To work legally as a CNA in Chicago, you must enroll in a state-approved program, pass the state exam and register with the Illinois Nurse Aide Registry before you apply for employment. With a median yearly salary of $36,414, Chicago CNAs earn slightly more than the national average. CNAs with special skills or advanced training make over $42,300 a year. CNA training programs will help you to develop the type of skills health care employers want, especially for long-term care. Since nurses’ aides work primarily with the elderly and disabled, the training is designed to meet the needs of this population. Some of the skills covered in the hands-on aspects of the program may also include the role and function of nurse aides in acute care and home health care facilities.
International Career Institute ICI
The BNA program at the International Career Institute (ICI) includes lectures and live demonstrations in the classroom and real-world experiences in a long-term care facility to prepare students for a career in healthcare. An online/hybrid training is also available for students who want to complete the theoretical requirements online. Students learn how to perform nursing assistant procedures in a safe way, measure patients’ vital signs, assist with personal care, and monitor patients for critical changes. The program covers a total of 120 clock hours including clinical rotations. Graduates are eligible to take the Illinois State competency exam for certification. New cycles begin every quarter. ICI offers three scheduling options. The weekend class meets on Saturdays from 7:00 am to 4:00 pm for 8 to 10 weeks. The weekday class meets Mondays and Thursdays in the classroom from 7:00 am to 4:00 pm. The clinical sessions meet Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 7:00 am to 5:30 pm. An accelerated class meets Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 7:00 am to 4:00 pm and the time to finish is 3 to 4 weeks. A hybrid class is also available based on need.
Admission criteria:
- A valid social security card
- Pass a criminal background check
- Submit a satisfactory drug test report
- Provide proof of immunization including a negative TB test
- Have a high school diploma or GED equivalent
- Pass an admission assessment
- Complete a physical exam and meet the physical competencies for the profession
Tuition for the program is $1050. Other expenses for registration, school identification, uniform, nursing kit, and practical lab fee will apply. The approximate cost of expenses is $395.
Website: https://www.ici-training.com/
Address: 6425 N. Hamlin, Lincolnwood, Il 60712
Phone: 847-929-6129
Email: Info@Ici-Training.Com
Tukiendorf Training Institute
Students must adhere to a strict attendance policy at TTI in order to graduate from the nursing aide program. The program covers a total of 135 clock hours including 90 classroom hours and 45 clinical hours at a local nursing home. The combined theoretical and clinical training prepares students for success on the Illinois state exam to become a Certified Nurse Aide. Graduates will be able to assist residents with personal hygiene and grooming, mobility such as transferring, positioning and ambulation, attend to nutritional and elimination needs, provide for their comfort, and assist nurses with special procedures. They will also be able to assess residents’ condition, maintain resident safety, and perform comfort activities such as answering call lights and providing back rubs. The class enrollment is limited to 15 students. The clinical student to teacher ratio is 8:1. The duration of the program is 15 weeks.
Admission criteria:
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Pass a criminal background check
- Meet the vaccination requirements in accordance with Centers for Disease Control guidelines
- Complete the physical exam including a two-step TB skin test
- Provide a copy of a current (no more than 12 months) health evaluation signed by a nurse practitioner or physical. The evaluation must indicate the candidate’s ability to lift at least 50 pounds, reach overhead and stand or walk for long periods
The program cost of $2,005 includes tuition, books, materials, fees, and tests. Extra costs include background check, uniforms, physical with TB, medical supplies, and make-up fees.
Website: https://www.ttimedicalschool.com/
Address: 5310 N. Harlem Ave. Suite 209, Chicago, IL 60656
Phone: (773) 774-2222
Fax: (773) 763-1773
Email:info@ttimedicalschool.com
Career Training Center of Chicago
The basic nurse assistant program at CTCC provides students with the theoretical and clinical knowledge needed to fulfill the CNA requirements set forth by the Illinois Department of Public Health. With regular attendance, students can get on the fast-track and complete the 5-week course in less than four weeks. Facilitators use lectures, role play, and live demonstrations to teach basic principles in the classroom. Students then move on to a nursing facility to complete the clinical part of the training. Morning, evening and weekend classes are available. The morning classes meet Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9:00 am to 3:30 pm. Evening classes meet Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 5:00 pm to 9:45 pm.
Admission criteria:
- Submit a completed application form
- Must have completed eighth-grade
- Must be able to speak and understand English
- Complete a reading test
- Submit to a criminal background check
- Complete a physical exam by a licensed physician – must include immunizations and a diagnostic test
The tuition cost of $900 includes registration and lab fees. Students must purchase their textbooks, scrubs and other incidentals. The tuition does not cover the cost of the state exam fee, background checks and health screening.
