Teacher Certification Types & Requirements in South Carolina for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Becoming a certified teacher in South Carolina opens the door to a career that is not only intellectually stimulating but also deeply impactful. Certification ensures educators are equipped with the necessary skills to foster student growth and meet state educational standards.

South Carolina’s diverse certification routes cater to various backgrounds, including traditional, alternative, and provisional pathways, reflecting the state’s commitment to maintaining high teaching quality.

Pursuing certification here often leads to greater job security, competitive salaries, and opportunities for professional development. Exploring the types and requirements of teacher certification in South Carolina will provide aspiring educators with crucial insights to navigate this meaningful profession effectively.

Key Points About Teacher Certification Types and Requirements in South Carolina

South Carolina offers several certification types including initial, professional, and advanced certifications, each requiring specific education, testing, and classroom experience benchmarks.
The state projects steady demand for certified teachers, driven by population growth and education reform efforts, with an average salary near $57,000, reflecting modest but stable compensation.
South Carolina’s diverse student population and evolving educational policies make it a strategic launching ground for educators committed to impactful, community-focused teaching careers.

What are the different types of teaching certifications in South Carolina?
What are the education requirements to become a certified teacher in South Carolina?
What tests are required for teacher certification in South Carolina?
What are the best certification programs in South Carolina?
Are there alternative routes to teacher certification in South Carolina?
How much does it cost to get a teaching certification in South Carolina?
How long does it take to get certified as a teacher in South Carolina?
How do you renew South Carolina teaching certification?
What is the job outlook for certified teachers in South Carolina?
Is teacher certification in South Carolina transferable to other states?
What are the benefits of having a teacher certification in South Carolina?
What challenges might you face during the certification process in South Carolina?
Other Things You Need to Know About Teacher Certification Types and Requirements in South Carolina

What are the different types of teaching certifications in South Carolina?

The state’s educator certificate categories reflect a nuanced system designed to accommodate diverse backgrounds and professional journeys. Whether you are a new graduate or a career changer, South Carolina offers multiple routes to enter and progress within the teaching profession.

Below are the different types of teaching certification and license offered in the state:

Initial Certificate: This entry-level license is for first-time educators who have completed an approved teacher preparation program and passed required assessments, allowing them to teach under supervision while gaining experience.
Professional Certificate: Awarded to teachers who have demonstrated classroom effectiveness and completed induction and evaluation requirements, this certificate enables independent teaching for a five-year term.
Alternative Route Certification: Designed for individuals with a bachelor’s degree but without traditional teacher preparation, this pathway supports career changers and professionals transitioning into education.
Provisional or Temporary License: Granted to candidates still completing certification requirements but already employed in teaching positions, often utilized by those in alternative certification programs.
Emergency or Substitute Permits: Issued for short-term or temporary teaching needs, these permits allow individuals who do not meet full certification criteria to fill staffing gaps.
Subject-Specific and Special Education Endorsements: These endorsements target educators specializing in particular subjects or populations, such as special education or English as a Second Language, providing additional certification layers.
Advanced Professional Licenses: For experienced educators pursuing leadership roles or advanced credentials, these licenses recognize further professional development and specialization.

Each category has distinct requirements, but a foundational step for many is completing an approved teacher preparation program or equivalent alternative.

Prospective educators interested in exploring these diverse pathways further might consider reviewing rankings of the best bachelors in education online to identify programs aligned with South Carolina’s certification standards.

What are the education requirements to become a certified teacher in South Carolina?

Becoming a certified teacher in South Carolina demands more than just passion; it requires meeting specific academic and practical preparation standards. These education requirements ensure candidates are equipped to enter classrooms with both deep knowledge and effective teaching skills.

The education requirements for teacher certification in South Carolina include:

Bachelor’s Degree: A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution is essential for traditional certification routes, though some programs permit earning this degree concurrently with teacher preparation coursework.
State-Approved Preparation Program: Candidates must complete a state-approved teacher preparation program that blends subject-specific studies with pedagogical training, aligning with South Carolina’s certification standards.
Specialized Coursework: Coursework must cover both the content area intended for teaching and the principles of pedagogy, tailored to the chosen grade level and subject to meet state guidelines.
Student Teaching Experience: A supervised practicum or student teaching placement, typically lasting a full semester, provides hands-on classroom experience to develop practical teaching skills before independent classroom leadership.
Supplemental Training: Alternative certification paths or district programs may require additional training modules such as classroom management or online readiness programs, sometimes involving extensive hours of flexible online instruction.
Alternative Certification Options: For those holding a bachelor’s degree but lacking traditional preparation, South Carolina offers alternative pathways, including post-baccalaureate certification programs or master’s degrees with certification components.

