How to Become a Certified Medication Aide in South Carolina
If you want a fast, affordable way to start a healthcare career in South Carolina, becoming a Certified Medication Aide (CMA) is an excellent option! CMAs are nursing assistants who earn additional credentials to help patients safely receive their medications. With a salary range of around $36,370 per year in South Carolina (according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics), and growing demand for healthcare workers, now is a great time to train for this role.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to become a Certified Medication Aide in South Carolina, what training is required, how long it takes, and how to get certified.
Key Points
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A Certified Medication Aide (CMA) is a healthcare professional who administers medications under the supervision of licensed nurses.
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To become a CMA in South Carolina, you need to hold an active CNA certification, complete a state-approved training program, and pass the certification exam.
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CMA training takes 4 to 8 weeks (60-140 hours).
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The average salary for CMAs in South Carolina is $36,370 per year ($17.49/hour), according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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South Carolina employs thousands of CNAs and CMAs, with new job openings every year due to the state’s aging population.
6. Continue Your Education to Advance Your Career
You can pursue advanced roles such as:
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Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
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Pharmacy Technician
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Medical Assistant (MA)
Many CMAs go on to become LPNs or RNs with additional training.
Where to Find Medication Aide Classes in South Carolina
If you’re ready to start CMA training, Dreambound is the largest online platform that helps students compare vocational programs and the best part is it's free to use! On Dreambound, you can search for Medication Aide classes in South Carolina and compare training providers.
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What is Dreambound: Dreambound helps you find, compare, and enroll in career and technical education programs across the U.S.
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What Dreambound offers: More than 70 programs in healthcare, tech, business, and skilled trades—including Medical Billing, Welding, Cybersecurity, and more.
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Financial aid: Some programs on Dreambound offer financial aid or payment plans.
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Online classes: Many schools you can find on the Dreambound site offer online, in-person, or hybrid options.
Career Paths and Opportunities After Becoming a Medication Aide
Becoming a Certified Medication Aide (CMA) can lead to higher-paying healthcare roles, including:
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) – Advance to an LPN role with 12-18 months of additional training. LPN programs will teach you how to perform more complex patient care tasks and medication administration.
- Pharmacy Technician – Taking up pharmacy training can be ideal for those who prefer working with medications but not direct patient care.
- Medical Assistant (MA) – Gain administrative and clinical experience by signing up for an MA training program and learn how to assist with vital signs, exams, and office tasks!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a Certified Medication Aide in South Carolina?
Most programs take 4 to 8 weeks, with 60-140 hours of instruction and clinical practice.
How much does it cost to renew a Medication Aide license in South Carolina?
CMA renewal fees in South Carolina include:
- Renewal every 2 years – Fee varies by provider
- Continuing education (CE) requirements – Typically 7+ hours of state-approved training
To avoid late fees, complete your required CE hours and submit your renewal application before your license expiration date.
Can I be a Medication Aide without being a CNA in South Carolina?
No — in South Carolina, you must first hold an active Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification before you can enroll in a Medication Aide (CMA) training program.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a Certified Medication Aide (CMA) in South Carolina is an excellent entry point into healthcare, offering stability, career growth, and rewarding patient care opportunities. Whether you stay in medication administration or advance into higher healthcare roles, this is a strong career choice.
Ready to start your journey? Explore state-approved Medication Aide programs near you today with Dreambound!
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Athena is Co-founder and CEO of Dreambound.