Website: http://www.careertrainingcenterofchicago.com/
Address: 3525 W Peterson Avenue, Chicago, IL 60659-3324
Phone: (773) 583-8532
Fax: (773) 583-1435
Email: rcacal@aol.com
Chicago’s Pulse CPR Training, Inc.
The Basic Nursing Assistant Program at Chicago’s Pulse covers 40 classroom hours, 40 lab hours, 40 on-site clinical hours, and 4 hours of CPR training for a total 124 hours. Areas of study include the role of the nursing assistant in long-term care, safety, mobility, personal care, nutrition and elimination, body mechanics, basic medical terminology and abbreviations, care of the older person, effective communication, hygiene, infection control, care of the older person, and Alzheimer’s disease. Graduates will be eligible to take the state exam to become a Basic Nursing Assistant.
Admission criteria:
- Attend an interview with the Training Coordinator
- Submit a completed application
- Must be at least 17 years of age
- Complete the enrollment agreement
- Pay the non-refundable registration fee of $100
- Pass a background check and drug screen
Tuition and registration cost $1,375 ($1275 tuition plus $100 registration). The required equipment (textbook, uniform, stethoscope, gait belt, physical, TB test, state exam, blood pressure cuff) will cost approximately $310.
Website: https://www.chicagospulse.com/
Address: 3211 W. 111th Street, Chicago, IL 60655
Phone: (773) 445-2277
Fax: (773) 445-2278
Email: info@chicagospulse.com
Phalanx Family Services
PFS’ nursing assistant training incorporates current healthcare industry trends to help graduates adapt to changing technology in the industry. Basic nursing skills will always be the primary feature of the program, but when combined with recent trends, advanced CPR training, and career development seminars, Phalanx graduates get a distinct advantage over graduates from other programs. Students are expected to complete 146 hours of training over an 8-week period. The contact hours include 106 classroom hours and 40 clinical hours. Graduates will be eligible to sit for the state exam to become a certified nursing assistant.
Admission criteria:
- Pass a pre-test with a minimum score of 9.0 in reading and 8.0 in math
- Pass a pre-screening
- Complete a criminal background check
- Complete a physical exam by a physician to determine absence of communicable diseases
- Pass a pre-enrollment drug test
Training is free for economically challenged families.
Website: https://www.phalanxgrpservices.org/services
Address: 1201 W. 115th Street. Chicago, IL 60643
Phone: (773) 291-1086
Fax: (773) 291-1434
Polish American Association
At 14 weeks long with 150 contact hours, the nursing aide program offered by the Polish American Association is one of the longest-running state-approved program. The comprehensive training covers basic nursing principles and clinical skills acquired through the 50 hours training at a nursing home or hospital.
Admission criteria:
- Submit a completed application form
- Be at least 18 years old
- Provide a copy of a social security card and photo ID
- Pass the English test
- Complete the criminal background check form
- Be eligible to work in the United States
- Have a low or moderate-income status
The total cost of the program is $960 and includes textbook, criminal background check, and miscellaneous expenses. Residents of Illinois may qualify for state funding through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity if they meet the income requirements.
Website: https://www.polish.org/
Address: 3834 N. Cicero Ave., Chicago, Illinois, 60641
Phone: (773) 282-8206
The Nirvana Institute
The Basic Nurse Assistant program at Nirvana Institute is appropriate for anyone seeking a career in health. Prospective RN or LPN students can enroll in the program to fulfill the requirements for nursing school. Taught by experienced registered nurse instructors, the program includes classroom training as well as clinical experiences in a long-term care facility. The IDPH, IBHE, NHA accredited program includes 120 clock hours of theory and practical instruction – 80 hours in the classroom and 40 hours for the clinical experience. Required courses include basic anatomy and physiology, supportive care, fundamentals of rehabilitation, fluid balance, care of the terminally ill patient, personal care of the patient, introduction to health care systems, working environment, privacy, safety, Alzheimer’s disease and Dementia, and CPR. The program is available on a morning or evening schedule. Daytime classes meet Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 1:30 pm; evening classes meet Monday through Thursday from 5:00 pm to 9:30 pm. Clinical session are on Friday or Saturday from 7:00 am to 3:30 pm. The class duration is 25 days.