South Carolina’s system balances structure with flexibility, welcoming professionals from diverse backgrounds through multiple routes. To explore programs that fit varied needs, prospective teachers can consult a list of best online education degrees recognized for their quality and accessibility.

This chart highlights the most common majors among certified teachers, emphasizing fields like Elementary Education, General Education, and Psychology. It illustrates the typical academic backgrounds of those pursuing certification in South Carolina and reinforces the value of selecting a major aligned with your teaching career goals.

What tests are required for teacher certification in South Carolina?

The following test requirements to become a certified teacher in South Carolina challenge aspiring educators to prove their readiness across multiple dimensions, ensuring they are equipped not just to teach, but to inspire and lead in diverse classroom settings.

Basic Skills Assessment: Before entering an undergraduate teacher preparation program, candidates must pass a test covering reading, mathematics, and writing, confirming essential academic competencies. Exceptions exist for those with qualifying SAT or ACT scores approved by the South Carolina State Board of Education.
Praxis Subject Assessments: Often called Praxis II, these exams focus on the subject and grade level candidates intend to teach, requiring them to demonstrate deep content knowledge. Passing at least one of these subject-specific tests is mandatory prior to employment as a teacher in South Carolina.
Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) Assessment: This exam evaluates pedagogical understanding through a mix of selected-response and constructed-response questions, tailored to various grade bands such as Early Childhood or 7-12. It emphasizes the theory and practice of effective teaching strategies aligned with the intended teaching level.
Additional Performance and Program Requirements: Beyond standardized testing, candidates must complete a supervised student teaching internship or equivalent field experience within an approved teacher education program. This hands-on component is critical to translate theoretical knowledge into practical classroom skills and is required for certification eligibility.

This image highlights how thousands of educators continue to pursue advanced credentials, with more than 3,000 teachers earning National Board Certification in the 2022–23 school year. It underscores the importance of testing and certification as key milestones in a teacher’s professional journey, especially in states like South Carolina.

The number of teachers who earned National Board Certification in 2023.

What are the best certification programs in South Carolina?

Traditional certification routes remain the backbone for many aspiring educators in the state, offering comprehensive preparation aligned with state standards and ensuring readiness for classroom challenges. These programs provide a clear pathway for recent graduates seeking initial certification and set a high bar for quality teaching.

South Carolina’s traditional programs include:

University of South Carolina (USC) College of Education: USC’s well-regarded programs offer undergraduate and graduate degrees leading to certification in various fields such as early childhood, elementary, secondary, and special education. The college emphasizes extensive field placements and mentoring, resulting in strong Praxis exam pass rates.
Clemson University College of Education: Focused on research-driven instruction and immersive classroom experiences, Clemson partners closely with local districts to provide practicum and student teaching opportunities. Graduates are recognized statewide for their preparedness and expertise.
College of Charleston School of Education: This program prioritizes culturally responsive teaching and urban education, with placements in diverse settings across Charleston County, equipping candidates to meet the varied needs of South Carolina’s student population.
Winthrop University Richard W. Riley College of Education: Known for its emphasis on clinical practice and community engagement, Winthrop’s programs align with evolving certification standards and boast high graduation and employment rates among teacher candidates.

To pursue South Carolina teacher certification for career changers or recent graduates, candidates must complete an approved educator preparation program, hold a bachelor’s degree, and pass Praxis exams.

For those interested in exploring flexible options, a list of most affordable online education degree programs may also offer viable pathways.

Are there alternative routes to teacher certification in South Carolina?

South Carolina’s approach to teacher certification includes breaking away from the traditional mold, offering a variety of alternative routes tailored for those who bring diverse experiences and expertise to the classroom.

These pathways recognize that effective educators come from many backgrounds, not just those with formal education degrees. Here are the main alternative certification options and their key features:

Eligibility Requirements: Most programs require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, passing a background check, and acceptance into an approved alternative certification program.
PACE (Program of Alternative Certification for Educators): Designed for individuals holding a bachelor’s or graduate degree related to a PACE-approved teaching area, this program allows participants to teach full-time in their subject while completing coursework, mentoring, and teaching experience over three years.
Teachers of Tomorrow: Open to bachelor’s degree holders without formal teacher preparation, this pathway blends learning, coaching, and classroom support as candidates teach full-time, culminating in standard certification.
CATE/CTE Work-Based Certification: Targeting professionals with career and technical work experience, this route enables teaching at the secondary level in fields such as business or health sciences, requiring training, coursework, and exams within five years.
Unique Features: Candidates often teach full-time while earning certification, receive structured mentorship, and may participate in district-specific programs designed to address high-demand teaching areas.

