An In-Depth Review of Online CNA Classes

Author: Kathleen Curtis

Editor: Edumed Editing Staff

Updated: 11/05/2024

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Certified nursing assistants (CNAs) work on the front lines of patient care in hospitals, nursing homes, and other medical and healthcare facilities. CNAs usually serve under the supervision of a practical nurse or registered nurse and assist patients with sanitation needs, basic movement, and more.

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In May 2023, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that CNAs earned a median annual salary of $38,200, with top earners taking home $48,780. The BLS also reported an estimated growth rate of 4% for CNA job opportunities between 203 and 2033, much faster than average.

Aspiring nursing assistants can become CNAs in a matter of weeks. Short programs last as few as four months and end with on-the-job training. Longer (and potentially more robust) programs may run nine to 12 months. Many of today’s schools have added online learning to their CNA curriculum. CNA classes online focus on the academic portion of the program and combine it with in-person clinicals to make sure future CNAs have ultimate flexibility while getting key patient-facing experience. If a fast and flexible CNA education sounds right for you, get the inside scoop on how CNA classes work online, and review top online CNA classes and programs.

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How Online CNA Classes Work

Many certified nursing assistant paths allow students to take part in both online and in-person learning. Most academic coursework tends to exist on a digital learning platform, while clinical and lab work takes place at the physical campus or at a local healthcare facility so learners can gain hands-on skills. Here’s how most online CNA programs work:

These CNA programs and classes have most or all of their coursework and resources available online. Research material, complete exercises, collaborate with professors and peers, etc. However, students will need to visit a campus to complete hands-on work, e.g. clinical/patient activities.

These CNA programs and classes have some of their coursework online, but students will mostly work on campus.

Unpacking the CNA Class Online Curriculum

The CNA curriculum covers a wide range of clerical and clinical knowledge and skills in order to prepare students to succeed as CNAs in a variety of medical settings. Before enrolling, learners should get a clear sense of what to expect from a program. Here’s a glimpse at some of the core CNA classes students can take online.

CNA classes available online

Introduction to Basic Care

An introductory course, students in this class learn about the basics of controlling infections, safely caring for patients, administering treatments under the supervision of qualified medical staff, and ensuring all patients in their charge receive care as needed.

Nurse Aide Healthcare Skills

This course introduces learners to fundamental CNA skills, with emphasis on how to communicate with patients and other healthcare providers, OSHA and HIPAA rules, emergency care response, restorative services, mental health principles, cultural sensitivity, safety measures, and the rights of patients.

Acute Care Nurse Aide Skills

Students enrolled in this class look at common issues surrounding acute care, such as advanced nurse aide skills, reporting findings to the nursing supervisor, caring for and preparing patients before they go into surgery, taking care of them post-op, and patient rights in acute care settings.

Nursing Assistant

With a focus on learning how to assist medical professionals in direct patient care, this course outlines all the responsibilities of a CNA and reviews the types of direct and indirect care a student can administer according to the state board of nursing.

CNA classes mostly on campus

Nurse Aide Clinical Experience

Building on the skills gained in the nurse aide healthcare skills course, this class – which is usually taught in a local healthcare facility – allows them to put those skills to use in real-world settings. Students follow safety protocols, observe how nurses and doctors communicate with patients, and learn about administrative responsibilities.

Advanced Nurse Aide Clinical

Students continue growing their hands-on skills and knowledge in this clinical course, which takes place either on campus or in a medical facility. Learners work under RNs and other medical staff, receive feedback, and take on more responsibilities to test their competencies and grow in confidence.

Caring for the Elderly

This clinical course introduces learners to the basics of caring for an aging population. Students develop skills in assisting patients with eating, bathing, dressing, grooming, and using the restroom. They also learn proper techniques for lifting and moving patients in a way that does not harm either body.

Home Health Aide Clinical

Designed for individuals who want to work with patients in their home, this class teaches them about shopping for, preparing, and storing nutritious meals, keeping a clean home, managing infections, serving the patient’s social needs, and creating a safe environment.

Earning Certification: The C in CNA

Even if an individual attends the top program in the state, makes perfect grades, and graduates at the top of their class, they cannot practice as a certified nursing assistant unless they successfully pass their state’s required certification exam. Before signing up for the test, read over requirements and common exam topics to feel prepared.

All individuals hoping to receive certification as a nursing assistant must attend a state-approved CNA training program that meets specific and individual requirements. Individuals who fail to attend an approved program may not be allowed to sit for the examination.

The majority of states maintain similar requirements as other locations, but prospective students should review those specific to their state before beginning the process. While the majority of states require individuals to be 18 when applying, California, for example, allows 16-year-olds with parental consent to begin the training process. Reach out to your state’s board of nursing for further details.

When seeking to enroll in a CNA program, applicants must provide proof that they are 18 years of age or older, a high school diploma or GED, results of a physical exam, proof of immunization and tuberculosis test results, a background check, and a valid driving license or identification. Some schools also require first aid/CPR certification.

