Becoming A CNA After Graduation

Certified nursing assistant (CNA) programs train learners to bathe, feed, and dress patients. CNA classes online include coursework in long-term care and interpersonal skills. Students also complete in-person clinicals. Most online CNA classes take one semester to complete.

This page provides an overview of CNA classes online. Read on for information on CNA certification, graduation requirements, and potential jobs.

CNA Salary Potential

CNAs earn a median annual salary of $30,830, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Top earners receive more than $42,000 annually. CNAs working for government agencies and hospitals earn more than their peers. Professionals in Alaska, California, and New York earn the highest CNA salaries.

Prospective CNAs can boost their salary by earning an associate or bachelor's degree. A degree may help them qualify for high-paying jobs.

CNA Job Growth Potential

The BLS projects jobs for CNAs and hospital orderlies to grow 8% from 2020-2030. This rate is about as fast as average for all occupations. Many medical careers feature a higher projected growth rate, including personal care aides and psychiatric aides.

Schools' career advisors can help learners explore jobs and create a career plan. Students may need to return to school or earn a professional certification.

Frequently Asked Questions About Online CNA Classes

Can I get a CNA license online?

Many programs offer CNA classes online. However, learners must complete an in-person clinical. They may fulfill this requirement at a hospital or other healthcare setting.

How much do online CNA classes cost?

Cost varies by school and program length. Public technical and community colleges offer the most affordable rate to in-state students.

Where can you take CNA classes online?

Prospective students can browse online databases of schools offering online CNA classes. Learners should research whether graduates qualify for CNA certification.

How long does it take to become a CNA online?

The best online CNA programs take 1-3 months to complete. Learners split their time between coursework and a clinical rotation. A program confers either a diploma or a certificate.

Benefits of Taking CNA Classes Online

CNA classes online provide many benefits, including flexibility and affordability. Other advantages include access to professional resources, such as an alumni network.

Accreditation for Online CNA Programs

Aspiring CNAs should only apply to regionally accredited institutions. Colleges and universities obtain accreditation by meeting U.S. Department of Education (ED) guidelines. A school's location determines which one of six agencies accredits it. Each agency possesses an ED charter.

Schools with online or hybrid programs need regional accreditation and national accreditation from the Distance Education Accrediting Commission. This accreditation means a school's online and on-campus programs offer the same educational quality and promote similar graduate outcomes.

The best online CNA programs also feature programmatic accreditation from a private or government agency. These agencies may include a state's department of public health.

Applicants can browse accredited institutions on the Council for Higher Education Accreditation website. This organization offers the latest information on many programmatic accreditation agencies.

Options for Online CNA Classes

Learners who are taking CNA classes online complete 1-2 courses. They can then begin an in-person clinical. The best programs emphasize skills in patient care and safety. Enrollees also study medical terminology and diagnostic testing. Students develop communication and collaboration skills. They also practice giving medication and monitoring vital signs.

See below for common online CNA classes. Keep in mind that course titles and descriptions vary by school. A school's admissions advisor can provide information about the academic experience and graduate outcomes.

• Basic Healthcare Worker

  This course emphasizes healthcare delivery systems. Learners study disease concepts and legal and ethical responsibilities. These and other topics make up the health sciences core that learners need to qualify for a CNA certification. Coursework also covers conflict resolution strategies and different healthcare workers' roles.

• Nurse Aide and Orderly

  Students learn how to communicate with patients and family members. Coursework covers how to report suspected abuse and follow safety standards. Learners gain many skills they can use during their clinical rotation. One skill includes moving patients comfortably. Enrollees learn how to help other healthcare professionals transfer and discharge patients.

• Clinical Rotation

  A clinical rotation allows students to apply their knowledge in a real-world setting. Learners work alongside other CNAs, registered nurses, and physicians. Students may complete a clinical rotation at a hospital or long-term care facility. Most rotations last six weeks. Participants move patients and record vital signs. Practicing these tasks helps learners prepare for the CNA certification exam.

Graduation Requirements for CNA Programs

Unlike two- and four-year programs, CNA programs do not include a final project, thesis, or portfolio. However, learners must remain in good academic standing. They must submit assignments on time, earn strong grades, and attend classes. Students who do not show up to their clinical rotation on time receive academic probation or leave the program.

Graduation requirements vary by program. Prospective students can review requirements on a program's website or in the student handbook. Learners can also discuss concerns with a professor or advisor. Some students, such as those with a disability, may qualify for a modification.

Some CNA programs require coursework in math and English. Students interested in mastering other useful skills can contact an academic advisor.

Requirements to Work as a CNA

Aspiring CNAs must meet many requirements. These requirements include graduating from a state-approved program and passing the CNA exam. See below for more requirements.