Teacher Certification Types & Requirements in Kansas for 2025

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Teaching certification in Kansas not only validates your expertise but also enhances your professional credibility and opportunities within the state’s diverse educational landscape. Kansas offers multiple certification types tailored to various educational levels and subject areas, reflecting the state’s commitment to high teaching standards and student success.

Pursuing certification in the state means joining a community dedicated to shaping future generations while enjoying the benefits of competitive salaries and professional development. Exploring this article will equip you with essential insights into Kansas’s certification requirements, guiding your path forward.

Key Points About Teacher Certification Types and Requirements in Kansas

Kansas offers several certification types, such as initial, standard, and master teaching licenses, each requiring specific education, exams, and classroom experience.
The state projects steady growth for certified teachers with an average salary around $58,000, reflecting competitive pay in the Midwest region.
Kansas’ supportive communities and diverse school districts create ideal conditions for educators seeking a rewarding, stable career with room for professional growth.

What are the different types of teaching certifications in Kansas?
What are the education requirements to become a certified teacher in Kansas?
What tests are required for teacher certification in Kansas?
What are the best certification programs in Kansas?
Are there alternative routes to teacher certification in Kansas?
How much does it cost to get a teaching certification in Kansas?
How long does it take to get certified as a teacher in Kansas?
How do you renew Kansas teaching certification?
How can I specialize in music education with certification in Kansas?
Is teacher certification in Kansas transferable to other states?
What are the benefits of having a teacher certification in Kansas?
What is the most affordable route to certification in Kansas?
Other Things You Need to Know About Teacher Certification Types and Requirements in Kansas

What are the different types of teaching certifications in Kansas?

Embarking on a teaching career in Kansas opens a variety of pathways tailored to different stages and aspirations within education. The state’s licensing system is designed to accommodate newcomers, experienced educators, and those seeking specialized roles.

If you're curious about the types of teaching licenses in Kansas, here’s a clear guide to what each credential entails and the basic requirements that accompany them.

Initial Teaching License: This entry-level license is for new teachers who have completed an approved teacher preparation program and are ready to start teaching in K-12 public schools.
Professional Teaching License: For educators with classroom experience who have passed the state’s teaching performance assessment, this license supports continuing and advancing teaching careers in Kansas.
Accomplished Teaching License: Awarded to teachers who hold National Board Certification, this advanced credential acknowledges expertise and is valid longer than other licenses.
Provisional Teaching License: A temporary credential for candidates finishing specific requirements, often granted when academic or assessment conditions are still pending.
Restricted or Alternative Route License: Designed for career changers or those without a traditional teaching background, this license allows working while completing necessary coursework or training.
Substitute and Emergency Substitute Licenses: These permits enable individuals to serve as substitute teachers regularly or fill urgent short-term vacancies in schools.
Subject-Specific and Special Education Endorsements: Licensed teachers can earn endorsements in areas like special education or ESL to specialize or expand their teaching assignments.
School Specialist and Leadership Licenses: These licenses are for non-classroom roles such as counselors and librarians or for those pursuing administrative positions like principals.

For those exploring education as a career or looking for unique roles beyond the classroom, Kansas offers diverse options that cater to many interests. If you’re curious about jobs with education degree not teaching, this variety of licenses and endorsements might open doors you hadn’t considered.

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

Becoming a certified teacher in Kansas means meeting specific academic and professional requirements designed to prepare you for the classroom. The Kansas State Department of Education sets these standards to ensure consistent quality and relevance. Completing them helps you start a strong, rewarding teaching career.

Bachelor’s Degree Completion: You must have earned a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university before applying for your initial teaching license.
Approved Teacher Education Program: Completing a KSDE-approved teacher education program is essential, combining teaching theory with subject-specific coursework tailored to your endorsement area.
Recent Coursework Requirement: To keep your knowledge fresh, you need to have completed at least eight semester hours of college credit within the past six years.
Student Teaching Experience: A supervised practicum or student teaching placement in a real classroom setting is mandatory, giving you hands-on experience under expert mentorship.
Grade Point Average Standard: Maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.75 on the most recent 60 semester credit hours demonstrates your academic readiness for teaching.
Additional Training Modules: Depending on your licensure area, you may be required to complete extra coursework or specialized training, such as TESOL endorsements, to broaden your qualifications.

For those curious about expanding their educational expertise beyond traditional pathways, exploring an online library science degree might offer unique opportunities to complement teaching credentials within Kansas’s accredited teacher preparation programs.

