Online CNA Classes in Illinois: Reviewing Top Schools
Looking for a quick way to start a career in healthcare? Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant, or CNA, might be the answer. CNAs, sometimes called Nursing Aides, play a vital role in Illinois’ healthcare system, and you can complete your CNA course in as little as a few weeks. Read program reviews and student FAQs to see if an online CNA program in Illinois could be right for you.
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Program Reviews: Online CNA Classes in Illinois
Illinois licensure requirements require hands-on clinical training in all approved CNA programs, but there are options for you to take a portion of your coursework in an online or flexible format. Programs vary by time to complete, clinical and lab course requirements, and more, with some commonalities across most. Which classes work best for you will depend on your professional goals, finances, and location. We’ve profiled several high-quality Illinois CNA programs below to give you an idea of what you might expect.
CNA Program — College of DuPage
The six credit CNA program at College of DuPage is not only approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health, it’s managed by the department itself, ensuring a program that fits state standards to a tee. This is an in-person program, in accordance with state law, which is designed to prepare you to sit for the Illinois Nurse Aide Competency written certification exam, needed to become licensed. The course is broken into three sections, lectures, lab, and clinicals, all of which are necessary to successfully complete the certificate program.
Duration: 1 semester
Mode: In person
Cost: $1,396.95
Admissions Requirements:
- Online application
- Drug test and background check
- Blood test and proof of immunization
- 16 years old or older
- Valid Social Security number
Curriculum:
- Nurse Assistant Training
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CNA Training — Midwest Technical Institute
The Midwest Technical Institute in Springfield, Illinois, offers a seven week CNA training program with multiple start dates throughout the year. Although this is an in-person program, classes are offered on a flexible schedule, with the option to study during evenings or in traditional daytime classes, depending on your schedule. The program is focused on practical learning, with hands-on labs and one-on-one work with your instructors. Upon completion of the program, you should be prepared to take your Illinois CNA certification exam. Career counselling and job placement assistance is available for all students.
Duration: 7 weeks
Mode: In person
Cost: $2,200
Admissions Requirements:
- Online application
- Age 16 or older
- Speak and understand the English language
- Valid Social Security number
Curriculum:
- Introduction to Health Care Systems
- Assisting with activities related to daily living
- Assisting doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals
- Infection control and patient safety
- Diagnostic procedures and technical treatments
CNA Training Program — Joliet Junior College
Joliet Junior College offers a CNA training program which can be completed over a single academic semester. The program is in person, although there are aspects, like orientation, which can be completed online, and classes are offered across two separate campuses. Pass rates on the Illinois Nurse Assistant State Competency Exam for those who have completed the Joliet CNA certificate program are at 97% or higher, well above the state average. You may go on to complete an AAS in Nursing from Joliet Junior College after finishing the certificate. Financial aid may be available for students in the program.
Duration: 1 semester
Mode: In person/Hybrid
Cost: $1,700
Admissions Requirements:
- Online application
- Completed at least an eighth grade schooling level
- At least 16 years of age
- Speak and understand the English language
- Valid Social Security number with copy of the card
- Be in good physical, mental, and emotional health
Curriculum:
- Roles and responsibilities of a nurse assistant
- HIPAA laws
- How to prevent infection/promote safety
- Transfers
- Assisting with activities of daily living
- Specimen collection
- How to care for a person with Alzheimer’s Disease or related dementias
Common FAQs from CNA Students
It’s natural to want to have all the facts before enrolling in CNA classes in Illinois. In fact, many prospective students in your position have questions. To help, here are some commonly asked questions and their answers to get you started in your research.
How long does it take to complete online CNA classes in Illinois?
CNA classes are one of the quickest forms of healthcare career training available. Most programs can be completed in one academic year, in a single semester or less, with some taking as little as eight, six, or even four weeks to complete. Four-week programs are less common, and are typically accelerated. Remember, completing your online or hybrid CNA program in Illinois does not automatically entitle you to work as a CNA; you will still need to pass your exam to become certified before applying for jobs in healthcare settings.
Are there free CNA training programs in Illinois?
In most cases, CNA classes in Illinois are available to students who pay a set tuition. However, there are programs that offer free or very low-cost training, such as Chicago’s Casa Central. Specifically, you’ll start with a three-week personal mindset and professional development training, then launch into CNA classes. Even if you find a program has a set tuition, that might not be your bottom line — tuition assistance may be available to those who qualify, so be sure to check with your school’s bursar and office of financial aid about funding opportunities.
