Career Advancement Options for CNAs

CNAs who want to delve into other branches of the nursing field could find potential job growth, increased pay, added responsibilities, and opportunities to explore areas of healthcare that interest them as they pursue higher nursing degrees. Learn more about the educational and training paths available to CNAs.

CNAs pursue their career through a combination of practical, working experience and certificate or degree programs that help develop a deeper understanding of the practice of nursing. Below is an example of the path to becoming a registered nurse.

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CNA training proceeds in three levels. CNAs who complete a basic training course and take a state certification test are CNA 1, and additional training establishes them as CNA 2 and CNA 3. Each level brings additional responsibility and a new work environment where CNAs can assist nurses and other healthcare professionals.

Certified nursing aides who complete an entry-level training course are qualified to assist licensed practical nurses or registered nurses working in various healthcare facilities, though not in hospitals. CNA 1s perform healthcare tasks, such as taking patient vitals and measurements and other daily care needs, and communicate information between nurses and patients.

Because CNA 1 programs teach the basics of healthcare work, students have a large workload that consists of classroom and lab work as well as clinical requirements. Students then must pass an exam administered by the state, which includes a written and a practical component.

After completing the basic training to become a CNA 1, students take additional courses to learn about working under nurses in acute care and hospital settings. They perform the same patient care duties as a CNA 1 under the direction of a licensed practical nurse or registered nurse.

CNA 2 programs require a CNA 1 license before a student can apply to the program. Students then train in classroom, lab and clinical settings to build on their CNA 1 knowledge and prepare them for their responsibilities in the more stressful environment of a hospital. Students who complete CNA 2 training may need to take additional tests before their CNA license is upgraded in the state registry.

Sometimes referred to as a patient care technician, this level of CNA training prepares students to perform specialized nursing aid in several different departments, such as phlebotomy or repertory tests. A CNA 3 may be trained to run an electrocardiogram or perform other tests.

CNA 3 training programs teach students specialized terminology and skills involving medical devices or testing techniques. Students narrow the scope of their studies to learn the procedures that are a part of everyday work in their healthcare divisions, such as phlebotomy or acute care.

Nursing specializations are wide-ranging and diverse, and CNAs interested in advancing in the field can typically find a potential career that aligns with their interests. Below are a few of the most common careers a CNA could pursue in the nursing field, along with the skills, education and training necessary to succeed in each career.

Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.

Basic and advanced nursing education programs award graduates with certificates, undergraduate degrees and advanced degrees. All programs require a high school education or GED, and most have GPA requirements that applicants must meet in order to be accepted. CNAs considering higher education should be working in healthcare settings, gaining experience and learning on the job.

The table below explores different levels of certification within the nursing field, the requirements to apply for different programs, and jobs graduates are qualified for with those certifications or degrees.

One to six months

Certified nursing assistant at an assisted living facility, intermediate care facility, or skilled nursing facility.

One year

Licensed vocational nurse working in acute care facilities, with community health agencies, in long-term care facilities or other healthcare

Two years

Registered nurse

Three to four years

Registered nurse

Two to three years

Three to five years

CNAs exploring the nursing field in order to increase their salaries should not only look at the institution that can employ them, but also the state where they will be working. Pursing a nursing career in one state may lead to more financially generous opportunities than finding employment in another.

[State Map]

The nursing field is challenging and has essential responsibilities at every level of employment. CNAs should carefully consider their commitment to their work before advancing in the nursing field, as it will mean devoting a greater of time, energy, and focus. Below are some questions to help CNAs reflect upon their goals.

Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.

Elena Pettycrew graduated from University of Portland in 2014 with a BSN and has been working as a registered nurse on a general medical unit at Salem Hospital in Oregon for two years.

American Association of Colleges of Nursing
Students in college nursing programs can find financial aid and other support for their education through this organization.

American Association of Legal Nurse Consultants
For registered nurses interested in legal nurse consulting, this membership organization is a way to network, explore professional development and education resources, and find certification through the American Legal Nurse Consultant Certification Board.

National Association of Long Term Care Administrator Boards
State boards that are members of this national organization develop standards, resources, and tools to assist administrators of nursing home and assisted living communities.

National Association of School Nurses
This membership organization supports school nurses in their mission to promote and maintain student health.

National Council of State Boards of Nursing
This nonprofit membership organization is the regulatory body for all nursing programs in the United States and administers standard licensing exams such as the NCLEX.

National Association of Licensed Practical Nurses
This professional organization fosters high standards of education, certification, professional development, and care in the field of licensed practical nursing.

National Student Nurses’ Association
Currents students in registered nursing programs can find professional development mentorship, education resources, and career guidance through this membership organization

Red Cross CNA Training
There are Red Cross CNA training programs in various cities in thirteen states; other programs are available in individual states.