When I asked a teacher from South Carolina about his journey through an alternative certification route, he shared how daunting yet empowering the process was. “I didn’t have a traditional education background, so initially, I wondered if I’d fit in,” he said. Balancing a full-time teaching load while completing required coursework and exams tested his resilience.

“There were moments of exhaustion, but the mentorship helped me stay grounded and confident.” His story reflects how these alternative pathways not only open doors but also provide meaningful support to navigate the complexities of entering the teaching profession unconventionally.

“It’s challenging, yes, but it’s also a unique way to grow both as an educator and as a person,” he concluded, highlighting the deeply personal transformation embedded in South Carolina’s alternative certification experience.

How much does it cost to get a teaching certification in South Carolina?

Understanding the cost of teaching certification in South Carolina requires examining multiple expense categories that go beyond just tuition. For those entering through a traditional undergraduate teacher preparation program, in-state tuition at public universities generally falls between $10,000 and $13,000 per year. Private institutions often charge significantly more, making it important to weigh value against price carefully.

Graduate teacher preparation programs, which often appeal to those seeking advanced certification or salary increases, typically range from $12,000 to $22,000 in total tuition for in-state students. Out-of-state fees can be considerably higher. For prospective candidates interested in alternative routes, programs like South Carolina Teachers of Tomorrow offer a more affordable pathway with a total cost around $4,395, including enrollment and monthly access fees until employment.

Additional required expenses frequently catch candidates off guard. Application and certification fees are around $105, while fingerprinting and background checks add another $50–$60. Exam fees, such as the Praxis Subject Assessments, range from $90 to $150 per test, and most candidates will need multiple exams. Furthermore, materials like textbooks and study guides can add $200–$500 in costs.

Teachers must renew their certification every five years, which involves completing 120 hours of renewal credits through coursework or professional development, though no renewal fee applies. Financial aid options do exist, including the South Carolina Teacher Loan Program, which offers forgivable loans for those in critical subject areas. Some districts and universities provide scholarships or tuition assistance, particularly for candidates targeting high-need certifications.

For those weighing graduate options, it’s worth exploring masters programs for teachers that balance affordability with program quality, potentially easing the financial burden on aspiring educators pursuing certification in South Carolina.

How long does it take to get certified as a teacher in South Carolina?

The time it takes to get certified as a teacher in South Carolina depends on your educational background, chosen pathway, and personal circumstances. Here’s an overview of how long each option typically takes and the key factors that can speed up or extend your timeline.

Traditional Bachelor’s Degree Pathway: Typically, earning teacher certification through a four-year bachelor’s degree in education involves beginning certification coursework and field experiences by the junior year. Student teaching, a mandatory 12-week internship, usually occurs in the senior year. This route generally takes four to five years in total.
Post-Baccalaureate Certification: For those holding a bachelor’s degree in another field, post-baccalaureate or graduate-level teacher preparation programs provide a faster route. These often require one to two years to complete coursework, field experiences, and a similar 12-week student teaching internship. This pathway balances speed with comprehensive preparation.
Alternative Certification Programs: Designed for career changers or those seeking flexibility, alternative programs such as those from American Board or South Carolina Teachers enable candidates to pursue certification more rapidly. Candidates complete online coursework at their own pace, sometimes in under a year, followed by passing required exams. Teaching begins with an Internship Certificate, with three years of mentored teaching required before earning a Professional Certificate.
Coursework and Exam Preparation: Traditional programs integrate exam preparation over several years, while alternative and post-baccalaureate candidates may dedicate weeks to months solely for exam study. This focused preparation can accelerate or delay certification depending on individual circumstances.
Student Teaching and Internships: All certification routes mandate a student teaching or internship experience—approximately 12 weeks for traditional and post-baccalaureate candidates, and three academic years of supervised teaching for alternative certification participants.
Accelerated and Part-Time Options: Some South Carolina colleges offer accelerated or evening programs that shorten certification timeframes for those able to commit more hours. Conversely, part-time study, work commitments, or delayed application processes can extend the timeline considerably.
Timeline Influencing Factors: Transfer credits, prior teaching experience, and early exam completion can shorten certification time, whereas delays in background checks, paperwork, or exam scheduling can prolong it. Prospective teachers should weigh these variables carefully when choosing their pathway.

