Earning a CPA License in South Carolina is a strategic step toward a rewarding accounting career in a state with a vibrant economy and expanding opportunities. Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) in South Carolina are in high demand, particularly in hubs like Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville, across industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism. This article explores the career paths, salary expectations, and steps to obtain your CPA License in South Carolina, optimized for aspiring professionals aiming to excel in the Palmetto State.

Why Pursue a CPA License in South Carolina?

South Carolina’s economy is thriving, with key sectors like advanced manufacturing, aerospace, and logistics driving growth and creating a strong need for skilled CPAs. A CPA License in South Carolina enhances your professional credibility, unlocks seso why nior-level roles, and can boost earning potential by 10-15% compared to non-certified accountants. With over 15,550 accountants and auditors employed and projected job growth aligning with national trends of around 6% through 2032, the state offers a robust market for CPAs, especially amid a national shortage due to retirements.

Career Opportunities for CPAs in South Carolina

A CPA License in South Carolina opens doors to diverse career paths across the state’s key industries. Here are some prominent opportunities:

1. Public Accounting

CPAs in public accounting firms provide auditing, tax preparation, and consulting services. South Carolina hosts Big Four firms (Deloitte, EY, KPMG, PwC) in Charleston and Columbia, alongside regional firms like Elliott Davis, serving clients from startups to corporations like Boeing.

2. Corporate Accounting

Many CPAs work in-house for South Carolina-based companies, such as Michelin or Sonoco Products, managing financial reporting, budgeting, and compliance. These roles are prevalent in manufacturing, healthcare, and distribution.

3. Forensic Accounting

Forensic accountants investigate financial discrepancies and fraud, often collaborating with law firms or government agencies. This specialized field is growing in South Carolina due to the state’s expanding business landscape.

4. Government and Nonprofit Roles

CPAs in South Carolina’s government sector, such as the Department of Revenue, or nonprofit organizations ensure compliance and manage public funds, offering stability and mission-driven work.

5. Financial Advisory and Consulting

With a CPA License in South Carolina, you can provide strategic financial advice, specializing in tax planning, risk management, or business consulting. These roles are lucrative in Greenville’s upstate economic corridor.

6. Academia

CPA-licensed educators are sought after at universities like the University of South Carolina due to faculty retirements and increasing student interest in accounting.

Salary Expectations for CPAs in South Carolina

A CPA License in South Carolina significantly enhances earning potential. The average CPA salary in South Carolina is approximately $96,896 per year , with top earners exceeding $110,000. Here’s a breakdown by experience and role:

  • Entry-Level CPAs: Starting salaries range from $55,000 to $70,000, with Big Four firms offering higher pay due to complex client portfolios.
  • Mid-Level CPAs (3-5 Years): CPAs with a few years of experience earn $70,000–$90,000, particularly in auditing or tax roles.
  • Senior-Level CPAs: Senior accountants or controllers with 6+ years of experience can earn $90,000 to $120,000, with controllers commanding higher salaries.
  • Executive Roles: Chief Financial Officers (CFOs), often CPAs, earn median salaries of $150,000 or more, with top earners exceeding $200,000 in metro areas like Charleston.

Salaries are higher in urban areas like Charleston and Greenville due to demand and cost of living. Specializations like forensic accounting can further increase earnings.

Requirements for a CPA License in South Carolina

To earn a CPA License in South Carolina, candidates must meet the requirements set by the South Carolina Board of Accountancy. These include:

  1. Education: A bachelor’s degree with 150 semester hours of college credit, including at least 36 hours in accounting and 36 hours in business courses . To sit for the CPA Exam, 120 semester hours are required, allowing candidates to complete the remaining hours later.
  2. CPA Exam: Pass all four sections of the Uniform CPA Exam (Auditing and Attestation, Financial Accounting and Reporting, Regulation, and one Discipline Exam: BAR, ISC, or TCP) with a minimum score of 75 within 18 months .
  3. Work Experience: One year (2,000 hours) of full-time accounting experience under the direct supervision of a licensed CPA or public accountant .
  4. Ethics Exam: Pass the AICPA Professional Ethics Exam with a score of 90% or higher .
  5. Additional Requirements: Submit transcripts, experience verification, and a background check. No U.S. citizenship or state residency is required, making licensure accessible to diverse candidates .

Maintaining Your CPA License in South Carolina

To maintain a CPA License in South Carolina, CPAs must renew annually by June 30 for a $100 fee and complete 40 hours of Continuing Professional Education (CPE) each year, including 4 hours in ethics. The South Carolina Association of Certified Public Accountants (SCACPA) offers CPE resources and networking opportunities.

Why Now Is the Time to Earn Your CPA License in South Carolina

South Carolina’s accounting job market is expanding with the state’s economic growth, particularly in manufacturing and tourism, creating steady demand for CPAs. The traditional 150-hour requirement remains, but the profession’s evolution with technology like AI is increasing opportunities in advisory roles, making 2025 an ideal time to pursue your CPA License in South Carolina amid ongoing talent shortages.

How to Get Started

  1. Verify Eligibility: Submit an education evaluation application ($90 fee) to NASBA to confirm exam eligibility.
  2. Prepare for the CPA Exam: Use review courses from providers like Becker or UWorld to prepare for the four-part exam.
  3. Gain Work Experience: Secure a qualifying position under a licensed CPA.
  4. Complete the Ethics Exam: Pass the AICPA Professional Ethics Exam.
  5. Apply for Licensure: Submit a license application ($100 fee) through NASBA after meeting all requirements.

For detailed guidance, visit llr.sc.gov/acct/ or contact NASBA at (866) 350-0017 .

Conclusion

A CPA License in South Carolina is your gateway to a thriving career in the Palmetto State’s dynamic economy, where opportunities in public accounting, corporate finance, and advisory services abound amid robust growth in manufacturing and healthcare. With an average salary of $96,896 , projected 6% job expansion through 2032, and accessible pathways like sitting for the exam with 120 credits, now is the perfect moment to invest in your future as a CPA. Whether launching in Charleston’s historic charm or advancing in Columbia’s business core, this credential equips you for leadership, innovation, and financial success. Start your journey today to unlock the full potential of a CPA License in South Carolina and build a lasting legacy in accounting!