Admission criteria:
- Submit a completed application form
- Be at least 18 years old
- Provide a copy of a social security card and photo ID
- Provide a physical exam report indicated good health
- Pass a drug screen
- Provide documentation of immunization including TB screen
- Complete the criminal background check form
The total cost for tuition and registration is $1,600 and includes registration and textbook. Mandatory items not included in the cost are shoes, watch with a second hand, CPR card, background check, and State Board Exam. Payment plans are available.
Website: https://thenirvanainstitute.org/
Address: 4650 S. King Drive, Chicago, IL 60653
Phone: (773) 675-4000
Fax: (773) 675-5631
Great Paragon Healthcare
Great Paragon prepares nurse assistant students to administer patient care as a vital member of the patient care team in hospitals, nursing homes, and home health care agencies. The state approved program includes classroom and clinical instruction to prepare students for the state certification exam and entry-level employment as a Certified Nurse Aide. Areas of study include medical terminology, patient safety, positioning and transfers, personal hygiene and grooming, infection control, measuring vital signs, Alzheimer’s care, and the role and responsibility of the nurse aide. Students must attend all classes to complete the program. Graduates may take the nurse aide exam to be added to the Nurse Aide Registry.
Admission criteria:
- Must have social security card and state ID or driver’s license
- A high school diploma or GED
- Provide a physical exam report indicated good health
- Pass a drug screen
- Provide documentation of immunization including TB screen
- Complete the criminal background check form
The total amount for the tuition is $950 and includes the non-refundable registration fee of $150. Additional costs ($245) for the course textbook, uniforms, CPR card, and stethoscope must be covered by the student.
Website: http://www.greatparagonhealthcare.com/index.php
Address: 2640 W Touhy Ave., Suite 206, Chicago, IL 60645-3147
Phone: (773) 274-7694
Fax: (773) 274-9082
Email: info@greatparagonhealthcare.com
City College of Chicago – Malcolm X
The Basic Nursing Assistant course at the City College of Chicago is approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health. Students earn a certificate of completion that confirms their eligibility to take the state certification exam for CNAs. The curriculum introduces the discipline of nursing and approaches to patient care, concepts of caring for the whole person, caring for a multi-cultural society, nursing practice, and communication. The clinical component of the course helps students develop the essential skills to work in the health care industry as a CNA. Students earn 8 credit hours upon completion of the program. There are five program offerings each year -two in the spring and fall and one in the summer. Morning evening sessions are available. The morning sessions meet Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 2:30 pm. The evening sessions meet Monday through Thursday from 4:00 pm to 9:30 pm.
Admission criteria:
- Must be eligible for English 96 and Reading 125 and Math 98 or higher
- Submit a completed physical exam report – must be completed by a licensed medical professional
- Submit official sealed college transcripts for any college courses completed
- Attend a mandatory information session
- Complete a drug screen within 90 days of the first day of class
- Clear a Healthcare worker background check
- Flu shot is required for Fall and Spring classes
- Maintain CPR/BLS for health care providers certification throughout the program
Apart from tuition, students must be prepared to cover to cost of books, uniforms, physical exam, background check, CPR certification, and state exam.
Website: https://www.ccc.edu/
Address: 1900 W. Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL 60612
Phone: (312) 850-7195
Norridge Gardens
Norridge Gardens offers free nursing assistant training in the Greater Chicago Area. The work-school program requires students to work part time at Norridge Gardens until graduation. Thereafter, graduates will satisfactory grades will be eligible for full-time employment as a CNA.
- A high school diploma or GED
- Provide two professional references
- Be legal residents of the United States
- Submit to random drug testing
- Must pass a Health Care Worker Background Check
- Attend an interview and pass an admission assessment
Tuition is free for selected candidates.
Website: https://www.premierofillinois.com/
Address: 7001 West Cullom Ave., Norridge, Illinois 60706
Phone: 708-457-0700
Chicago Community Learning Center
The Nursing Assistant Certificate program at Chicago Community Learning Center combines theory and practical instruction to prepare students for state certification. The curriculum includes 120 clock hours of instruction – 80 hours in the classroom and 40 hours of clinical activities. Topics covered include the role and responsibility of the nurse aide, body structure and function, basic nursing skills, medical terminology, infection control, introduction to healthcare, the job seeking process, care of the long-term patient, and CPR. The duration of the training is 8 weeks.
Admission criteria:
- Must be 18 years or older
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Submit to random drug testing
- Must pass a Health Care Worker Background Check
- Documentation of immunization
Tuition for the program is $1,635. It includes uniforms, state fees, books, supplies, and certification fees.