How do you renew South Carolina teaching certification?

Renewing a teaching certification in South Carolina is more than just checking off a task every five years — it requires thoughtful planning, commitment to professional growth, and careful attention to evolving state requirements. Below are the key steps and criteria every educator should know to keep their credentials active and in good standing:

Certification Validity: Teaching certificates in South Carolina are valid for five years and must be renewed at the end of each cycle to maintain the legal authority to teach.
Renewal Credits: Educators with a Professional certificate must earn at least 120 renewal credits within each five-year period. Credits can be earned through academic coursework (1 semester hour equals 20 credits), Continuing Education Units (CEUs, with 1 CEU equaling 10 credits), and approved professional development activities aligned with an individual growth plan.
Mandatory Endorsements: Required endorsements include the Read to Succeed (R2S) endorsement for Early Childhood, Elementary, ESOL, Special Education, and Montessori teachers, plus Jason Flatt Act suicide awareness training for middle and high school educators.
Upcoming Changes: Beginning July 1, 2026, completing a district’s annual professional development program alone will fulfill all renewal credit requirements for new cycles, streamlining the renewal process.
Application Process: Renewal applications must be submitted online through the South Carolina Department of Education’s certification portal, with supporting documentation for credits, endorsements, and payment of any applicable fees.
Background Checks: A background check may be required during renewal, especially if there has been a break in service or if the certification has lapsed.
Lapsed Certifications: If a certification expires, educators must meet current renewal requirements and may need additional coursework based on the length of the lapse before reinstatement is granted.

Additional Professional Growth: For those interested in advancing their credentials efficiently, exploring the shortest EdD online degrees can be a practical route to gaining renewal credits through academic coursework.

This chart highlights key skills that certified teachers frequently include on their resumes, such as classroom management, instruction materials, and professional development. These competencies align closely with South Carolina’s renewal requirements, reinforcing how continuous skill-building and documented growth play a vital role in maintaining certification.

What is the job outlook for certified teachers in South Carolina?

Recent labor market trends suggest a steady demand for certified educators across the state, driven by targeted initiatives to address teacher shortages in key subject areas and regions. Diverse school districts in metropolitan and rural areas alike are actively recruiting teachers, offering competitive salary packages and career advancement opportunities. Educators benefit from structured mentoring programs and continuing professional development initiatives that support long-term career growth. For those pursuing niche areas such as music education, learn from our article on how to become a music teacher in South Carolina to further enhance your career trajectory.

Is teacher certification in South Carolina transferable to other states?

Transferring a South Carolina teaching certificate to another state can be complicated, as each state sets its own licensure standards despite reciprocity agreements like the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement. While this network connects South Carolina with states such as Georgia, Texas, and North Carolina, it doesn’t guarantee automatic acceptance of credentials. Teachers often need to submit additional documentation, complete background checks, or pass state-specific exams.

Many states issue temporary or provisional licenses so teachers can start working while meeting outstanding requirements like extra coursework or testing. However, not all certificates—especially temporary or alternative ones—qualify for reciprocity, which can add unexpected steps to the transfer process. Researching your target state’s rules and staying in touch with its education department can help you avoid surprises.

One South Carolina-certified teacher shared how she underestimated the time and paperwork involved in transferring her license. She described waiting for her application to be reviewed and preparing for unexpected exams as stressful, but the provisional license helped her begin teaching right away. Her experience shows that persistence, flexibility, and good planning are key to navigating an interstate move successfully.

What are the benefits of having a teacher certification in South Carolina?

Obtaining a teaching certification in South Carolina unlocks numerous advantages that extend beyond simply meeting state requirements. This credential not only broadens your professional horizons but also strengthens your financial stability and career longevity.

Below are several key benefits that illustrate why certification is a crucial step for educators committed to making a lasting impact.