The pie chart highlights Kansas’s decision to maintain broad entry requirements for teacher certification. While many candidates hold degrees in Elementary Education or related fields, a significant portion come from a variety of other majors. As long as these individuals complete a KSDE-approved program, recent coursework, and student teaching, they remain eligible to enter the teaching profession.

What tests are required for teacher certification in Kansas?

Becoming a certified teacher in Kansas requires completing a set of assessments designed to measure your teaching knowledge and skills. These exams help ensure you’re prepared to lead a classroom effectively.

Below is an overview of the key tests you’ll need to pass for certification in Kansas.

Subject Area Assessment: You must pass at least one Praxis Subject Assessment that aligns with your intended teaching endorsement. For example, Elementary Education candidates need to take the updated Praxis 7001 test, with a transition deadline for older tests set for August 31, 2025.
Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) Assessment: This test matches your teaching level or specialization, with versions ranging from Early Childhood to PreK-12. Most require a passing score of 160, except the PreK-12 PLT, which requires 157.
Performance Assessment (Program-Specific): Some preparation programs, like Fort Hays State University, require a performance-based assessment such as the TIGER Teacher Work Sample, completed during student teaching to demonstrate practical skills.
Fingerprinting & Background Check: Before licensure, first-time applicants must complete fingerprinting and background checks through the Kansas Bureau of Investigation and FBI, ensuring safety and trustworthiness in the classroom.
Score Reporting Procedures: Kansas automatically sends your Praxis test scores to the State Department of Education, and you can choose up to four additional score recipients at no cost when registering for exams.

The growing number of teachers earning National Board Certification shows that advanced credentials offer value beyond Kansas’s basic Praxis and PLT exam requirements. While not mandatory, this certification demonstrates a higher level of teaching expertise, can improve job prospects, and helps educators stand out in a competitive field. Pursuing it is a strategic move for long-term career growth and professional recognition.

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

What are the best certification programs in Kansas?

Exploring the best traditional teacher certification programs in Kansas reveals a strong network of institutions dedicated to preparing future educators through rigorous coursework and hands-on experience. These programs support students aiming for a teaching career by combining academic study with practical student teaching opportunities.

Kansas State University: College of Education: Offers comprehensive undergraduate and graduate programs with endorsements in Early Childhood Unified, Elementary, Secondary, and PK-12 education. Known for excellent mentor support and high pass rates on licensure exams, candidates complete state-approved coursework and Praxis exams alongside student teaching.
Fort Hays State University: Teacher Education Programs: Provides accessible traditional certification routes at undergraduate and graduate levels, focusing on major coursework and a full semester of student teaching. Programs include Early Childhood Unified, Elementary (PreK-6), and Secondary (6-12, PreK-12) education, all approved by the Kansas State Board of Education.
Emporia State University: The Teachers College: Recognized as a top producer of teachers, this college offers pathways in Elementary, Secondary, and Special Education with strong emphasis on classroom experience and practical learning. Graduates are well-prepared for the licensing process through accredited programs.
University of Kansas: School of Education & Human Sciences: Features a variety of traditional certification programs, including Elementary, Secondary, and Special Education. The curriculum integrates rigorous coursework with extensive student teaching partnerships across Kansas school districts.
Wichita State University: College of Applied Studies: Emphasizes urban education and close collaboration with local schools. Students complete necessary coursework, field experiences, and student teaching to meet Kansas licensure requirements.

Each program aligns with the Kansas State Board of Education’s standards, requiring successful completion of a bachelor’s degree, education coursework, student teaching, and passing Praxis assessments.

For those curious about affordable options, exploring cheap online degrees in education can offer additional flexibility while pursuing certification. These structured routes form the backbone of the best alternative teacher certification programs in Kansas, ensuring a steady pipeline of qualified educators ready to meet the state’s diverse classroom needs.

Are there alternative routes to teacher certification in Kansas?

Alternative routes to teacher certification in Kansas offer a flexible option for those who didn’t earn a traditional education degree. These programs are designed for career changers, professionals with degrees in other fields, and school staff who want to become licensed teachers. They provide a practical way to transition into the classroom while meeting state requirements.

