2026 How to Become a Teacher in Kansas – What Degree Do You Need to Be a Teacher?

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Becoming a teacher in Kansas is a licensing decision as much as it is a career decision. You need the right degree, an approved teacher preparation pathway, passing exam scores, field experience, and a clear understanding of how Kansas licensure works before you invest time and tuition. The good news for aspiring educators is that Kansas offers several routes into teaching, including traditional bachelor’s programs, online and hybrid preparation options, reciprocity for eligible out-of-state teachers, and alternative pathways for career changers.

This guide explains how to become a teacher in Kansas, what credentials you need, how the application and renewal process works, what salary and job outlook figures suggest, and how to compare Kansas education programs. It is designed for first-time college students, working adults changing careers, out-of-state educators, substitute teachers, and current teachers considering endorsements, leadership roles, or advanced degrees.

Kansas can be a practical state for educators to consider. O*NET OnLine reports a 13% projected annual increase in job openings for teachers and instructors in Kansas, compared with a 2% national job growth rate. If you are still comparing education pathways, it also helps to understand the available types of teaching degrees before choosing a program.

Quick Answer: How Do You Become a Teacher in Kansas?

To become a licensed teacher in Kansas, you generally need to earn at least a bachelor’s degree, complete a Kansas-approved teacher preparation program, finish required field experiences or student teaching, pass the required Praxis exams, submit an application through the Kansas Licensure Application System, complete fingerprinting, and meet professional development requirements to maintain or upgrade your license. Career changers may qualify for the Restricted Teaching License Alternative Pathway, and eligible out-of-state educators may use reciprocity through the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement.

Step	What it means	Why it matters
Earn the required degree	Most candidates complete a bachelor’s degree connected to their grade level or subject area.	Kansas licensure begins with an approved academic foundation.
Complete teacher preparation	Candidates finish pedagogy coursework, field observations, internships, and student teaching.	The program must prepare you for classroom practice and state licensure expectations.
Pass required exams	Kansas candidates submit required Praxis scores as part of the licensing process.	Exam results help verify readiness to teach in the requested area.
Apply through KLAS	Applicants submit records, test scores, fingerprints, and the required fee.	This is the formal route to the Kansas initial teaching license.
Renew and advance	Teachers complete professional development hours and renew professional licenses every five years.	Licensure is not a one-time step; it requires continued learning.

How to Become a Teacher in Kansas: Table of Contents

Kansas education industry overview
Education and preparation requirements
Kansas teacher license application and renewal
Kansas teaching credentials: key decisions
Career development resources for Kansas teachers
Career growth for English teachers in Kansas
Teacher leadership options in Kansas
Special education teacher certification in Kansas
MAT vs. MED degrees
Teaching and school librarianship as a dual pathway
Mentorship support for new Kansas teachers
Private school teaching pathways in Kansas
Online teacher credential options in Kansas
Kansas teacher certification requirements
Top education programs in Kansas for 2026
Elementary education specialization options
Teacher salaries and benefits in Kansas
Affordable advanced degrees for teachers
Kansas substitute teacher requirements

Overview of the Education Industry in Kansas

Kansas has a structured public education system, a statewide licensure process, and teacher preparation programs that are evaluated against state and accreditation standards. For aspiring educators, the most important question is not simply whether Kansas needs teachers; it is whether your chosen degree and license area will qualify you for the grade level, subject, or student population you want to serve.

One indicator of preparation quality is licensure test performance. In Kansas, 90% of test-takers pass the elementary licensure test on their first attempt, according to the National Council on Teacher Quality. That figure does not guarantee individual success, but it does suggest that many candidates are leaving preparation programs with the academic preparation needed to meet testing expectations.

Teacher pay varies by role, district, education level, and experience. The average annual salary for educators in Kansas is $61,560. Elementary School Teachers earn an average annual salary of $54,280, while Secondary School Teachers earn an average of $57,300 per year. Kansas also ranks among the top five states for concentration of jobs and location quotients for Elementary School Teachers, with 14,200 educators and a 1.10 location quotient.

Educators work across many settings, including public districts, private schools, charter environments, early childhood programs, and postsecondary institutions. If you are comparing K-12 teaching with higher education or other institutional settings, it may help to review the differences among a school, college, and university.

