (faster than average)
- 1,920 annual job openings due to growth and replacements
- Increased demand in healthcare, technology, and manufacturing sectors
Emerging Opportunities
Several trends are creating new opportunities for South Carolina accountants:
- Technology integration – Demand for accountants skilled in data analytics and automation
- Sustainability reporting – Growing need for environmental accounting expertise
- Remote work options – Increased flexibility in work arrangements
- Advisory services – Shift from compliance to strategic consulting roles
Top Accounting Schools in South Carolina
South Carolina offers several AACSB-accredited accounting programs that prepare students for CPA licensure:
University Programs
- Clemson University – Offers bachelor’s and master’s in professional accountancy
- University of South Carolina – Features integrated 5-year CPA-track program
- College of Charleston – Provides bachelor’s and MAcc degrees
- Furman University – Offers accounting major with CPA preparation
Online Options
For working professionals, several South Carolina schools offer online accounting degrees:
- Southern Wesleyan University – Online accounting bachelor’s
- Charleston Southern University – Online MBA with accounting concentration
- Liberty University (regional campus) – Online accounting programs
Steps to Start Your Accounting Career in South Carolina
Follow these steps to launch your accounting career in the Palmetto State:
- Choose your educational path – Select an accredited program that meets the 150-hour requirement
- Gain relevant experience – Pursue internships during college
- Network professionally – Join the South Carolina Association of CPAs
- Prepare for the CPA exam – Consider a CPA review course
- Apply for licensure – Submit application to SC Board of Accountancy
- Maintain your license – Complete 40 hours of CPE annually
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the CPA requirements in South Carolina?
South Carolina requires 150 semester hours of education, including a bachelor’s degree, one year (2,000 hours) of supervised accounting experience, and passing scores on all four parts of the Uniform CPA Exam. Candidates must also pass an ethics exam specific to South Carolina.
How much do CPAs make in South Carolina?
According to May 2024 BLS data, the median salary for accountants and auditors in South Carolina is $71,070. Experienced CPAs in the 90th percentile earn over $114,950, with those in management positions earning significantly more.
Can I sit for the CPA exam with 120 credit hours in South Carolina?
Yes, South Carolina allows candidates to sit for the CPA exam after completing 120 credit hours and earning a bachelor’s degree. However, you must complete the full 150 credit hours before applying for licensure.
What are the best cities for accountants in South Carolina?
Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville offer the most opportunities and the highest salaries for accountants. Charleston leads the way with a median salary of $72,940, followed by Greenville at $71,780.
How long does it take to become a CPA in South Carolina?
Typically 5-6 years total: 4 years for a bachelor’s degree, 1-2 years for additional education to reach 150 hours, plus 1 year of required work experience. The CPA exam can be completed during this time.
Does South Carolina have reciprocity for CPA licenses?
Yes, South Carolina has reciprocity agreements with other states. CPAs licensed in other jurisdictions can apply for reciprocal licensure if they meet South Carolina’s education and experience requirements.
May 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics salary data for Accountants and Auditors reflect state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed June 2025.