Here’s a closer look at what Kansas offers:

Eligibility: A bachelor’s degree in any field is essential, along with passing the Praxis Subject Tests or holding recognized industry certifications for certain technical subjects.
Transition to Teaching (T2T) Programs: These two-year programs blend graduate-level coursework with full-time paid teaching, available in-person, online, or hybrid formats. They lead to full licensure and can culminate in a Master of Arts in Teaching.
Limited Elementary Apprentice License (LERP): Designed for those hired as elementary teachers, this 100% online program starts with a preliminary semester of coursework, then grants supervised classroom teaching through the LERP, leading to full licensure or a master’s degree.
Teacher Apprentice and Para-Educator Pathways: Tailored for paraprofessionals and aides with at least a two-year degree, these accelerated online programs let candidates earn degrees while working, emphasizing flexibility.
Special Education Waivers and Provisional Licenses: Licensed teachers may gain special education credentials by teaching while completing required coursework, with provisional licenses issued during the process.
Unique Features: Paid, full-time teaching roles during training, cohort-based mentorship, and flexible online options make these routes accessible and supportive, especially for busy adults and career switchers.

When I asked a Kansas-certified teacher about these alternative routes, he shared a vivid account of his journey. Having shifted careers after years in business, he found the Transition to Teaching program both challenging and rewarding. “Balancing full-time teaching with graduate coursework felt like a marathon,” he recalled, “but the paid position eased financial stress, and the cohort support was invaluable.”

He also emphasized how the program’s design helped him gain real classroom experience quickly, which boosted his confidence. “It wasn’t just academic; it was immersive and practical. I learned as much from my students as they did from me.” His story highlights the adventurous spirit these alternative routes encourage and the real possibilities they open for those ready to embrace a new professional chapter in Kansas education.

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

Exploring the cost to get a teaching certification in Kansas reveals a range of expenses depending on the educational path chosen. For those pursuing a traditional undergraduate route, tuition at public universities for in-state students typically falls between $8,000 to $12,000 per year, with out-of-state fees climbing above $20,000 annually. These programs usually span four years, setting the foundation for a teaching career.

Graduate programs, such as the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) at Kansas State University, charge around $551.14 per credit hour for the 2024–2025 academic year. Since the MAT requires about 31 to 33 credit hours, total tuition can range from approximately $17,000 to $18,200. Costs may vary depending on residency and institution, but this gives a solid estimate for budgeting.

Alternative certification programs offer a different path and typically cost between $10,000 and $20,000. These post-baccalaureate options provide flexibility for career changers or those seeking quicker certification routes.

Additional required expenses include exam fees, with Praxis subject assessments costing between $120 and $150 each. Fingerprinting and background checks add roughly $50 to $60, while the Kansas teacher license application fee ranges from $60 to $85. Renewal fees are similar and required every five years. Prospective teachers should also budget for materials and student teaching fees, which can total several hundred dollars.

Financial aid opportunities help ease these costs. Kansas offers teacher service scholarships for high-need subject areas, federal TEACH grants for students committed to teaching in low-income schools, and loan forgiveness programs targeting shortage or high-need areas. For those considering graduate options, exploring masters in education online cheap can also provide affordable pathways to certification.

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

Becoming a certified teacher in Kansas can follow different paths, each with its own steps and timeline. Your route may depend on your education background and career goals. The guide below outlines the main options to help you get started.

Traditional Bachelor’s Degree Pathway: Typically a four-year adventure, this route involves completing a full bachelor’s degree in education at a Kansas college or university. Alongside coursework, you’ll engage in a student teaching placement lasting about one full academic year or eight credits, providing essential hands-on experience.
Post-Baccalaureate Certification: If you already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field, this option lets you dive into teacher preparation programs at the post-baccalaureate or master’s level. These programs generally take between 12 to 24 months and include both coursework and student teaching components.
Alternative Certification Programs: Designed especially for career changers, these pathways can be as swift as one year but may extend to two years depending on whether you study full- or part-time. Kansas offers several options that combine coursework with practical teaching experience.
Student Teaching or Internship: Regardless of the path, completing a supervised teaching experience is mandatory, usually during the final year of your program, providing a real classroom setting to apply your skills.
Exam Preparation: Passing state-required exams like the Praxis content and pedagogy assessments is crucial. Most candidates begin preparing several months ahead, often overlapping with their student teaching year.
Application and Processing Time: Once all requirements are met and documentation submitted, expect a 4-8 week processing period by the Kansas State Department of Education.

Several factors can influence this timeline:

Accelerated Programs: Institutions like the University of Kansas and Kansas State University offer intensive tracks that may shorten your journey, especially if you have prior relevant coursework or teaching experience.
Part-Time Study: Balancing work or other commitments often means part-time enrollment, which naturally extends the time needed to complete the program.
Transfer Credits: Bringing in approved credits from other accredited institutions can reduce your overall time to certification.
Exam Retakes: Preparing early can help avoid delays caused by failing required exams, which otherwise add months to your timeline.