Benefits can also influence long-term career value. Kansas teachers may participate in the Kansas Public Employees Retirement System (KPERS). Depending on their retirement plan tier, educators can retire as early as 55 with reduced benefits after 10 years of service, at age 62 with 10 years of service, or at age 65 with one year of service to receive full benefits. Teachers may also receive healthcare, dental coverage, annual sick leave, surviving spouse support, and promotion opportunities, depending on employer policies.

Before choosing teaching in Kansas, compare your likely earnings, benefits, commute, local district needs, and certification area. A high-need teaching field can improve your job prospects, but it may also come with heavier workload demands, larger support needs, or more specialized training requirements.

Educational Requirements for Teachers in Kansas

The standard route to Kansas teacher licensure combines college-level study, professional preparation, supervised classroom experience, and state-required testing. A bachelor’s degree is the most common educational credential among teachers, with 64% holding this qualification, according to Zippia.

Minimum Education Requirement

Kansas teacher candidates generally need at least a bachelor’s degree from an appropriately accredited institution or one of the eligible online teaching programs. Relevant accrediting and approval bodies may include the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), Kansas Education Systems Accreditation (KESA), Higher Learning Commission (HLC), or comparable recognized accreditors.

The degree alone is not enough. A licensure-focused teacher preparation program should include two major components: education coursework and supervised practice. Coursework typically covers learning theory, instructional design, classroom assessment, child or adolescent development, subject-specific teaching methods, and professional responsibilities. Field experiences may include observations, practicum placements, internships, and student teaching.

Approved Teacher Preparation Program

Candidates should confirm that their program is approved by the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE). This matters because a degree from a school that is generally accredited may still fail to meet Kansas teacher licensure requirements if the teacher preparation program itself is not approved for the license area you plan to pursue.

Pathway	Best for	Key consideration
Traditional bachelor’s degree with teacher preparation	First-time college students who know they want to teach	Choose the grade level and endorsement area carefully before enrolling.
Post-baccalaureate or graduate preparation	Adults who already hold a bachelor’s degree	Confirm whether the program leads directly to Kansas licensure.
Restricted Teaching License Alternative Pathway	Career changers with relevant academic or professional background	This route is not the same as simply applying for a standard license.
Out-of-state reciprocity	Licensed teachers relocating to Kansas	Reciprocity can reduce barriers, but documentation and state review are still required.
Online or hybrid teacher preparation	Working adults or students needing flexibility	Fieldwork and student teaching must still align with Kansas requirements.

Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Kansas Teacher Preparation Program

Is the program approved for Kansas licensure? Do not rely only on the institution’s general accreditation.
Which license or endorsement does it prepare you for? Elementary, secondary, special education, early childhood, and subject-specific licenses have different requirements.
Where will student teaching take place? Online coursework is helpful, but classroom experience must be arranged in an appropriate setting.
What are the exam pass support options? Ask whether the program provides Praxis preparation, advising, or remediation support.
How do transfer credits apply? Transfer policies can affect cost and time to completion.
What is the total cost? Compare tuition, fees, testing costs, background checks, textbooks, transportation, and unpaid student teaching time.

Kansas Licensure Application and Renewal Process for Teachers

Kansas teacher licensure is a staged process. New educators generally begin with an initial license, then meet experience and professional learning requirements to renew or advance. The exact steps can vary based on whether you are a first-time applicant, out-of-state teacher, career changer, or substitute teacher.

Pass the Required Teaching Exams

Kansas applicants must submit required scores from the Praxis exams. Candidates are expected to complete the Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) Praxis test and the Praxis II PLT test, regardless of the preferred grade band or subject area. These scores are part of the licensure application record.

Apply Through the Kansas Licensure Application System

After completing the required preparation steps, candidates can apply for an initial Kansas teaching license through the Kansas Licensure Application System (KLAS). Applicants may need to provide official transcripts, verified Praxis results, fingerprinting documentation, and the standard application fee. Processing commonly takes four to eight weeks, so candidates should avoid waiting until the start of a school term to apply.

Maintain and Renew the License

Licensure maintenance is part of the profession. Kansas educators must complete professional development requirements based on their degree level and license status. Teachers with a bachelor’s degree and an initial teaching license must complete at least 160 approved professional development hours to qualify for a professional teaching license. Candidates with a master’s degree need 120 hours to renew their certification. Professional teaching licenses require renewal every five years, according to KSDE.

