Top 3 CNA Programs in Indianapolis

While many major metro areas have dozens of approved Certified Nursing Assistant, or CNA, programs, Indianapolis, IN, is something of an exception. However, if you live in Indianapolis and want to become a CNA - whether it will be the first step in the process of becoming an RN or if you plan to remain a CNA throughout your career - you can still get the education that you need. You just might have to travel a bit to get it.

Choosing the right CNA program in Indianapolis is of crucial importance. The quality of the program that you select has a profound influence on how easy or difficult the overall process will be. CNA programs are designed to prepare students to take and pass the state certification test. Some offer flexible scheduling options, including evening and weekend classes, so it pays to shop around a little before enrolling in one.

Although Indianapolis may not have as many options as other major cities, there are still plenty of ways to find the CNA education that you need to earn your license. The process is straightforward enough. First, you complete and graduate from an approved CNA program. Next, you take and pass the state certification exam, which includes a written portion and a practical skills portion. Finally, you can apply for your CNA license.

Some fine options for CNA programs in Indianapolis include:

University of Phoenix

This popular for-profit school operates campuses around the country. Its Indianapolis campus offers a medical assisting program that will prepare you for a career as a CNA. The program that's offered by the school is fairly involved as far as these things go. Instead of taking a few weeks to complete, it takes several months. Therefore, you should only consider this program if you are willing and able to wait a while before earning your license. Like most programs of this kind, the one that's offered by Phoenix involves a combination of classroom instruction, labs, and clinical practice at nursing homes and other healthcare facilities in the area. Upon successfully completing the program, you'll be eligible to sit for the certification exam.

Ivy Tech Community College

Located right in Indy, this school offers a very popular medical assisting program that's perfect for aspiring CNAs. Tuition fees are very reasonable, and various scheduling options are available. Even if you work full-time, you should be able to find an option that suits your needs. The program includes an externship at a local nursing home or other facility, and you must successfully complete it in order to graduate. During your externship, you will have the opportunity to see what being a CNA is really like, so this is a great chance to make absolutely certain that you want to pursue this as a career.

J Everett Light Career Center

Another Indianapolis-based school, J. Everett Light Career Center is known for its CNA and medical assisting programs. The medical assisting program spans the course of an entire year, so you must be okay with waiting a while before entering the workforce as a CNA. The extensive education that you will receive will pay off when you pass your certification exam with flying colors. The current program consists of two hours of learning per day, and it includes a clinical experience at a local extended care facility. You will not only leave the program with the knowledge that you need to pass the written portion, but you'll have the skills that you need to easily pass the practical portion of the exam too.

Becoming a CNA in Indianapolis doesn't have to be a challenge. By choosing the right program, you will be off to a fantastic start. Whatever your financial or scheduling needs may be, there is sure to be a program for you in the city and/or surrounding areas.