Website: https://cclctraining.org/
Address: 840 W. Irving Park Road, Suite 203 Chicago, IL 60613
Phone: 773-506-1503
First Step to Excellence Healthcare Training Academy
The Basic Nurse Assistant Training Program (CNA) at First Step covers the procedures and principles adults need to work as a nursing assistant in home health, long-term care, and acute settings. The training includes lectures, role play, demonstrations, and interactive activities during a clinical rotation to provide the essential skills needed to care for patients. The curriculum requires completion of 120 hours of coursework – 80 hours in the classroom and 40 hours for the clinical rotation at a skilled nursing facility. Students who successfully complete the requirements will receive a Certificate of Completion and will be eligible to take the Illinois Nurse Aide Competency Examination. Enrollment is limited to 20 students with each cycle. The duration of the program is 6 weeks. Morning and evening schedules are available. Morning classes meet Monday through Wednesday from 10:00 am to 3:15 pm in the classroom and Thursday from 7:00 am to 3:45 pm at the clinical site. Evening classes meet Monday through Wednesday from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm in the classroom and on Saturday from 7:00 am to 3:45 pm at the clinical site.
Admission criteria:
- Must be 17 years of age – high school students aged 16 may enroll with parents’ approval
- Must have a high school diploma or GED
- Submit official transcripts after acceptance
- Have current CPR card
- Provide picture ID and social security card
- Obtain a minimum 80% pass rate on the placement exam
- Provide a completed physical exam report – must indicate PPD and immunization status
- Complete a Healthcare Worker Background Check
- Provide proof of health insurance
- Must maintain medical coverage for the duration of the program
- Submit a signed Enrollment Agreement
The program cost of $1,541.99 includes tuition, healthcare workers background check, administrative fee, CPR, drug screen, lab fee, uniform, state certification exam, watch with second hand, gait belt, blood pressure cuff, and stethoscope.
Website: http://fsteacademy.education/
Address: 1639 E 87th St, Chicago, IL 60617
Phone: 773-437-5003
Fax: 844-676-1699
Morton College
Students enrolled in the Nursing Assistant program at Morton College will learn how to provide safe and quality care under the supervision of a registered nurse and provide essential nursing assistant clinical skills. The 9-credit career certificate covers knowledge and skills needed to provide basic care services to residents or patients. Students will be required to complete 93 hours of classroom lecture and 40 hours in a clinical setting. At the program’s conclusion, students should be able to demonstrate 21 manual patient/resident care skills.
Admission criteria:
- Obtain placement testing scores of 64 for English/Reading and 77% for Arithmetic
- Complete NUR 104 Socialization into Nursing Assistant Career with a grade C or better
- Must be at least 16 years old
- Be able to speak and read English
- Pass a criminal background check
- Provide proof of completing a physical exam – must be documented by a licensed healthcare provider
- Complete a 10-panel drug screen
- Obtain a negative TB skin test
- Provide documentation of immunization – varicella, MMR, Hepatitis B, Tdap, and influence (October through May)
- Must carry health insurance throughout the program
- Provide proof of American Heart Association (AHA) Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification for Healthcare Providers CPR
Tuition costs $96 per credit hour for resident students.
Website: https://www.morton.edu/home/
Address: 3801 S. Central Avenue, Cicero, IL 60804
Phone: (708) 656-8000
Best Step Academy
The nursing assistant program at Best Step Academy prepares adults for state certification. The training includes theory and practical instruction in basic nursing skills, patient safety, infection control, measuring vital signs, communication and interpersonal skills, residents’ rights and independence, and the 21 manual skills. Students will gain opportunities to develop hands-on skills during the clinical experience covering 40 hours of the program total.
Admission criteria:
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Be able to speak, read, and write English
- Must have good physical health and be able to lift at least 50 pounds
- Submit to a criminal background check initiated by Best Step Academy
- Obtain health insurance coverage and maintain throughout the program
The program cost of 1,250 includes the $50 registration. Additional costs include CPR certification, textbook, background check, supplies, and uniforms.
Website: https://www.beststepacademy.com/
Address: 10448 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL 60154
Phone: 708-710-5714
Email: beststepacademy@gmail.com
Prairie State College
The Certified Nursing Assistant program at Prairie State College prepares adults for entry-level employment as a nurse assistant in acute and long-term care. Students will learn how to provide basic care services to patients, including bathing, grooming, and feeding, in addition to assisting nurses. The certificate program covers 7 credit hours – 102 hours of theory instruction and 42 hours of clinical instruction in a nursing facility. A strict attendance policy is in place for both the classroom and clinical experience – online one full or partial day absence is allowed for theory classes and no absences are allowed for clinical. Students must earn an 80 percent or better to pass the CNA course. Graduates will be prepared to take the IDPH CNA Certification Exam to obtain the Illinois Basic Nursing Assistant Certificate.