License-related task	What to prepare	Common mistake to avoid
Initial application	Transcripts, exam scores, fingerprints, application fee, and program verification	Submitting the application before confirming that all records are official and complete
Professional development	Approved hours based on degree level and license type	Assuming informal training automatically counts toward renewal
Renewal	Documentation of completed professional learning and current licensure records	Waiting until the license is close to expiration to track required hours
Out-of-state transfer	Current license, preparation records, experience documentation, and state review materials	Assuming reciprocity means automatic licensure with no additional review

Teacher Reciprocity Agreements

Kansas participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which can help eligible out-of-state educators transition into Kansas classrooms. This teacher reciprocity agreement may simplify the process, but teachers should still expect to submit documentation and satisfy Kansas-specific conditions.

Alternative Teaching Certification

Kansas also offers the Restricted Teaching License Alternative Pathway for qualified career professionals who have relevant preparation but do not yet hold a standard Kansas teaching license. This route may allow candidates to teach in secondary-level or designated subject areas while working toward full licensure. Veterans may also explore Troops to Teachers as a route into the education profession.

Common Licensure Mistakes

Choosing a program before checking Kansas approval. Institutional accreditation and licensure eligibility are related but not identical.
Ignoring endorsement fit. A program should match the grade level, subject, or specialty you want to teach.
Underestimating student teaching logistics. Field placement schedules may conflict with full-time work.
Assuming online means fully remote. Teacher preparation usually requires in-person classroom experience.
Missing renewal deadlines. Track approved professional development hours well before your license expires.
Relying only on salary averages. District salary schedules, benefits, local cost of living, and years of experience all matter.

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Navigating Kansas Teaching Credentials: Key Insights

Kansas teaching credentials are designed to support multiple entry points into the profession. New college students, career changers, out-of-state teachers, substitute teachers, and experienced educators all may follow different routes, even though the end goal is the same: authorization to teach in a Kansas classroom.

The main decision is which credential matches your background and career goal. A traditional route may be best if you are starting college and want a direct path into teaching. An alternative route may be more appropriate if you already have a bachelor’s degree and relevant subject expertise. A reciprocity route may help if you are already licensed elsewhere. Advanced credentials, endorsements, and graduate degrees can support leadership, specialization, or salary advancement, depending on district policies.

If you want a more detailed breakdown of credential categories, compare the types of teaching certificates in Kansas before choosing a licensure path. This is especially important if you are trying to balance speed, cost, and long-term career mobility.

What Additional Career Development Resources Are Available for Teachers in Kansas?

Professional development is not only a renewal requirement; it is also how teachers keep their instructional practice current. Kansas educators can use statewide, district-based, and subject-specific resources to strengthen classroom skills, prepare for leadership, or move into specialized roles.

Kansas NEA: The Kansas National Education Association supports teachers through advocacy, professional development opportunities, networking, workshops, conferences, and policy updates.
Kansas Center for Career and Technical Education: KCCTE is especially useful for educators working in technical, vocational, and career-focused instruction. Training may address curriculum design, instructional methods, and industry-aligned teaching practices.
Professional Learning Communities: Many Kansas districts use PLCs to help teachers review student data, share classroom strategies, solve instructional problems, and build consistency across grade levels or departments.
KSDE resources: The Kansas State Department of Education provides licensure guidance, renewal information, webinars, grants, and materials for educators across grade levels.
Online learning platforms: Teachers may use approved online learning to build skills in areas such as technology integration, special education, assessment, and instructional design.

The best professional development plan should connect directly to your job goals. A first-year teacher may need classroom management support, while a mid-career teacher may benefit more from leadership training, endorsement coursework, or graduate study.

How Can I Enhance My Career as an English Teacher in Kansas?

English teachers can strengthen their careers by building expertise in literacy instruction, writing pedagogy, literature analysis, language development, and assessment. Teachers who work with multilingual learners, struggling readers, or advanced students may also benefit from targeted training in differentiated instruction and evidence-informed literacy strategies.

Subject-specific networks, mentoring, and graduate coursework can help English teachers move into department leadership, curriculum design, instructional coaching, or advanced classroom roles. For a focused pathway, review this guide on how to become an English teacher in Kansas.

How Can I Take On Teacher Leadership Roles in Kansas?