Some of the topics covered include the aging process, infection control, safety, anatomy and physiology, ethical/legal issues, nutrition, vital signs, body mechanics, mental health, personal care, client rights, responsibilities of the CNA, communication, range of motion, daily living activities, and medical terminology.

The CNA exam is divided into two parts: written and clinical. Those administering the test ask examinees to demonstrate three to six skills. Some of the options include taking vitals, providing dental care, transferring patients to a bed or chair, rotating their position, giving a partial in-bed bath, providing catheter care, and making a bed while occupied.

Still have questions about the exam? Check out the following section for answers to common queries.

Certification Exam Q&A

After students finish their CNA training program, it’s time to study for and schedule the certification exam. Prometric acts as the overseeing agency for administering the test and provides lots of helpful information for students seeking answers. In addition to the questions answered below, learners can find state-specific information on Prometric’s website.

How much does certification cost?

The cost of the exam depends on the state. In Alabama, for instance, the written exam costs $30 and the clinical exam costs $35. In New York, the written portion costs $57 and the clinical portion costs $68. Some states also charge a test site administration fee. Check with Prometric to get exact costs.

Where do I take the test?

Prometric provides a list of testing centers in individual states so examinees can find the site closest to them. Because test locations can change over time, students should ensure they review the most up-to-date listing available before applying.

What should I bring?

Applicants must wear nonskid, closed toes shoes and are encouraged to wear scrubs to perform clinical tests. Test takers must also bring two forms of identification. The first must be non-expired and include both a photo and a signature. The second must include a signature. The names on both must match.

How many questions are on the test?

The written exam comprises 50 scored and 10 unscored questions. The clinical portion of the exam calls on examinees to perform between three and six skills tests. The exact number is chosen by the examiner based on level of difficulty.

How long does the test take?

The test is divided into two sections, written and clinical. Students can take up to 90 minutes answering questions on the first section, while the clinical portion takes between 30-40 minutes. The total amount depends on the specific skills the examiner asks the test taker to demonstrate proficiency in.

What is a passing score?

States set individual passing scores based on the National Standard Setting Study. Because of this, no overarching passing score exists. Applicants to the exam should speak with their state board of nursing to get a better sense of what’s required of them to receive certification.

When do I get the results?

Results are available at different times, depending on the state you live in. For the majority of locations, individuals receive printed score reports before they leave the testing center. Some states email the results within 48 business hours of the exam, while others must wait up to five days after the exam to receive emailed results.

How Much Are CNA Classes Online?

Before enrolling in online CNA classes, applicants must ensure they can afford to attend. The cost of higher education continues to rise year-on-year, making it difficult for many individuals to pay out of pocket. Every school sets unique price points for their CNA classes online, so degree seekers should spend time familiarizing themselves with the costs of each so they can make an informed decision. Some programs include the application and exam fees required for actually receiving certification as a CNA while others do not. Pay close attention to what the stated amount is used for and whether you might incur additional fees throughout the learning process.

Depending on the type of school, costs can vary considerably. At Middlesex Community College, for example, students pay $1,199. At Manhattan Institute, however, the cost rises to $6,050. These can vary considerably when looking at public community colleges versus for-profit institutions, so pay close attention to the type of school you attend.

Online CNA Classes that Accept Financial Aid

Financial aid can be a great way to pay for your online CNA classes, but students must meet a few stipulations to qualify. These include:

Accreditation

When looking at prospective online CNA training programs, the first step a student should take is to make sure it received accreditation. In addition to receiving approval from the state board of nursing, learners should also find a school that secured national or regional accreditation. The U.S. Department of Education provides the Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs for students to search individual schools. Nursing accreditation bodies do exist, but they do not accredit CNA programs.

Courses for credit

Some schools offer non-credit CNA programs. Steer clear of these, as many financial aid sources do not recognize these schools when providing funding.

CNA examination pass rates

Some financial aid sources are wary of programs with low student examination pass rates as it signals that the school does not adequately prepare learners. If you cannot find pass rates on the institution’s website, reach out to the program administrator and ask for two or three years’ worth of the most recent examination pass rates.

For more information, check our EduMed’s full page on financial aid for medical support.

How Else Can I Pay for Online CNA Classes?

Because paying out of pocket isn’t realistic for many learners, several funding sources exist to help lighten the financial burden and steer students clear of debilitating debt. In addition to reviewing the ways highlighted below, students should check with their state to find out if any additional methods exist.

1. Scholarships

Scholarships can be found through educational institutions, state and local governments, private foundations, nursing facilities, healthcare companies, and other organizations that want to further the work of CNAs. Research both national and local options early as many require submitted applications months in advance of the program start date. Learn more about scholarship opportunities and other valuable resources for CNA students.

2. Loans, Subsidized and Unsubsidized

The U.S. Department of Education offers a number of subsidized and unsubsidized loans to help cover any portion of an education that the student cannot pay for after exhausting personal income and other funding sources. If possible, seek out a subsidized loan as the government pays the interest on these while the student is enrolled.