Admission criteria:
- Must have a high school diploma or GED
- Must be at least 16 years of age
- Complete the Healthcare Worker Background Check form and have a livescan fingerprint completed by the first week of class
- Must purchase a uniform and shoes for clinicals
- Must obtain a physical examination which includes a TB test or chest x-ray (within the last 3 months), immunizations, and a 10-panel drug screen
- Must have a valid social security card to submit to a background check
Tuition costs $174 per credit for in-district students and $389.25 for those out of district.
- Website: https://prairiestate.edu/index.aspx
- Address: 202 S. Halsted St., Chicago Heights, IL 60411
- Phone: (708) 709-3500
College of DuPage
The Certified Nursing Assistant Training Program (CNATP) at the College of DuPage prepares students for employment as entry-level certified nurse assistants. The program is delivered in both 8 and 16 week face-to-face formats and hybrid format. The program includes a combination of classroom and clinical education that emphasizes basic nursing assistant skills and compassionate care. Students will learn infection control measures, providing safe care for patients and the observation of patient’s wellbeing in order to provide the best comfort and patient care. The curriculum covers a total of 6 credit hours. Graduates will be eligible to take the nurse aide certification exam to be recognized on the Illinois Health Care Worker Registry. They may continue their education to a diploma or degree in nursing available at the College. The duration of the program is one semester.
Admission criteria:
- Attend a mandatory CNA Advising Sessions via Zoom within a 12-month period prior to registration
- Must apply for admission to College of DuPage and pay the non-refundable application fee of $20
- Contact the early admissions department if under the age of 18 years
- Take and pass the Accuplacer Reading Test with a minimum score of 246 – exemption may be available for some applicants
- Must complete a physical exam with a Healthcare Provider – within the last year
- Obtain a satisfactory TB Gold Blood Test
- Complete vaccination requirements – Tdap, Hepatitis B, Varicella, MMR, COVID-19, Flu
- Schedule an in-person Chart Review appointment with Edward Corporate Health – cost of chart review is $30
- Order the Drug Test and Medical Document Manager at CastleBranch ($49.50) and complete a satisfactory drug test and Healthcare Worker Background Check
The estimated total program cost of $1,343.95 includes the application fee, in-district tuition for 6 credit hours, course fees, workbook and textbook bundle, BLS certification, stethoscope, blood pressure cuff, gait belt, uniform, state exam fee, drug testing fee, medical document management, health requirements, and criminal background check.
- Website: https://www.cod.edu/
- Address: 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
- Phone: (630) 942-2800 (Main)
College of Lake County
The Nurse Assisting Certificate program offered by College of Lake County prepares students for success in patient care. Students learn how to care for the elderly. Classroom and clinical experiences will emphasize the role of the CNA as part of the healthcare team and its legal and ethical implications. Clinical sessions are conducted at healthcare facilities throughout the community. Attendance is mandatory at all course sessions to the IDPH requirements. Graduates will be eligible to take the Illinois Nurse Aide Competency Exam to become a CNA. Day, evening and blended options are available.
Admission criteria:
- Must provide an original social security card to the Nursing Education office for verification – a copy of the card will be maintained in the student file
- Must be 16 years of age or older
- A high school diploma is not required
- Must apply for admission to the College of Lake County to obtain a CLC ID number and email address
- Must be able to speak and read English and have a 10th grade reading level
- Must complete a fingerprint background check
- Must complete a urine drug screen with negative test results
- Complete the health requirements – TB test, immunization, health insurance
Tuition and fees in-district cost $1,075 for 7 credit hours. Books and supplies, uniforms, fingerprint background check, health requirements, drug screening, federal background check, and state exam fee must be added to the cost.
- Website: https://www.clcillinois.edu/
- Address: 19351 West Washington Street, Grayslake, IL 60030-1198
- Phone: (847) 543-2000
Anmut Nursing School
The Basic Nurse Aide Training Program at ANMUT Nursing School prepares students for a career in the field of healthcare. Students will perform ADL’s such as bathing, ambulating, turning for those in need or assisting those in need with these functions. The curriculum includes 120 hours of instruction – 60 hours in theory, 20 hours in lab and 40 hours of clinical. A hybrid option is available for students who want to complete the theory online. Graduates will receive a certificate of completion upon successful completion of the course and would be eligible to sit for the state certified nursing assistant exam. Daytime and evening schedules are available.