Expanded Job Prospects: Certification qualifies you for employment in public and charter schools, as well as specialized programs, where demand remains high, particularly in fields like special education.
Increased Earnings: Certified teachers earn salaries above the state average, with many districts offering additional pay for endorsements or advanced certifications, directly enhancing your income potential.
Enhanced Job Security and Benefits: Certification provides access to comprehensive health insurance, retirement plans, paid leave, and professional association memberships that offer legal and advocacy support.
Leadership and Specialized Roles: With certification, you become eligible for leadership positions such as instructional coach or department head, and can pursue endorsements that broaden your teaching scope.
Ongoing Professional Growth: State and local resources support certified teachers through continuous development opportunities, fostering skill advancement and career progression.
State Incentives: South Carolina offers benefits like loan forgiveness for educators in shortage areas and stipends for those with credentials in high-demand subjects, encouraging retention and specialization.
Improved Teaching Effectiveness: Certification programs emphasize best practices in classroom management and instructional strategies, which enhance student learning outcomes and enrich your teaching experience.

This image illustrates the vast scale of certified teachers in the U.S., with over 2 million employed nationwide. It highlights the value and prevalence of certification, reinforcing why pursuing official credentials in South Carolina can lead to broader opportunities and greater career stability within a competitive national landscape.

Employment of certified teachers in the US.

What Teachers in South Carolina Say About Their Certification

Getting my teaching certification in South Carolina has truly transformed my career. The flexibility to work in various districts across the state allows me to balance my personal life and professional growth seamlessly. Plus, the average salaries here are very competitive, making this path both rewarding and sustainable. Marlon
As a certified teacher in South Carolina, I’ve found incredible opportunities for advancement that I hadn’t expected. The clear pathways to leadership roles and specialized positions motivate me every day. It’s empowering to know that my certification opens doors to a fulfilling career with upward mobility. Latoya
South Carolina’s commitment to professional development for certified teachers has been a game changer in my teaching journey. Through ongoing workshops and state-sponsored programs, I continuously enhance my skills and stay current with educational trends. This support makes me feel valued and confident in delivering the best for my students. Daniel

What challenges might you face during the certification process in South Carolina?

Candidates often encounter challenges that can extend the timeline and complicate the certification process. Navigating administrative delays, managing concurrent work or study commitments, and adapting to evolving state requirements are common obstacles. Additionally, preparing for multiple exams and meeting financial obligations without overspending can be stressful. Exploring resources such as the cheapest way to get a teaching credential in South Carolina may help mitigate financial pressure while ensuring compliance with certification standards.

Other Things You Need to Know About Teacher Certification Types and Requirements in South Carolina

Can you get teacher certification in South Carolina with a non-teaching degree?

In South Carolina, it is possible to obtain teacher certification without holding a traditional teaching degree by completing an alternative certification program approved by the South Carolina Department of Education. These programs are designed for individuals who have a bachelor’s degree in a non-education field and wish to transition into teaching. Candidates must pass required content-area exams and complete pedagogical training, often while teaching under supervision.

According to the South Carolina Department of Education, alternative certification routes have expanded to address teacher shortages, especially in high-demand subjects. This pathway allows career changers and graduates from various disciplines to meet state licensure requirements and enter the teaching profession.

Is there an age limit for teacher certification in South Carolina?

There is no age limit for obtaining teaching certification in South Carolina. The South Carolina Department of Education focuses on qualifications such as education, background checks, and passing required exams rather than age restrictions. This inclusive policy supports a diverse teaching workforce, allowing career changers and individuals at any stage of life to pursue certification.

According to the department, candidates must hold at least a bachelor’s degree and meet professional standards, but age does not factor into eligibility. This approach aligns with broader state efforts to address teacher shortages by encouraging qualified applicants regardless of age.

Can I teach while earning my certification in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, it is possible to teach while earning your certification through options like provisional licenses and alternative certification pathways. These credentials allow prospective teachers to work in the classroom under the guidance of a mentor or experienced educator, providing practical experience as they complete certification requirements.

This approach supports candidates by blending hands-on teaching with ongoing professional development, making it a practical choice for those transitioning into education or seeking to gain classroom experience while completing their certification.

Does South Carolina accept international teaching credentials?

Yes—South Carolina will credential international teachers, but you must navigate a multi-step process:

Credential Evaluation: Have your degrees and transcripts reviewed by an SCDE-approved evaluation service (e.g., WES, ECE) to confirm U.S. equivalency.
English Proficiency: Demonstrate fluency via TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent.
Supplemental Requirements: You may need to complete state-mandated coursework or pass Praxis exams to fill any gaps.
Apply Early: Contact the SCDE Office of Educator Certification before you begin, so you understand specific deadlines, fees, and documentation.

Following these steps ensures your international credentials align with South Carolina’s standards and fast-tracks your path to the classroom.