Types of CNA Training Programs

There are many different types of training programs available for candidates seeking their Certified Nursing Assistant certification. From community centers to the Internet, there is nowhere that lacks options.
Consider some general types of training programs before choosing which is best for you.

Private or Community College Because most training programs require a high school diploma or equivalent GED degree, the post-secondary level of education is a good place to seek out further education. Private universities offer courses that are adequate programs to qualify as training for CNA certification. Community colleges offer the same types of courses but to a wider range of students. This type of training is useful for students who are already enrolled in institutions of higher learning, as the programs may fit the focus of their coursework. This type of training can be expensive though, and seeking alternative options may be more useful to those with financial constraints.

Technical College Technical colleges offer a more streamlined alternative to community college.

The programs offered at technical colleges will be specifically catered to CNA candidates.
Some programs even cover the costs associated with examination and certification in their tuition, making the process less demanding for individuals.

They will guide applicants through the process and make sure all the necessary steps have been taken.

There are some drawbacks to this type of program, however. Unlike community colleges, credit from courses will most likely not be transferable to another institution.

This means that the program will only help you achieve your CNA certification; it will not directly help you advance your level of education.

This can be a suitable option for those who are ready to begin work as soon as possible, as they are more intensive courses that cover the same material in a shorter amount of time.

There are still relatively high costs associated with this type of training.

Community Programs Community centers regularly offer training courses on CNA certification.
This option will be the cheapest, as most programs are free to the public or offered at a low cost to draw as many applicants as possible.

These programs are funded by larger institutions like the American Red Cross or state boards for nursing. They are a suitable way to achieve certification for those who are looking for convenient, affordable access to the skillset and career of a CNA. There are countless community centers and affiliated programs, so doing research on available programs near you will reveal the most compatible choice.

Internet The Internet is the most convenient place to find CNA classes, but at the cost of credibility and comprehensiveness.

Many websites offer free training, but these programs may not be complete enough to help you pass the certification exam. Further, some states do not allow Internet training programs to qualify an applicant for certification.

It is worth investigating, however, as other states do not even require a certified training program before taking the test.
If you need limited help obtaining study materials to pass the certification test, the Internet may be a suitable choice.