3. Veterans benefits

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs provides a number of educational programs designed to offset costs for those who served in the military. Be sure to review each program carefully to find one that you qualify for and that covers CNA programs.

4. Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act

Overseen by the U.S. Department of Labor, the Workforce Investment Act helps individuals access career training programs that result in the employment of dislocated workers considered low-income. Each state receives funding via the federal government to disburse to qualified individuals.

5. Employer Tuition Assistance

Under this scheme, individual companies can provide up to $5,250 in tax-free education assistance per year. Individuals interested in taking advantage of this should speak to their employer to find out if such a program exists at the organization.

6. Payment Plans

Some schools, such as Middlesex Community College, providetuition installment payment plans so learners can begin their studies even if they cannot pay the full amount at once. MXCC arranges payments into three separate installments, but students should speak to their school to learn about specifics.

Find Top-Rated Online CNA Classes in Popular States

CNA Salary & Job Growth

Becoming a certified nursing assistant (CNA) is a great entry-level career in nursing. The national job growth rate for CNAs is 4.2%. In some states, however, the CNA growth rate is three to five times the national average. In Arizona, for example, the CNA job growth rate is 23.5%. A high growth rate means it will be easier to find a job, and there may be more professional development opportunities at work, such as a tuition reimbursement program for continuing education courses or the ability to apply for leadership roles. Nationally, CNAs earn between $30,020 and $48,780 a year. There are some states where the 90th percentile of nurses earn over $50,000 annually, such as California and Minnesota. Alongside location, education and experience impact earnings. To command top dollar, a CNA may consider specializing in a specific type of nursing, such as psychiatric or pediatric nursing.

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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
Alabama	23,140	23,470	330	1.40%	3,330
Alaska	2,160	2,410	250	11.60%	350
Arizona	17,830	22,020	4,190	23.50%	3,240
Arkansas	16,800	17,520	720	4.30%	2,500
California	104,800	119,800	15,000	14.30%	17,390
Colorado	21,310	24,650	3,340	15.70%	3,590
Connecticut	20,340	21,650	1,310	6.40%	3,100
Delaware	4,410	5,260	850	19.30%	770
District of Columbia	2,970	3,180	210	7.10%	460
Florida	91,270	102,910	11,640	12.80%	14,910
Georgia	40,070	45,770	5,700	14.20%	6,650
Idaho	8,040	9,550	1,510	18.80%	1,400
Illinois	58,230	59,460	1,230	2.10%	8,450
Indiana	29,920	31,900	1,980	6.60%	4,580
Iowa	22,400	24,690	2,290	10.20%	3,560
Kansas	22,100	23,450	1,350	6.10%	3,360
Kentucky	19,920	21,090	1,170	5.90%	3,020
Louisiana	17,980	19,570	1,590	8.80%	2,820
Maine	7,920	8,120	200	2.50%	1,160
Maryland	24,790	26,970	2,180	8.80%	3,880
Massachusetts	12,640	13,640	1,000	7.90%	1,960
Michigan	42,680	43,170	490	1.10%	6,130
Minnesota	27,490	28,160	670	2.40%	4,010
Mississippi	10,800	11,830	1,030	9.50%	1,710
Missouri	30,420	32,490	2,070	6.80%	4,660
Montana	5,230	5,910	680	13.00%	860
Nebraska	16,290	17,540	1,250	7.70%	2,520
Nevada	7,600	9,330	1,730	22.80%	1,370
New Hampshire	7,410	7,750	340	4.60%	1,110
New Jersey	35,980	37,260	1,280	3.60%	5,310
New Mexico	4,500	4,990	490	10.90%	720
New York	92,350	114,280	21,930	23.70%	2,190
North Carolina	55,650	62,060	6,410	11.50%	8,970
North Dakota	7,450	8,080	630	8.50%	1,160
Ohio	60,160	60,790	630	1.00%	8,620
Oklahoma	18,860	20,170	1,310	6.90%	2,890
Oregon	13,480	15,260	1,780	13.20%	2,210
Pennsylvania	75,670	78,720	3,050	4.00%	11,230
Rhode Island	9,060	10,010	950	10.50%	1,440
South Carolina	19,300	21,250	1,950	10.10%	3,070
South Dakota	6,000	6,500	500	8.30%	930
Tennessee	22,790	27,720	4,930	21.60%	4,070
Texas	82,400	93,150	10,750	13.00%	13,500
Utah	13,120	16,700	3,580	27.30%	2,470
Vermont	2,970	3,410	440	14.80%	500
Virgin Islands	170	150	-20	-11.80%	20
Virginia	37,640	41,750	4,110	10.90%	6,030
Washington	35,130	39,890	4,760	13.50%	6,290
West Virginia	8,940	9,810	870	9.70%	1,410
Wisconsin	27,230	26,510	-720	-2.60%	3,730
Wyoming	2,700	3,050	350	13.00%	440

Source: Projections Central

Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.

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