Teacher leadership allows experienced educators to influence instruction beyond their own classrooms. These roles can be formal or informal, and requirements vary by district. Some positions require graduate coursework, endorsements, or administrative credentials, while others rely on demonstrated classroom effectiveness and peer leadership.

Leadership role	Typical responsibilities	When it may be a good fit
Department head or curriculum coordinator	Guide subject-area planning, align curriculum, support assessments, and coordinate instructional resources	You want to influence curriculum and support teachers in your discipline.
Mentor teacher	Coach new educators on classroom routines, instruction, parent communication, and school culture	You are an experienced teacher who enjoys helping beginners succeed.
Instructional coach	Work with teachers to improve lesson design, data use, literacy, math instruction, or classroom practice	You want a broader instructional impact without fully leaving teaching.
Professional development leader	Design or lead training sessions, workshops, and peer learning opportunities	You are skilled at translating practice into usable strategies for colleagues.
School improvement team member	Analyze school goals, review programs, recommend changes, and support improvement initiatives	You want to contribute to schoolwide planning and student outcomes.

Additional credentials can make leadership roles more attainable. Teachers who need flexible study options may compare online accredited colleges offering education, leadership, curriculum, or instructional design programs.

How Do I Achieve Special Education Teacher Certification in Kansas?

Special education requires preparation beyond general classroom teaching. Candidates need training in inclusive instruction, individualized education planning, behavior supports, assessment, collaboration with families, and legal or ethical responsibilities connected to serving students with disabilities.

Because special education roles vary by grade level, setting, and student need, candidates should choose programs with appropriate fieldwork and faculty expertise. For a step-by-step explanation of coursework, practicum expectations, and licensing considerations, use this resource on special education teacher certification in Kansas.

What Is the Difference Between MAT and MED Degrees?

A Master of Arts in Teaching and a Master of Education can both support teacher growth, but they usually serve different purposes. A MAT often focuses on classroom instruction, teaching methods, and direct practice. It can be useful for teachers who want to improve instruction or enter teaching after earning a bachelor’s degree in another field.

A MED often emphasizes education systems, curriculum, research, leadership, or administration. It may be better suited for educators who want to move into curriculum development, instructional leadership, policy, or school-level leadership. Before enrolling, compare program outcomes, licensure implications, and district salary policies. For a deeper comparison, review the MED vs MAT difference.

Could a Dual Career in Teaching and School Librarianship Enhance My Impact?

Teaching and school librarianship can complement each other well. A teacher with library and media expertise can support research skills, information literacy, reading engagement, digital citizenship, and student access to learning materials. This path may be especially valuable for educators who enjoy curriculum collaboration and resource development.

School library roles may require specialized preparation, so teachers should check Kansas expectations and employer requirements before enrolling in a program. For more guidance, see how to become a school librarian in Kansas.

What Mentorship Programs Are Available to Support New Teachers in Kansas?

Many Kansas districts and education organizations support new teachers through mentoring. These programs often match beginning educators with experienced teachers who can help with classroom management, lesson planning, grading routines, family communication, and school expectations.

Mentorship is especially useful during the first year because new teachers must translate preparation coursework into daily classroom decisions. Early childhood and kindergarten teachers may also need guidance on developmentally appropriate instruction, classroom routines, and family engagement. If that is your target area, review the kindergarten teacher requirements in Kansas.

What Are the Pathways for Becoming a Private School Teacher in Kansas?

Private school teaching requirements can differ from public school licensure requirements. Some private schools prioritize subject knowledge, religious or mission alignment, teaching experience, or specialized training, while others prefer or require state licensure.

Prospective private school teachers should contact individual schools directly and ask about degree expectations, background checks, endorsements, teaching experience, and whether a Kansas public school license strengthens the application. A public teaching credential may increase flexibility if you later decide to move into a public district. For additional details, review private school teacher requirements in Kansas.

Can I Pursue My Teaching Credential Online in Kansas?

Yes, some candidates can complete teacher preparation coursework online, but online study does not remove the need for approved field experience. A legitimate online or hybrid program should explain how local practicum placements, student teaching, advising, and licensure documentation are handled.

Before enrolling, confirm that the program is accepted for Kansas licensure, that it supports your endorsement area, and that field placements are available where you live. For a focused overview, read this guide on how to become a teacher online in Kansas.

What Are the Specific Teacher Certification Requirements in Kansas?