Overall, prospective teachers in Kansas can expect to spend anywhere from one to four years becoming certified, depending on their educational background and chosen certification pathway. This exciting journey combines academic rigor, practical experience, and personal growth—setting the stage for a rewarding teaching career.

How do you renew Kansas teaching certification?

Renewing your teaching certification in Kansas is an important journey that ensures you remain qualified and ready to inspire the next generation. Whether you hold an initial or professional license, understanding the renewal process can feel like navigating a fascinating path of professional growth and compliance.

Below is a clear outline to guide you through the essential steps and requirements for keeping your certification active and valid.

License Validity and Renewal Timeline: License renewal frequency varies. The initial license lasts 2 years, requiring renewal or upgrade before expiration with a 3-year grace period; the professional license is valid for 5 years and must be renewed on time to avoid a lapse.
Required Professional Development Points: Professional development points are crucial. Educators with a bachelor’s degree need 160 points, including at least 80 from college credit through approved programs, while those with a graduate degree require 120 points or 8 college credit hours.
Renewal Documentation and Forms: Documentation involves submitting the KSDE renewal form (such as Form 20) along with verified professional development credits and paying a renewal fee, which should be checked on the KSDE website for the latest amount.
Online Application Portal: Renewal applications are processed through the KSDE Educator Licensure Application System, an online portal where teachers manage their license status and upload necessary documents.
Background Check Requirements: Background checks may be required, especially if the license has lapsed or if upgrading; staying updated with KSDE’s requirements is essential.
Consequences of Lapsed Certification: If your certification lapses, you cannot teach in Kansas public schools until reinstated; after five years, reinstatement requires additional evidence such as recent coursework or retesting.
Suggested Renewal Timeline: Starting the renewal process up to six months before expiration is recommended to avoid employment interruptions, and after renewal, printing the updated license and submitting it to your school district is advised.
Advanced Credential Opportunities: For educators seeking to enhance their credentials or explore advanced degrees, exploring fully funded EdD programs online free can be a valuable opportunity, aligning with professional development goals in Kansas.

The skills chart below highlights why Kansas links license renewal to structured professional development—schools prioritize proven strengths like subject expertise, child-centered strategies, classroom management, and safety training. Direct your required points toward the skill areas you want to showcase in future evaluations or promotion opportunities.

How can I specialize in music education with certification in Kansas?

Educators aiming to focus on music bring unique creative skills to the classroom and should be aware of additional subject-specific requirements. Music education certification in Kansas typically involves supplementary assessments and endorsements that validate your expertise in both general teaching competencies and specialized music instruction. These processes are designed to ensure that music teachers not only meet state standards in pedagogy but also demonstrate proficiency in musical theory, performance, and classroom application. For detailed information on the specialized pathway, refer to our guide on how to become a music teacher in Kansas. This approach supports a targeted career trajectory that highlights both artistic talent and professional readiness.

Is teacher certification in Kansas transferable to other states?

Transferring a Kansas teaching certification to another state is often possible thanks to Kansas’s participation in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement and the Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact. These agreements simplify—but do not eliminate—the steps required to become licensed elsewhere.

While states like Alabama, Colorado, Oklahoma, and Florida generally accept Kansas credentials, applicants usually still need to submit documentation, pay fees, and pass a background check.

Most states offer a temporary or provisional license that allows Kansas-certified teachers to begin working while they complete any additional state-specific requirements. These may include coursework, local exams, or content assessments tied to state history or civics. For instance, some states require passing a U.S. and state constitution test or completing training in areas like English language learning or ethics.

One Kansas teacher described transferring her license as both exciting and complex. She initially expected her credentials to carry over automatically but quickly realized that navigating the process required patience and proactive communication with the new state’s education department. While the paperwork and added coursework were challenges, she found the effort worthwhile as it opened up new professional opportunities and deepened her understanding of regional educational standards.

What are the benefits of having a teacher certification in Kansas?

Obtaining a teacher certification in Kansas unlocks a world of possibilities for those eager to build a meaningful career in education. Beyond meeting the state’s requirements for teaching in public schools, certification opens doors to diverse roles and offers numerous professional and financial advantages.