Admission criteria:
- Must meet with the Training Coordinator
- Submit a completed application for admission and pay the non-refundable registration fee of $100
- Must sign the Enrollment Agreement
- Must obtain a negative PPD test
- Must have a high school diploma or GED or score at least 70 percent on a literacy exam
- Provide two forms of government-issued IDs
- Must complete a satisfactory background check
The program cost of $1,650 includes tuition, malpractice insurance, textbook, uniform, bp cuff/ stethoscope, lab supplies, clinical site, and CPR certification. Additional costs includes a second hand watch and white leather shoes.
- Website: https://anmutschool.com/
- Address: 1244 W. Thorndale Avenue Chicago, IL 60660
- Phone: 847-802-9609
- Alt: 773-344-5326
- Email: info@anmutschool.com
Instituto Del Progreso Latino
The Basic Nurse Assistant Training program at Instituto Del Progreso prepares students to work in the healthcare industry. Students will learn the disciple of nursing and basic approaches to patient care. Other areas of study include communication skills, caring for the whole person, patient safety, anatomy and physiology, and meeting patients’ basic needs. Students must attend all classes to complete the program. Graduates are eligible to sit for the state exam to become Certified Nurse Aides in Illinois.
Admission criteria:
- Present a certificate of graduation from high school/GED and any colleges attended
- Must place at the 11th grade level on the TABE test in reading comprehension and math
- Must have placed and/or completed pre-college courses Math 098 and English 098 with a grade of C or better – verified by an official transcript
- Must have authorization to work in the US – proof of citizenship required
- Submit verification of income
- Must have a government-issued ID and social security card
- Must have health insurance card and an active CPR (BLS) card
- Must be at least 16 years of age
- Provide documentation of vaccination – MMR, Hepatitis B, Influenza, Varicella, COVID-19, Tdap, TB
- Complete a 9-panel drug screen
- Must undergo a criminal background check
The program cost of $2,550 includes the application fee, program fee, books, materials, lab fee, and training expenses.
- Website: https://www.institutochicago.org/
- Address: 2520 S. Western Ave., Chicago, IL 60608
- Phone: (773) 890-0055
Triton College
The nursing assistant program at Triton College is designed to prepares students to provide care in various health care settings under the direction of a registered nurse. Students will develop fundamentals skills through lectures, laboratory activities, and clinical experience. The program covers a total of 7 credit hours. Areas of study include basic nursing skills, patient safety, nutrition, communication skills, measuring and recording vital signs, record keeping, and infection control. Students may complete elective courses to acquire knowledge and practical skills in ethical and legal responsibilities, medical terminology, venipuncture, and electrocardiography. Graduates are eligible to sit for the nurse aide exam to be added to the Nurse Aide Registry.
Admission criteria:
- Complete a satisfactory criminal records check with no disqualifying convictions
- Must have a valid social security card number
- Must be at least 16 years of age
- Must be able to speak and understand English
- Must have completed at least eight years of grade school or provide proof of equivalent knowledge
- Must read at a college level as demonstrated by course equivalency or concurrent enrollment in RHT 099 or test at college level Reading
- Must attend a program information session
Tuition costs $143 per credit hour for in-district students and $367 per credit hour for out-of-district. Additional costs for books, uniforms, materials, and fees apply.
- Website: https://www.triton.edu/
- Address: 2000 Fifth Ave, River Grove, IL 60171
- Phone: 708.456.0300
Career Options, INC
The Basic Nursing Assistant Training Program at Career Options, Inc prepares students to assume the role and responsibilities of a nurse assistant in both clinical and home settings. The training includes lectures, supervised laboratory and actual clinical experience to provide students with the knowledge and skills to provide basic care for residents in long-term care facilities and patients in hospitals, private homes, and other health care facilities. Course modules include introduction to health care, resident rights and relationships, infection control in the health care setting, emergency procedures, injury prevention in the health care environment, care of the resident, fundamentals of rehabilitation/restorative care, end of life care, Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Graduates will be eligible to sit for the state nurse aide evaluation exam. The duration of the program is 5 weeks.