Kansas certification requires more than completing education coursework. Candidates must satisfy program approval standards, testing requirements, field-based experience expectations, application documentation, fingerprinting, and renewal rules. Requirements may also differ by grade band, subject, endorsement, and applicant background.

Because teacher certification rules can affect your timeline and cost, verify requirements before committing to a program. For a detailed breakdown of documentation, assessments, license types, and renewal expectations, review teacher certification requirements in Kansas.

List of Top Education Programs in Kansas for 2026

Choosing the right Kansas education program should start with licensure fit, not brand recognition alone. A strong program should align with your target license area, offer relevant field experience, prepare you for required exams, support classroom readiness, and help you build practical skills such as lesson design, assessment, and classroom management.

The following programs were evaluated using factors such as accreditation, program scope, and financial considerations. Use the list as a starting point, then confirm current requirements, costs, and licensure outcomes directly with each institution.

Program	Degree level	Best suited for	Key detail to verify
Pittsburg State University	Bachelor’s	Students interested in early childhood unified education	How the ECU pathway supports Kansas licensure and endorsements
Kansas State University	Bachelor’s	Elementary education candidates	Whether the Special Education QuickStart Program fits your career goal
Ottawa University Kansas	Bachelor’s	Students seeking elementary education with accelerated online flexibility	Field placement and pacing expectations
Wichita State University	Master’s	Educators interested in learning design, technology, and instructional leadership	Whether the degree supports your intended K-12, higher education, or training role
University of Kansas	Doctorate	Advanced educators focused on special education leadership	How the 90-credit doctorate aligns with your professional goals

1. Pittsburg State University

Pittsburg State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Education with a specialization in Early Childhood Unified from Birth through Kindergarten. Coursework includes Career Management in Family and Consumer Science, Lifespan Human Development, Introduction and Overview of Childhood Programs, Interacting with Children, Developmental Planning: Preschool and Kindergarten, and Early Literacy and Language Development. The university also has partnerships, including one with the University of Kansas, that allow individuals with an Elementary License to add an Early Childhood Endorsement.

Program Length: Four years
Tuition Cost: $4,078 to $9,750
Required Credits to Graduate: 120
Accreditation: CAEP

2. Kansas State University

Kansas State University offers a Bachelor in Elementary Education that includes study in Humanities, Social and Behavioral Sciences, Mathematics, and Natural Sciences. The curriculum also includes Educational Psychology, Foundations of Education, Instructional Media, and Teaching Methods. Elementary Education majors may also pursue the Special Education QuickStart Program, which supports dual certification in elementary and special education.

Program Length: Four years
Cost-per-Credit: $435
Required Credits to Graduate: 120
Accreditation: KSDE and National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)

3. Ottawa University Kansas

Ottawa University Kansas offers a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education. Students take courses such as The Teaching Profession, The Exceptional Child, Educational Psychology, Foundations of Schools in a Diverse Society, Elementary Mathematics Methods, and Elementary Language Arts and Social Studies Methods. The program also offers an accelerated online format, which may help students manage coursework around other responsibilities.

Program Length: Four years
Cost-per-Credit: $499
Required Credits to Graduate: 120
Accreditation: NCATE

4. Wichita State University

Wichita State University offers a Master of Education in Learning and Instructional Design. Courses include Change, Creativity, and Innovation, Learning Theory and Curriculum Design, Inquiry into Instructional Practice, and Instructional Leadership. The program emphasizes emerging technologies, personalized learning, and data-driven decision-making for professionals in K-12 education, corporate training, and higher education, with coursework offered in a flexible online format.

Program Length: Two years
Cost-per-Credit: $420.75 to $1,051.75
Required Credits to Graduate: 30
Accreditation: NCATE

5. University of Kansas

The University of Kansas offers a Doctorate in Special Education (Ed.D.). The curriculum includes Historical and Philosophical Analysis of Leadership in Education, Research Methods in Education, Psychological Foundations of Educational Theory and Practice, Multicultural Curriculum Programming, and Statistical Methods in Education. The program focuses on inclusive education and prepares students to support diverse learners in educational environments.

Program Length: Two to three years
Cost-per-Credit: $692.50 to $1,157.50
Required Credits to Graduate: 90
Accreditation: CAEP

What Opportunities Exist for Specializing in Elementary Education?