Here’s a closer look at how certification can elevate your teaching journey in Kansas:

Broadened Career Paths: Certification qualifies you to teach not only in Kansas public schools but also in many charter schools and specialized programs, making you a versatile and competitive candidate statewide.
Stronger Job Stability: Holding a valid teaching credential is often legally required, and it can lead to tenure-track positions that provide enhanced employment protections compared to uncertified roles.
Increased Earning Potential: Certified teachers benefit from structured salary schedules that reward experience and education. Additional endorsements or advanced certifications can bring salary boosts and extra stipends.
Leadership Opportunities: Certification is a key step toward roles such as department chair, instructional coach, or school administrator, positioning you as an educational leader within your school or district.
State-Specific Benefits: Kansas supports educators with health and retirement plans, tuition assistance for further study, professional development resources, and eligibility for loan forgiveness programs aimed at certified teachers.
Enhanced Classroom Effectiveness: Training through certification programs sharpens skills in classroom management and instructional techniques, leading to improved student engagement and learning outcomes.
Ongoing Professional Growth: Certified educators have access to mentorship and networks that foster continuous learning and career advancement throughout their teaching tenure.

The size of the teaching profession nationwide highlights how competitive the field can be. Earning certification in Kansas turns that broad credential into a meaningful advantage—opening access to state-specific salary increases, leadership opportunities, and professional support systems that help you stand out.

Employment of certified teachers in the US.

What Teachers in Kansas Say About Their Certification

Getting my teaching certification in Kansas gave me the flexibility I needed to balance work and family life. The average salaries here are competitive, which made the decision even easier. I genuinely feel valued and well-supported in my role. Martha
Pursuing certification in Kansas opened doors to leadership roles I hadn’t imagined possible. The state’s commitment to career advancement for educators is impressive, offering clear pathways to become department heads or curriculum specialists. It’s been a rewarding professional journey. Hiro
The professional development programs available to certified teachers in Kansas are outstanding. They not only enhance my teaching skills but also keep me motivated and inspired throughout the year. I appreciate how the state invests in educators’ growth. Linda

What is the most affordable route to certification in Kansas?

For educators seeking a cost-effective pathway, evaluating distinct program structures and delivery methods can help minimize financial commitments while meeting state standards. Some alternative certification programs and online course options are structured to reduce ancillary expenses without compromising quality. Assessing tuition models, application fees, and additional costs may reveal significant savings, particularly for those transitioning from non-education careers. For further insights on budget-friendly strategies, consider the cheapest way to get a teaching credential in Kansas.

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

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

In Kansas, it is possible to obtain teacher certification without holding a traditional teaching degree. The state offers alternative certification programs designed for individuals who have earned a bachelor’s degree in a non-education field but wish to pursue a teaching career. These programs typically require candidates to complete approved teacher preparation coursework and pass the Kansas Teacher Licensure Assessments.

According to the Kansas State Department of Education, alternative routes help address teacher shortages by enabling career changers to enter the profession efficiently. Candidates must also secure a teaching position and complete mentoring during their initial licensure period to qualify for full certification.

Is there an age limit for teacher certification in Kansas?

There is no age limit for obtaining teaching certification in Kansas. According to the Kansas State Department of Education, candidates of any age who meet the educational and testing requirements are eligible to apply for certification. This inclusive policy encourages a diverse range of applicants, including recent graduates, career changers, and experienced professionals seeking to enter the teaching profession.

The state emphasizes qualifications and competence over age, supporting lifelong learning and career development. This approach aligns with labor market needs, as Kansas continues to address teacher shortages across multiple grade levels and subject areas.

Can I teach while earning my certification in Kansas?

In Kansas, prospective teachers can often work in the classroom while earning their certification through pathways like provisional licenses or intern credentials. These options allow candidates to teach under the supervision of an experienced mentor teacher, providing practical classroom experience alongside their certification process.

This approach supports career changers and new educators by enabling them to develop professional skills on the job while fulfilling state requirements, making it possible to earn a salary and gain valuable teaching experience at the same time.

Does Kansas accept international teaching credentials?

Yes, Kansas accepts international teaching credentials, but you must clear specific steps.

Have all foreign transcripts and licenses evaluated by a recognized credential evaluation service to confirm U.S. (Kansas) equivalency. Prove English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS) if required. Based on the evaluation, KSDE may assign additional coursework, assessments, or content tests.

Contact KSDE early for pathway guidance and document requirements. Plan ahead: credential evaluation, language testing, and any make-up courses take time. Target high-need subjects (e.g., math, science, special education) where shortages heighten demand. Systematic preparation turns a foreign credential into a Kansas teaching certificate.