Admission criteria:
- Must be at least 16 years of age at enrollment
- Must have a reading comprehension of 10th grade level
- Must have a valid social security number
- Must complete a physical exam by a licensed physician, which includes TB tests
- Complete the required criminal background check (fingerprint)
- Must have insurance coverage throughout the program
The program cost of $1,345 includes tuition, laboratory fee, registration fee, book, uniform, materials and equipment, certification exam fee, and CPR classes.
- Website: https://www.careeroptionscenter.com/index.php
- Address: 2644 E Dempster Street, Suite 116, Park Ridge, Illinois 60068
- Phone: 847-297-3900
Scott School of Careers
The state-approved nurse aide course offered by Scott School of Careers provides hands-on training in both nursing assistant theory and its practical application in a professional clinical and laboratory setting. Students will acquire the skills to provide basic nursing care to patients in acute and long-term care facilities. Course topics include anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, communication, safety procedures, responding to emergencies, restorative care, and much more. Graduates will be eligible to take the nurse aide exam to be added to the Illinois Nurse Aide Registry.
Admission criteria:
- Must be at least 16 years of age at enrollment
- Must have a reading comprehension of 10th-grade level
- Must have a valid social security number
- Must complete a physical exam by a licensed physician, which includes TB tests
- Complete the required criminal background check (fingerprint)
- Must have insurance coverage throughout the program
The discounted tuition is $1,650. Students must cover additional expenses for the application fee, state board exam fee, CPR course, criminal background check, books, supplies, and uniforms. Convenient payment plans and credit financing are available for all students.
- Website: https://www.ssccareers.org/
- Address: 5120 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL 60644
- Phone: 773-270-0900
Mizpah Center for Allied Health Education
The nursing assistant program at Mizpah Center for Allied Health Education prepares students for entry-level employment in the healthcare industry. The state-approved program includes theory in the classroom, lab skill sessions, and clinical sessions at local health care facilities. Students will learn basic nursing skills, communication skills, observation and reporting, medical terminology, nutrition and feeding, Alzheimer’s care, emergency procedures, and rehabilitative and restorative techniques. Attendance to all classroom and clinical sessions is required for completion. Graduates will be eligible to sit for the nurse aide evaluation exam to become certified nurse aides. Day and evening schedules are available. The duration of the program is 4 to 9 weeks depending on the schedule.
Admission criteria:
- Must be at least 16 years of age at enrollment
- Must have a high school diploma or GED
- Must have a valid social security number
- Must complete a physical exam by a licensed physician
- Provide documentation of immunization – MMR, TB test, Tdap, Varicella, COVID-19, Hepatitis B, Influenza
- Complete the required criminal background check (fingerprint)
- Complete a satisfactory drug screen
- Must have insurance coverage throughout the program
A flexible payment plan is available for all students.
- Website: https://www.mizpahchicago.com/
- Address: 2720 S River Rd, Suite 26, Des Plaines IL 6001
- Email: info@MizpahChicago.com
- Phone: 847.708.9266
City College of Education
The basic nursing assistant program at City College of Education prepares students for certification and entry-level employment as a CNA. The program covers a total of 126 contact hours of instruction – 86 hours in the classroom and lab and 40 hours of clinical practice at a local health care facility. Areas of study include the nursing assistant in long-term care, communication skills, bedmaking and unit care, vital signs, legal and ethical issues, infection control, positioning, moving and lifting, nutrition and fluid balance, personal care, subacute care, and end of life care. Graduates will be eligible to sit the state exam to become a certified nursing assistant. They will be prepared to provide competent patient care to patients in various healthcare settings. The duration of the program is six weeks depending on the schedule.
Admission criteria:
- Must be 18 years of age or older
- Must have a high school diploma or GED
- Must be a U.S. citizen or resident alien
- Must be proficient in the English language
- Must have full use of arms and be able to stand for a minimum of 3 hours
- Must pass the entrance exam
- Must pay the full tuition amount before the start of the program
- Must be able to pass a criminal background check
The program cost of $2,095 includes tuition for in-district residents, supplies, registration fee, and textbooks.
- Website: https://citycollegeofeducation.com/
- Address: 1325 Howard Street, Suite 307-308, Evanston, IL. 60202
- Phone: (773) 416-9704
Magnificent HealthCare & CPR Inc.
The nursing assistant program at Magnificent Healthcare & CPR provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to care for patients in acute and long-term care facilities. Students will complete 133 contact hours of theory and practical instruction – 93 hours in the classroom and 40 hours in a clinical setting. The program is designed to meet the training requirements of the IDPH. Graduates will be eligible to sit the written and skills competency exam to be added to the Nurse Aide Registry. They will understand the role of the interdisciplinary health care team, apply their knowledge and skills to provide basic healthcare services, and apply legal and ethical behaviors in the provision of patient/resident care. The duration of the program is 5 weeks.
