Online CNA Classes in Minnesota: View Top Schools & Get Info
If you’re ready to work directly with patients and make a difference fast, a CNA program is a great place to start. Minnesota’s online options let you learn at home, complete your clinicals in approved settings, and step confidently into your first healthcare role.
The following professionals lent their expertise to this article:
Healthcare Education Nursing Medical Coding
Healthcare Education Advanced Nursing NursingWhat to Consider When Choosing a CNA Program in Minnesota, from Nurses Who’ve Been There
Quality CNA programs in Minnesota are more available than ever, and the options in this ranking have all earned their place. Deciding between them comes down to what you need personally: how clinical hours will fit your schedule and whether you’re looking for a stepping stone into nursing or a long-term role. Our experts share their guidance.
Get the Full Schedule Breakdown
One thing worth asking before enrolling in a hybrid program is how the schedule breaks down week to week. If you’re working around a job or childcare, a surprise in-person session can be difficult to manage even if most of your lectures are online.
Soft Skills Matter Most
In CNA programs, whether in Minnesota or elsewhere, don’t underestimate the importance of patience, communication, and compassion, especially when caring for older adults or people living with dementia. Some of the best CNAs I’ve worked with were remembered for their kindness and communication.
Exploring Online CNA Classes in Minnesota
Earning your CNA certificate online in Minnesota is a flexible and affordable way to start a healthcare career. Most coursework can be completed from home, with programs offering either:
- Synchronous Classes – live online sessions at a scheduled time
- Asynchronous Classes – materials you complete on your own schedule
However, nearly all CNA programs in Minnesota follow a hybrid format, meaning you’ll complete in-person clinical practice hours before earning your certificate.
Below are three CNA programs in Minnesota with online components. You’ll find details on cost, curriculum, time to completion, and how to qualify.
Nursing Assistant – Century College
Century College is a public community college offering a flexible and affordable nursing assistant certificate program with both credit and noncredit pathways. Many courses include online components, reducing commute time and supporting students with other commitments. The program also includes 16 hours of supervised clinical experience.
Instruction emphasizes real-world scenarios to prepare students for work in long-term care, acute care, or home care settings. Century College offers financial aid for qualifying students, and the state CNA certification exam is included in the course cost.
Duration: 2 months
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $1,154
Admissions Requirements:
- Age 16 or older
- Background check
- Assessment score or placement for English/reading
Curriculum:
- Basic Nursing Skills
- Infection Control Interventions
- Safety and Emergency Procedures
- Resident Care
- Mental Health and Social Service Nursing
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Nursing Assistant – Hennepin Technical College
Hennepin Technical College’s nursing assistant program teaches foundational CNA skills in a flexible hybrid format that blends online coursework with hands-on experience in real healthcare settings. Students learn how to meet patients’ basic needs, communicate with coworkers and families, and provide care in hospitals, home health settings, and long-term care facilities.
While clinical hours are required, academic coursework is 100% online.
Duration: 2 months
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $800
Admissions Requirements:
- Age 16 or older
- Qualifying score on reading assessment
Curriculum:
- Person-Centered Care
- Care Techniques for Elderly Patients
- Infection Control Principals
- Dementia Stages and Characteristics
- NA’s Role in End of Life Care
Nursing Assistant Training – The College of St. Scholastica
The College of St. Scholastica’s Nursing Assistant Training course combines asynchronous online classes with on-campus lab and clinical instruction. Nursing faculty teach the course and provide thorough preparation for the state’s nursing assistant registry test.
The curriculum covers care environments such as nursing homes, home health agencies, clinics, and hospitals. While the college doesn’t offer direct financial aid for this program, students may qualify for state technical education grants or tuition support through medical facilities across Minnesota.
Duration: 2 months
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $1,225
Admissions Requirements:
- Age 16 or older
Curriculum:
- Basic Nursing Skills
- Taking Vital Signs
- Answering Patient Calls
- Documentation of Care Patterns
- Assisting the Nursing Team
Answering Frequently Asked Questions from Students
Below are answers to common questions about online CNA classes in Minnesota, certification requirements, and what the role looks like in practice.
What are the best skills I need to possess to be an effective CNA?
You need patience, persistence, and strong communication skills.
A CNA course will teach you the basics of nursing care, but success in the role also requires calmness under pressure, respect for privacy, attention to changes in a patient’s condition, and a willingness to learn different care approaches. Combining these skills with teamwork helps you grow quickly in the role.
Expert Insight
If you enjoy being physically active, doing hands-on work, and making a real difference in people’s lives, then you’re well on your way to being a great CNA.
Should the online CNA program I choose be accredited?
Yes, you should choose a CNA program that is approved by the Minnesota Department of Health.
Approved programs meet state requirements, including a minimum of 75 training hours with 16 supervised clinical hours. You can also look at a program’s state exam pass rates, which often indicate curriculum quality. Many programs list their pass rates online, or you can contact the school’s advising staff.
Expert Insight
Another good way to gauge a program’s learning experience is to look up reviews written by former students. They may share key details that you wouldn’t otherwise know or consider.
What exam do CNAs take before they can work in Minnesota?
You’ll take Minnesota’s CNA knowledge and skills exam. The state uses a test equivalent to the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam used in 18 states. The exam includes:
- A written portion that tests knowledge of nursing practice
- A practical skills evaluation where you demonstrate five care skills
Passing the exam places you on the Minnesota CNA registry, allowing you to work as a CNA. You’ll also need to renew your license periodically.
Is there financial aid available for CNA programs in Minnesota?
Yes, financial aid is available for Minnesota CNA students who qualify, but it ultimately depends on the program and format.
Many noncredit CNA certificates do not qualify for federal financial aid. Programs that offer for-credit pathways may be eligible for federal or state aid. Check with the school’s financial aid office before applying. Even if a program doesn’t accept federal aid, you may be able to use state grants or private scholarships.
What type of work should I expect when I start to work as a CNA?
You’ll provide direct patient care and support daily living activities as a CNA in Minnesota. CNA work focuses on patient comfort and communication. You’ll help with basic needs, mobility, vital signs, and documenting changes in condition. In Minnesota, CNAs typically work in:
- Hospitals
- Nursing homes
- Long-term care facilities
- Home health agencies
CNAs work under the supervision of a nurse leader or clinical manager, and their support is essential to patient safety and quality care.
Earnings & Employment Outlook for CNAs in Minnesota
Nursing Assistants
| Area | 10th Percentile | Median | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | $38,010 | $46,680 | $55,410 |
| Duluth, MN-WI | $36,180 | $44,250 | $48,760 |
| Fargo, ND-MN | $33,050 | $39,940 | $50,800 |
| Grand Forks, ND-MN | $35,330 | $45,740 | $48,830 |
| La Crosse-Onalaska, WI-MN | $37,530 | $43,510 | $47,220 |
| Mankato, MN | $41,500 | $46,430 | $56,770 |
| Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, MN-WI | $39,510 | $48,020 | $56,090 |
| Rochester, MN | $38,340 | $46,840 | $53,820 |
| Sioux Falls, SD-MN | $31,110 | $39,190 | $45,850 |
| St. Cloud, MN | $37,840 | $40,130 | $55,680 |
Source: Nursing Assistants, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2025
Data does not reflect school-specific information.
Nursing Assistants
| 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 |
| Minnesota | 27,490 | 28,160 | 670 | 2.40% | 4,010 |
Source: Projections Central