Are online CNA classes in Illinois accredited/approved?
As you explore different online CNA programs in Illinois, it’s critical to choose one approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health. They are the relevant accrediting body for CNA training in the State of Illinois, and if your program is not approved by them, it will not be recognized as valid for purposes of earning your certification. Remember, Illinois does not approve fully online CNA programs; there must be at least some hands-on clinical training in your program to meet state minimums, otherwise the classes will not be valid towards getting your CNA license. Check your program’s accreditation before you enroll.
Do online CNA classes in Illinois offer financial aid?
When you start your CNA classes, you’ll likely have to pursue school-sponsored and private financial aid, rather than federal aid. Typical forms of financial aid from the federal government focus on degrees; therefore, those who pursue certification through CNA classes are not eligible for traditional financial aid. However, many schools offerscholarships and financial assistance programs. It’s also possible to get financial help from a future employer who is willing to pay for the courses in exchange for your promise to work for them for a certain amount of time.
What technology or software do Illinois CNA classes require?
In most cases, an up-to-date computer and basic software will be enough to begin your CNA classes. Because online CNA classes in Illinois use learning management systems like Canvas or Blackboard, your computer will have to be able to handle the requirements for those programs. Speak to the school before you enroll to be certain the technology at your fingertips is suitable for completing the coursework and make any necessary updates before classes start. And whatever technology you’ll use to access your classroom materials, followthese tips for ideas to stay connected as an online student.
Illinois Salary & Career Potential for CNAs
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. | $31,390 | $39,530 | $50,140 |
| Illinois | $36,270 | $44,750 | $50,800 |
| Bloomington, IL | $35,650 | $39,770 | $47,670 |
| Champaign-Urbana, IL | $36,880 | $43,720 | $47,910 |
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN | $38,170 | $46,050 | $51,980 |
| Decatur, IL | $35,350 | $40,800 | $49,810 |
| Kankakee, IL | $31,410 | $37,350 | $47,870 |
| Peoria, IL | $36,060 | $39,660 | $49,340 |
| Rockford, IL | $36,250 | $38,960 | $47,990 |
| Springfield, IL | $35,920 | $41,080 | $48,720 |
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 |
| Illinois | 58,230 | 59,460 | 1,230 | 2.10% | 8,450 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Best Schools for Online CNA Classes in Illinois
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,465 Avg. Aid Amount
- 58% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Olney Central College
- The Nursing Assistant program at Illinois Eastern Community Colleges (IECC) offers an accelerated 8-week completion option alongside the standard 16-week format, allowing students to enter the workforce faster.
- IECC’s CNA program features high recent pass rates on the required competency test, demonstrating strong preparedness and program effectiveness for students.
- The program provides training across multiple IECC campuses, enhancing accessibility and opportunities for clinical placements in diverse healthcare settings throughout the region.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,465 Avg. Aid Amount
- 58% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,941 Avg. Aid Amount
- 40% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Carl Sandburg College
- The Nursing Assistant program at Carl Sandburg College includes supervised clinical experiences at a long-term healthcare facility, providing hands-on skills through simulation labs and real-world practice.
- Completion of the program makes students eligible to take the Illinois State Nursing Aide Competency Exam, and upon passing, they are added to the Healthcare Worker Registry to gain employment as certified nursing assistants.
- The program aligns with Illinois Department of Public Health guidelines, serving as a strong foundation for further nursing career pathways such as Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN), enhancing long-term career advancement opportunities.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,941 Avg. Aid Amount
- 40% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,438 Avg. Aid Amount
- 38% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Shawnee Community College
- The Anna-Jonesboro Certified Nurse Assistant program offers significant cost savings through $0.00 tuition for dual credit courses available at the Union County Extension Center, greatly reducing financial barriers for high school students.
- Students complete their practical clinical hours off-campus, providing real-world experience that enhances job readiness in long-term care and home health settings under professional supervision.