Admission criteria:
- Must be at least 18 years
- Must have a high school diploma or GED
- Must be in good physical health
- Must be able to pass a criminal background check and drug screen
- Must complete fingerprinting within 10 days of the start of class
- Must complete a medical history/physical exam
- Must provide proof of immunization including a negative TB test
- Must have Basic Life Support Certification for Healthcare Providers
- Must have a valid social security number
The total program cost of $1,135 includes tuition, books, background check, physical exam, scrubs, and state certification.
- Website: https://magnificenthealthcarecprinc.com/
- Address: 2046 W Devon Avenue, Chicago IL 60659
- Phone: 312-685-5243
Other State-Approved Basic Nursing Assistant Programs in Chicago, IL
Northwestern Memorial Healthcare
Chicago
3129261741
Swedish Hospital Part of Northshore
Chicago
586-703-8771
Apex Home Health Services Inc
Chicago
773-202-1948
Carepaks Health Services – Chicago
Chicago
(309) 454-1000
Chicago State University
Chicago
(312) 300-6984
City College of Education, Inc
Chicago
(773) 255-4959
College Of Office Technology
Chicago
(773) 278-0042
Competent Healthcare
Chicago
(773) 249-4644
Divine Basic Nsg Assist Training
Chicago
(773) 334-5564
Doctor’s Choice Home Health, Inc.
Chicago
(312) 447-0035
East-West University
Chicago
(312) 939-0111
Fairmont Care Centre
Chicago
(773) 604-8112
Glencrest NSG & REHAB
Chicago
(773) 338-6800
Instituto del Progreso Latino
Chicago
(773) 890-0055
Life Enhancement Health Care-Hybrid
Chicago
312-538-9702
Lights of Zion Ministries
Chicago
(773) 785-2996
Magnificent Healthcare and CPR Inc.
Chicago
(773) 856-3203
Malcolm X – South Chicago Learning Center
Chicago
(312) 850-7348
Marshall Metropolitan HS
Chicago
(773) 534-6466
Midwestern Career College
CHICAGO
(312) 236-9000
New Start, Inc Chicago
Chicago
(773) 247-0707
Northwestern Institute Of Health
Chicago
(773) 506-2136
PC Center Training Institute
Chicago
(630) 705-9999
Polish American Association
Chicago
(773) 282-1122
Premier Institute of Health Careers
Chicago
(773) 983-7786
Renee’s School of Careers
Chicago
(773) 233-7400
Samland Inst of Allied Health Chicago
Chicago
(773) 283-0440
Scott School of Careers-Hybrid
Chicago
(708) 466-4237
The Nirvana Institute Inc.
Chicago
(773) 675-4000
Tukiendorf Training Institute
Chicago
(773) 817-4515
WRIGHT COLL – HUMBOLDT PK VOC CTR
Chicago
(773) 481-8922
How Long Does It Take to Become a CNA in Chicago
You can complete an approved BNAT program in 5 weeks. Completing the nurse aide competency exam and getting listed on the registry can take another 2 to 3 weeks. So, within two months you can prepare for and commence a new career as a Certified Nurse Aide.
How Much Does A CNA Make In Chicago?
CNAs in Chicago earn a median annual wage of $34,430. Those on the higher end of the spectrum earn as much as $41,590 annually.
Can I Get My CNA Online in Illinois?
While fully-online CNA classes are not within the guidelines of the IDPH, approval has been granted for hybrid programs. For hybrid CNA programs, the theoretical course content is delivered online and the lab and clinical sessions are completed in person on campus and at a local healthcare facility.
How Much Does CNA Classes Cost in Chicago?
Affordability is one of the many benefits of CNA programs. The short-term training costs an average of $1,650 in Chicago inclusive of tuition, books, and supplies.
Are There Any Free CNA Classes in Chicago
Norridge Gardens and Phalanx Family Services are just two of many institutions that provide free CNA training in Chicago. You can contact rehab facilities to inquire about their program offerings. Some may not offer an onsite program but may sponsor prospective employers. Also, you may qualify for reimbursement of your tuition and exam costs if you are hired by a Medicaid-sponsored facility within 12 months of nurse aide certification.
What Is A CNA Hourly Wage?
The hourly wage for CNAs in Chicago ranges from $16.55 to $20.