Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Program

Certificate

Nursing assistants help registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs) with providing patient care by performing many day-to-day tasks such as giving patient baths, providing routine skin care, measuring vital signs, and helping patients walk or move around. Nursing assistants generally work in a hospital, long-term care facility, or other healthcare agency.

700
Scholarships available – and one might have your name on it.

Nursing assistants are in high demand by hospitals and long-term care facilities. Many of those who complete the program and pass the certification exam go on to work at an ICC clinical site partner. Working as a Certified Nursing Assistant opens the door to many other careers in health care.

A Quality Education

You must be at least 16 years of age to be admitted to the program. It’s a great way to get a jump start on a healthcare career and learn from quality instructors, 100% committed to your success.

Get Involved

Network with fellow students in the Pre-Health Club and get leadership opportunities by participating in Student Nursing at Illinois Central College (SNICC).

Career Opportunities

Certified Nursing Assistant, Patient Care Technician (PCT), Activity Assistant, Caregiver, Home Health Aide

COMPLETION TIME

< 6 Months

if Full Time

1 Semesters
7 Total Credit Hours


What if I attend part-time?

Our Student Success Advisors help with an academic plan that works for you.

ESTIMATED COST

$1,085

+ supplies & fees

Based on 2023-24


What financial assistance can I receive?

Find the plan right for you by connecting with our Financial Aid office.

AVERAGE CLASS SIZE

20 Students

average per class

Small class sizes mean more individual attention and a higher rate of success.


View the College Catalog to see a complete list of classes for this program.

Meet Our Students and Alumni

ICC Workforce Equity Initiative Provides Pathway to Danielle’s Dream
+
Fighting the Odds to Not Repeat History
+
Shelby Wagemann
+
Tragic Loss Inspires Natalie to Help Others in Radiographer Program
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The best feeling in the world is to see a student succeed, especially when they outshine their own expectations.

Lari LaBello , Nursing Assistant full-time faculty
Let’s Get Started ▸

How Do I Get Into the Nursing Assistant Program?

Whether you are in high school or wanting a career change, earning a Nursing Assistant Certificate is a great option to starting a career in health care. Talk to an Admissions representative to learn how to get started.

  1. Start the process by completing a CNA Program interest form.
  2. Attend a registration meeting.
  3. Complete our quick admissions application. It’s free and easy!
  4. Upload your Social Security Card to Secure Link to complete the admission process.
  5. Apply for financial aid (FAFSA).
  6. Apply for ICC Scholarships. Just 1 application for over 700 scholarships.
  7. High school coursework in English, math, and science is beneficial.
  8. ICC has partnerships with many area high schools for eligible students to earn a Nursing Assistant Certificate.

What Can I Expect As a Nursing Assistant Student?

Accreditation

The Basic Nurse Assistant Training Program is approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health. Completers are eligible to take the Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation Program (NACEP) and become certified by the state of Illinois.

Additional Opportunities

CNA Career Pathways

ICC has been awarded a grant in the amount of $204,060 from the Edwards Settlement Fund to train 100 individuals (25 per year, over four years) in our Certified Nurses Aid (CNA) Program.

Learn More

Innovative Bridge to Health Careers

The Innovative Bridge to Health Careers Program is an 8-week program that will engage participants in training designed to introduce and academically prepare them for entry into the various ICC Health Career opportunities.

Learn More Sign Up

How Am I Going to Manage This?

Admissions


  • Mon-Fri: 8 am – 4:30 pm

    Virtual Stretch Hours
    Mon-Tue: 4:30 pm – 6pm