Elementary education is a strong option for candidates who want to teach foundational academic, social, and learning skills across multiple subjects. Kansas candidates may specialize through early childhood unified education, elementary education, elementary-special education dual pathways, or endorsements connected to specific student needs.

When comparing elementary programs, look closely at reading instruction, math methods, child development, classroom management, student teaching placements, and licensure alignment. For a more focused guide, review how to become an elementary school teacher in Kansas.

What Are the Salary Expectations and Job Benefits for Teachers in Kansas?

Teacher compensation in Kansas depends on district salary schedules, grade level, subject area, years of experience, education level, and leadership responsibilities. Some figures describe statewide or occupational averages, while others reflect public school salary ranges, so candidates should compare sources carefully and check specific district pay schedules before making a financial decision.

Salary expectations: The average salary for a public school teacher in Kansas is around $40,000 to $50,000 per year. Salaries can range from approximately $35,000 for entry-level positions to over $60,000 for experienced teachers or educators in leadership roles.
Job benefits: Teachers in Kansas may receive benefits that add value beyond base pay, including healthcare, dental care, retirement participation, sick leave, and other employer-provided benefits.
Incentives and loan forgiveness: Some districts may offer incentives for hard-to-fill positions. Teachers working in low-income schools may also explore federal programs such as the Teacher Loan Forgiveness Program if they meet eligibility requirements.

Teachers who want to increase long-term earning potential often consider a master’s degree, endorsements, or leadership preparation. Flexible online teacher degree options may help working educators continue teaching while advancing their credentials.

Current Trends Affecting Kansas Teachers

Teacher retention remains a major issue. RAND’s 2025 research on teacher well-being, pay, and intentions to leave highlights the importance of workload, compensation, and working conditions in teacher career decisions.
Technology expectations are rising. Teachers are increasingly expected to use digital tools, learning platforms, assessment data, and AI-supported resources responsibly.
Credential fit matters more than ever. Districts need teachers who are prepared for specific grade levels, subject areas, and student populations, especially in specialized fields.
Online education is useful but must be verified. Online coursework can improve access, but candidates still need approved programs and valid field experiences.

Which Affordable Advanced Degree Options Can Elevate My Teaching Career?

Advanced degrees can help Kansas teachers deepen instructional expertise, qualify for leadership roles, move into curriculum or administration, or specialize in areas such as special education or instructional design. The right degree depends on your goal. A master’s may be enough for classroom advancement or endorsements, while a doctorate may fit educators aiming for senior leadership, research, or advanced specialist roles.

Cost matters because graduate tuition can affect the return on investment. Working educators may want flexible, lower-cost options that allow them to keep teaching while studying. Exploring the cheapest online EdD programs can be a practical starting point for educators comparing affordability, rigor, and career relevance.

What Are the Kansas Substitute Teacher Requirements?

Substitute teaching can be a useful entry point for future educators, career changers, retired teachers, and people exploring whether classroom work is the right fit. Kansas substitute requirements differ from full-time teacher licensure and may involve academic credentials, background checks, and state or district-specific procedures.

Because substitute rules can vary by role and district, candidates should verify the current state process before applying. For a focused explanation, review the Kansas substitute teacher requirements.

Is Becoming a Teacher in Kansas Worth It?

Teaching in Kansas can be worth it if you want a public-service career, are prepared for the responsibilities of classroom work, and choose a licensure path that fits your goals. The state offers multiple pathways into teaching, professional development systems, benefits such as KPERS participation, and a range of school communities from rural districts to larger cities.

It may not be the right path if you are seeking guaranteed high earnings, a fully remote career, or a credential that requires little ongoing professional development. Teaching requires patience, communication, planning, adaptability, and a willingness to keep learning. Candidates interested in specialized student support may also consider a special education career path as part of their long-term plan.

Best Fit: Who Should Consider Teaching in Kansas?

Students who want a structured route from college into K-12 teaching
Career changers with strong subject knowledge and a desire to work with students
Out-of-state teachers seeking a state with reciprocity participation
Educators interested in elementary, secondary, special education, early childhood, or instructional leadership roles
Professionals who value benefits, community impact, and long-term public service

Consider Another Path If You...