- The program guarantees eligibility to take the Illinois Department of Public Health’s Certified Nursing Assistant Examination upon completion, facilitating direct entry into certified employment in healthcare.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,438 Avg. Aid Amount
- 38% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Waubonsee Community College
Sugar Grove, ILProgram Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $1,110 Avg. Aid Amount
- 40% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 21/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Waubonsee Community College
- The Nursing Assistant program offers financial support through Waubonsee Works and Illinois workNet programs, potentially covering tuition, fees, books, and supplies for eligible students aged 18 to 24.
- Students benefit from a hybrid class format with a 100% pass rate on the Illinois Nurse Aide Competency Exam for the first hybrid cohort, combining online and hands-on clinical training.
- Clinical experience is integrated with practical, hands-on training in long-term care facilities one day a week, enhancing job readiness and real-world skills.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $1,110 Avg. Aid Amount
- 40% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 21/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,416 Avg. Aid Amount
- 44% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected John Wood Community College
- The Nursing Assistant program offers significant financial support through the PATH grant, providing free education/training, stipends for books, transportation, and childcare assistance.
- Students benefit from waived prior unpaid fees and access to loanable laptops and Wi-Fi hotspots via the PATH student support services.
- The program emphasizes high employment potential by aligning training with high-wage, in-demand healthcare occupations, accompanied by job placement support.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,416 Avg. Aid Amount
- 44% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,551 Avg. Aid Amount
- 36% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Black Hawk College
- Black Hawk College's Nursing Assistant program offers the option to enroll through the Start College Now program for high school students, providing an accelerated pathway to certification while still in school.
- The program includes a clinical practicum component where students gain hands-on experience working in healthcare agencies, enhancing job readiness with real-world patient care.
- Students completing the Patient Care Assistant Certificate through the program also earn Phlebotomy Certification and Basic Nurse Assistant Training credentials, providing multiple certifications for broader employment opportunities.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,551 Avg. Aid Amount
- 36% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,446 Avg. Aid Amount
- 65% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Rend Lake College
- 1. Rend Lake College offers over 350 scholarships annually, totaling more than $350,000, with one application covering all eligible scholarships, simplifying financial aid access for CNA students.
- 2. Veterans pursuing the CNA program at RLC can benefit from a dedicated Veterans Tuition Scholarship, helping reduce education costs for service members transitioning careers.
- 3. The CNA program at Rend Lake College provides strong employer connections and hiring opportunities post-completion, enhancing student job placement prospects in healthcare facilities.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,446 Avg. Aid Amount
- 65% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,426 Avg. Aid Amount
- 47% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Illinois Central College
- The Nursing Assistant program at Illinois Central College offers a hybrid course format with online assignments, labs, and hands-on clinical experience, allowing flexible scheduling for busy students.
- High school students in the service area benefit from reduced tuition costs, making the program more affordable for younger learners.
- The program provides clinical experience in multiple healthcare settings across the area, enhancing practical skills and job readiness after completion.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,426 Avg. Aid Amount
- 47% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,922 Avg. Aid Amount
- 50% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Sauk Valley Community College
- The Nursing Assistant program at Sauk Valley Community College offers an accelerated completion option, allowing students to finish the curriculum in either eight or sixteen weeks through combined classroom and clinical learning activities.
- Students gain eligibility to take the Illinois Nurse Aide Certification Exam immediately after completion, ensuring a direct pathway to certification and employment opportunities.
- The program is state-approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health, providing government-recognized certification that supports employment in diverse healthcare settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, and home care agencies.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,922 Avg. Aid Amount
- 50% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,105 Avg. Aid Amount
- 44% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Spoon River College
- The Nursing Assistant program offers accelerated completion options, allowing students to finish training and enter the workforce quickly.
- It provides high clinical placement rates through hands-on experience in medical facilities, ensuring practical skill development and employer readiness.
- The program fosters strong employer partnerships that enhance job placement opportunities and career advancement pathways for graduates.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,105 Avg. Aid Amount
- 44% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘25-’26 school year.
One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs
To be eligible for ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves:
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- At least one online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.
- The existence of academic and career counseling on campus and/or online.
Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs
After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the school themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS.
The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted*.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area.
- Avg. Aid Amount – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Students w/ Aid – Percent of full-time, first-time students undergraduates awarded institutional aid.
- Online Enrollment – Percent of undergraduate students taking at least one distance education class.
- Graduation Rate – Percent of full-time, first-time receiving an award in 6 years.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
*Metrics #2-5 and #6-7 were equally weighted.
About Our Data
EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2025
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