Online CNA Classes in Missouri: Comparing Top Schools
Starting your career as a CNA begins with choosing the right training program. This guide showcases online CNA programs in Missouri, with details on cost, curriculum, admission requirements, and how each program works. You’ll also find answers to common questions about CNA training, certification, and your career in MO.
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A Look at Three Online CNA Classes in Missouri
Training to become a certified nursing assistant (CNA) is designed to be fast, focused, and hands-on — often taking weeks instead of years. Missouri requires that CNA programs include state-approved training through the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. Completing one of these programs prepares you to sit for the state credentialing exam and work as a CNA in Missouri.
While coursework can be completed online, all CNA programs must include in-person clinical training. Most schools offer flexible schedules, including weeknight and weekend clinicals, so students can continue working or managing other responsibilities while training.
Below are three Missouri CNA programs that stand out for their curriculum, time to completion, affordability, and admissions requirements.
Nurse Aide/Certified Medication Technician – State Fair Community College
State Fair Community College offers multiple pathways for CNA students:
- Skills Certificate in Nurse Aide (16.5 credits)
- Professional Certificate in Nurse Aide (31.5 credits)
- Associate of Science in Healthcare Specialist — Nurse Aide focus (61.5 credits)
These stackable options include both online and on-campus coursework, and most students complete a certificate in under one year. Credits can also lead to other roles like phlebotomist or medical assistant, and financial aid is available.
Duration: 6 weeks to 2 years (depending on certificate or degree)
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $3,335 – $12,100
Admissions Requirements:
- High school diploma or GED
- Official transcripts
- Personal essay
- Drug test and background check
- Up-to-date immunizations
Curriculum:
- Human Anatomy and Physiology
- Clinical Techniques
- Health Information Technology
- CPR for Healthcare Professionals
- Behavioral Health Support
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Health Occupations – St. Charles Community College
St. Charles Community College offers multiple health occupation options, including a standard CNA program and an accelerated CNA program. Students choose online or on-campus instruction combined with a months-long clinical internship.
Both pathways prepare students to take the state certification exam, and support resources like practice tests and exam guidance are included in the classroom portion of the program.
Duration: 8 weeks to 4 months
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $900 – $950
Admissions Requirements:
- Age 18 or older
- Background check and drug test
- TB tests
- Vaccinations completed
Curriculum:
- Anatomy and physiology
- Patient care techniques
- Vital signs
- Infection control
- Emergency care techniques
Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) Training – Missouri Health Care Association
The Missouri Health Care Association (MHCA) offers one of the few online-centered CNA programs in the state. The program includes 75 hours of online coursework, which students have 100 days to complete, plus 100 required hours of on-the-job training.
Students complete the skills training and certification exam independently, and MHCA provides a list of facilities that offer training opportunities.
Duration: 3 months
Mode: Online (asynchronous)
Cost: $1,300
Admissions Requirements:
- Age 18 or older
- Student supervisor’s name and contact information
Curriculum:
- Patient care techniques
- Vital signs
- Infection control
Student Support: FAQs About CNA Training
Below are answers to common questions about becoming a CNA in Missouri, choosing a program, and navigating the certification process.
Should I choose an accredited CNA program?
Yes, always choose a state-approved and accredited program. In Missouri, CNA programs are approved by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, which has more stringent guidelines than many other states, including requiring 100 hours of on-the-job training before you can take the exam.
Unlike nursing degrees, CNA programs aren’t accredited by national agencies like ACEN or CCNE. Instead, approval comes directly from the state. Always verify that a program appears on the state’s approved list. If the website isn’t clear, ask the program administrator before enrolling.
What exam do I take to become a licensed CNA in Missouri?
You will take Missouri’s state CNA certification exam. Missouri uses its own exam, not a national test. The exam has two parts:
- Written section with multiple-choice questions
- Skills exam with hands-on demonstration of required tasks
You must score 80% or higher to pass. If the exam fee isn’t included in tuition, expect to pay $125. Once passed, you’re licensed and added to the Missouri CNA registry.
Expert Insight
Preparation is key! Ask questions and set aside time to study the text and practice the skills. Because the exam consists of two separate portions, it’s helpful to use different study methods.
What type of work will I do as a CNA in Missouri?
Most CNAs support direct patient care under nursing supervision.
Work settings include hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, and long-term care facilities. Daily tasks vary based on staffing, unit needs, and employer expectations. It’s smart to ask for a detailed job description during interviews and clarify any unclear responsibilities.
Expert Insight
Don’t be afraid to ask questions when you’re a new CNA. It’s how you learn and get good at your job. Veteran CNAs and even nurses who were CNAs can share valuable tips for how to be efficient and effective.
Do I have to renew my CNA license in Missouri?
Yes, Missouri requires annual license renewal. Renewal includes a $20 fee and proof of recent employment submitted to the Missouri DHSS. If you haven’t worked as a CNA for 24 months, your license becomes inactive, and you must petition the state to renew.
Most employers help ensure licenses stay active since they must prove their staff are certified.
Is financial aid available for CNA training and licensing costs?
Financial aid is often available, but it varies by school.
Some colleges offer institutional financial aid, while others accept federal, state, or private scholarships and grants. Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) early to see what you may qualify for. Some employers or healthcare facilities also offer tuition reimbursement for CNA training.
Expert Insight
Some states have their own programs that offer tuition-free education in high-demand fields, like healthcare. Be sure to check if anything like that is available to you because they may cover certificate programs too.
Missouri’s Salary & Career Trends for CNAs
| Area | 10th Percentile | Median | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. | $31,390 | $39,530 | $50,140 |
| Missouri | $30,320 | $37,170 | $44,960 |
| Cape Girardeau, MO-IL | $29,490 | $35,700 | $41,240 |
| Columbia, MO | $32,760 | $40,120 | $47,220 |
| Jefferson City, MO | $29,140 | $35,260 | $41,700 |
| Joplin, MO-KS | $30,080 | $34,660 | $38,830 |
| Kansas City, MO-KS | $35,710 | $39,130 | $47,900 |
| St. Joseph, MO-KS | $29,600 | $36,390 | $43,360 |
| St. Louis, MO-IL | $31,530 | $38,820 | $46,000 |
| Springfield, MO | $30,050 | $35,590 | $40,170 |
Source: Nursing Assistants, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2024, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area | Curr. Jobs | Proj. Jobs | New Jobs | Growth % | Avg. Ann. Openings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 1,361,300 | 1,417,800 | 56,500 | 4.20% | 202,400 |
| Missouri | 30,420 | 32,490 | 2,070 | 6.80% | 4,660 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
