What is the fastest way to become a CNA?

Aspiring CNAs who want to enter the workforce quickly should pursue an accelerated state-approved program. Some states require more on-the-job training and education hours than others.

How much does a CNA make an hour?

Nursing assistants and orderlies earn $14.25 per hour, according to the BLS, which equates to a median annual salary of $29,640.

How long does it take to become a certified CNA?

It depends on the state's requirements. For example, a CNA program in Missouri could take as long as six months to complete. Missouri requires 75 hours of class training and around 100 hours of on-the-job training.

How do you get CNA certified?

To earn CNA certification, individuals must complete formal classroom credits and on-the-job training. Once completed, they must pass the state certification exam.

Best Online CNA Classes

June 16, 2021 | ACO rankings team with contributions from Kayla Soyer-Stein

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CNA Online Certifications

In the coming years, the need for qualified, certified nursing assistants (CNAs) should rise. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects jobs for these professionals to grow 8% between 2019-2029, while all other occupations are projected to grow an average of 4%.

Competitive CNA programs admit a limited number of students annually, so possessing a strong GPA benefits applicants. During their studies, CNA students learn how to assist nurses and provide optimal bedside care for patients. This degree prepares students to earn entry-level jobs in the nursing field and gain experience for a full nursing degree.

Finding the best CNA program takes time and research, and this guide can help. Keep reading for answers to frequently asked questions surrounding this degree, a CNA program’s goals, and helpful professional organizations and scholarships. We also rank the top CNA degrees based on factors like graduate retention rates and tuition.

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Top 5 Online CNA Programs

Rank	School	Avg Net Price ? This represents the average net price of attendance for full-time students as gathered by the National Center for Education Statistics. Individual costs may vary. Costs per credit hour may also vary by program or degree.
1	Hazard Community and Technical College	$6044
2	Maysville Community and Technical College	$5793
3	Somerset Community College	$5481
4	Ashland Community and Technical College	$5733
5	State Fair Community College	$4351

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Common Questions People Also Ask About CNA Degrees

Q. What is the fastest way to become a CNA?

Aspiring CNAs who want to enter the workforce quickly should pursue an accelerated state-approved program. Some states require more on-the-job training and education hours than others.

Q. How much does a CNA make an hour?

Nursing assistants and orderlies earn $14.25 per hour, according to the BLS, which equates to a median annual salary of $29,640.

Q. How long does it take to become a certified CNA?

It depends on the state’s requirements. For example, a CNA program in Missouri could take as long as six months to complete. Missouri requires 75 hours of class training and around 100 hours of on-the-job training.

Q. How do you get CNA certified?

To earn CNA certification, individuals must complete formal classroom credits and on-the-job training. Once completed, they must pass the state certification exam.

What Are the Goals of a CNA Diploma?

A CNA degree prepares students to take a state certification exam. The curriculum focuses on how to complete tasks like bathing, repositioning, and feeding patients. Courses also teach students how to actively listen to patients and record details about their care for other nurses and doctors to read.

Upon graduation, CNAs know how to properly assist nurses with supply stocking, equipment cleaning, and linen changing. To achieve these educational goals, learners complete clinical hours and traditional coursework. Graduates often find jobs at hospitals, nursing homes, acute care facilities, and doctors’ offices.

Why Get a CNA Cerfification?

Although earning a CNA degree takes money and time, the degree can benefit professionals in several ways. In this section, we discuss the pros of enrolling in a CNA program.

Online CNA Classes Cost Less: Students pursuing this degree online usually receive reduced tuition and avoid paying campus maintenance and student activity fees. They also do not incur costs for room and board or commuting to campus.
Higher Earning Potential: According to the BLS, individuals with college degrees and certificates earn more than individuals with a high school diploma. View the Learn More, Earn More chart for details.
Positive Job Growth Outlook: The BLS projects the need for nursing assistants and orderlies to grow 8% between 2019-2029, which the organization considers much faster than average.
Virtual Learners Experience Flexibility: Some states allow learners to gain on-the-job training hours during their studies. Online programs usually do not interfere with work schedules.
Enhance Others’ Lives: Nursing assistants help individuals recover their health. They help them meet basic needs and stay comfortable during hospital stays or doctor visits.

What Are the Requirements for a CNA Certification?

To qualify for a CNA program, applicants must submit relevant test scores and transcripts. Competitive programs may also require an essay or interview. Once a student earns enrollment, they complete coursework that prepares them for licensure. Most CNA programs include lectures, traditional tests, and clinical rotations.

Since certification requirements for CNAs vary by school, learners should attend a school in the state in which they want to practice. However, online programs make it possible to attend a school in any state. Most states require CNAs to pursue on-the-job training hours and pass a competency exam.

Professional Organizations for CNA Students

Current CNA students can get a head start on networking with successful professionals by joining an organization. These groups offer conferences, scholarly journals, newsletters, and webinars for student members for a small fee. See below for three professional organizations for CNA program enrollees.

National Association of Health Care Assistants NAHCA unites CNAs across the United States for networking and education opportunities. This group provides 12 hours of federally required education and transcripts, a library of 750 informative videos, an electronic newsletter, and text alerts on essential industry announcements. Group membership costs $30 per year.
National Network of Career Nursing Assistants This group connects nursing assistants nationwide through events. The organization also offers professional awards to noteworthy members and discounts on educational materials and workshops. To showcase nursing assistants' hard work, the group facilitates National Nursing Assistants Week each year.
National Student Nurses' Association Current nursing students can get involved with this professional group. Fees to join differ by state, and members receive a scholarship to Imprint Magazine and discounts on services like professional liability insurance. This professional organization also maintains a career center and hosts an annual convention.

Scholarships for CNA Students

Applying for scholarships can help CNA students fund their education. Nonprofits, foundations, and corporations all provide financial assistance to learners. Most scholarship applications require official transcripts, short essays, and recommendation letters. See below for two scholarships for students majoring in a healthcare-related topic.

Caroline E. Holt Nursing Scholarship

Who Can Apply: The Daughters of the American Revolution administers this scholarship for nursing students with financial need. Applicants must submit their nursing program acceptance letter or a transcript stating their admission. The organization selects two winners annually. Current students and future students admitted to an accredited school can apply.
Amount: $2,500

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The Foundation of the National Student Nurses' Association, Inc. Scholarships

Who Can Apply: Nursing students can apply for multiple scholarships through this foundation. A scholarship committee selects recipients based on factors like financial need, community involvement, and academic merit. These awards assist undergraduate nursing students only.
Amount: $1,000-$7,500

Apply