Top 5 CNA Programs in Illinois

If you are a resident of Illinois and want to become a CNA, you must first complete a CNA program. Learn about five popular Illinois CNA programs in this article.
Top 5 CNA Programs in Illinois

CNAs, or Certified Nursing Assistants, are in high demand across the United States. Illinois is no exception. If you live in Illinois and want to embark on a rewarding career in nursing, becoming a CNA is an excellent first step. You can't apply for CNA jobs without a CNA license, and you can't earn one without completing a state-approved CNA program. Luckily, numerous programs are available across the state. Chances are that many local community colleges and vocational and technical schools in your area offer such programs, but you should familiarize yourself with the popular programs in the state to get a feel for what to look for.

The right CNA program will arm you with the knowledge and skills that you need to take and pass the state competency exam, which you need to do to earn your license. Start your search this instant by considering these particularly popular options:

Kaskaskia College

This community college, which is located in Centralia, Illinois, offers an affordable Nurse Assistant Program. The total program cost is $1,740, and some students are able to use financial aid to keep costs lower. In addition to lectures and other types of classroom instruction, the program includes clinical experience at local long-term care facilities.

College of DuPage

This Glen Ellyn, Illinois, school is a convenient and affordable choice for aspiring CNAs who live in the area. With tuition costing just $822, the college's Certified Nursing Assistant Program is very affordable. The college is approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health. Its CNA program adequately prepares students to take and pass the Illinois state competency exam. Like other programs, it includes a fairly balanced mix of classroom instruction and clinical practice.

Lewis and Clark Community College

Upon completing the Nurse Assistant Program at Lewis and Clark, which is located in Godfrey, Illinois, you will be ready to not only pass the state competency exam, but to immediately start working as a CNA. That's largely because the program includes 48 hours of clinical experience at local hospitals and nursing homes. Tuition for in-state students is $750.

Shawnee Community College

With in-state tuition costing $690, this Ullin, Illinois, community college is an especially affordable choice for people who aspire to become CNAs. Its CNA Basic Program largely focuses on direct patient care, so you will get a lot of hands-on experience along the way.

City Colleges of Chicago

If you're in the Chicago area and want to become a CNA, this school deserves to be near the top of your list. Its Basic Nursing Assistant Program takes a few weeks to complete, so you will be sitting for the state competency exam in no time. Tuition for in-state students is $1,168, and you can apply for financial aid to more easily afford it.

Your dream of becoming a CNA can become a reality more quickly than you probably realize. There are numerous CNA programs to choose from in Illinois, and selecting the right one is a terrific first step. Don't rush the process to ensure that you find a program that's a good fit for you.

Amanda Jordan
Amanda Jordan

A registered nurse with a BSN degree, skillfully simplifies complex medical topics as a healthcare writer, contributing valuable insights to a diverse audience.

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