Objective To develop and evaluate a training course based on core competencies for pain management nurse specialists. Methods By referencing to the interdisciplinary consensus on core competencies for pain management, a training curriculum for a pain management nurse specialists training program was developed using Delphi method. Fifty nurses from 40 hospitals in seven provinces attended the three-month training program which included in-classroom teaching and clinical practice. Trainees′ scores of Knowledge and Attitude Survey Regarding Pain （KASRP） and Clinical Pain Knowledge Test (CPKT) before and after the program were compared. A final examination was organized upon completion of the program, and trainees′ satisfaction were surveyed. Results The trainees′ average correct rate of the KASRP and the CPKT increased from 57.54% to 70.98%, and from 52.53% to 66.19%, respectively. Upon completion, the average score of the final examination was (82.75±2.93) and the trainees were satisfied with the training program. Satisfaction with met needs of theory course learning, and satisfaction with teaching, and with clinical practice all scored above 4 points. Conclusion Core-competency-based training for pain management nurse specialists could improve trainees′ level of pain management knowledge and competency.