Need a career with minimal licensing requirements
Cannot complete in-person fieldwork or student teaching
Are unwilling to complete continuing professional development
Want salary outcomes that are guaranteed regardless of district, experience, or education level
Prefer adult training, corporate learning, or higher education over K-12 classrooms

Key Insights

Kansas teaching starts with licensure alignment. Choose a program approved for the exact grade level, subject, or specialty you want to teach.
The standard route includes a bachelor’s degree, teacher preparation, field experience, Praxis testing, fingerprinting, and a KLAS application. Missing any one of these steps can delay licensure.
Kansas offers more than one pathway. Traditional preparation, online coursework, reciprocity, substitute teaching, and the Restricted Teaching License Alternative Pathway can serve different candidates.
Salary should be evaluated locally. Kansas figures include an average educator salary of $61,560, elementary average salary of $54,280, and secondary average salary of $57,300, but district schedules and experience strongly affect actual pay.
Professional development is required after licensure. Teachers with a bachelor’s degree and an initial license need at least 160 approved professional development hours to qualify for a professional license, while teachers with a master’s degree need 120 hours to renew certification.
Do not choose by convenience alone. Online and accelerated programs can be helpful, but only if they meet Kansas licensure and field placement requirements.
Advanced credentials can expand options. Endorsements, MAT, MED, EdD, instructional design, special education, and leadership pathways can support career growth when matched to a clear goal.

References:

KSDE. (n.d.). Teacher Licensure (TL). https://www.ksde.org/Agency/Division-of-Learning-Services/Teacher-Licensure-TL
National Council on Teacher Quality. (n.d.). Kansas. https://passrates.nctq.org/state/kansas/
O*NET OnLine. (n.d.). Kansas Employment Trends 25-3099.00 Teachers and Instructors, All Other. https://www.onetonline.org/link/localtrends/25-3099.00?st=KS
Steiner, E. D., Levine, P. R., Doan, S., & Woo, A. (2025). Teacher WellBeing, Pay, and Intentions to Leave in 2025. RAND. https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_reports/RRA1108-16.html
US BLS. (2024). Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. Area: Kansas. https://data.bls.gov/oes/#/area/2000000
US BLS. (n.d.). Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics: Teachers and Instructors, All Other. https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes253099.htm
US BLS. (2025). Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/kindergarten-and-elementary-school-teachers.htm
Zippia. (2025). Teacher. https://www.zippia.com/teacher-jobs/education/

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Teacher in Kansas

What are the basic educational requirements to become a teacher in Kansas?

To become a teacher in Kansas, you need at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Additionally, you must complete a state-approved teacher preparation program, which includes both coursework and field experience.

What exams are required for teacher licensure in Kansas?

Aspiring teachers must pass the Praxis exams, specifically the Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) Praxis test and the Praxis II content area exams relevant to their subject or grade level.

Are online education programs accepted for teacher certification in Kansas?

Yes, Kansas accepts online education programs for teacher certification, as long as they are from accredited institutions. It's important for prospective teachers to ensure that the program meets Kansas’s specific licensure requirements before enrolling.

What are the professional development requirements for maintaining a teaching license in Kansas?

To maintain a teaching license, educators with a bachelor’s degree need to complete 160 approved professional development hours, while those with a master’s degree need 120 hours. Professional teaching licenses must be renewed every five years.

Does Kansas offer alternative certification pathways for teachers?

Yes, Kansas offers the Restricted Teaching License Alternative Pathway for career professionals and the Troops to Teachers program for veterans, providing alternative routes to obtaining a full Kansas teaching license.

How does Kansas support out-of-state teachers?

Kansas participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, facilitating the certification process for out-of-state teachers who meet certain requirements, such as holding a valid teaching license from another state.

What exams are required for teacher licensure in Kansas in 2026?

To obtain teacher licensure in Kansas in 2026, candidates must pass the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators tests, which assess basic skills in reading, writing, and mathematics. Additionally, subject-specific Praxis tests align with the applicant's intended teaching area.

What are some top education programs in Kansas?

Top education programs in Kansas include those at Pittsburg State University, Kansas State University, Ottawa University Kansas, Wichita State University, and the University of Kansas. These programs offer various specializations and degrees in education.

What degree is required to become a teacher in Kansas in 2026?

To become a teacher in Kansas in 2026, you must have at least a bachelor's degree in education or a related field from an accredited institution. Additionally, completing a state-approved teacher preparation program is necessary to meet licensure requirements.