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Online CNA Classes in Texas

Becoming a certified nursing aide in Texas can be a quick path to an in-demand career in the thriving healthcare field. Learn about approved CNA training online programs that can open the door to a meaningful career and a bright future.

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Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) play an essential role in enhancing patient-care, sharing key patient information with nurses and physicians, and performing tasks that contribute to the smooth operation of healthcare establishments. The journey to becoming a CNA varies across states, so if you’re living in Texas and you have aspirations of becoming a CNA, we’ll help you learn how.

Prospective CNAs in Texas can pursue their training and classes through local colleges or vocational schools, many of which offer online programs. Pursuing an online CNA education in Texas provides you with both convenience and learning flexibility, enabling you to take some coursework online while still receiving local support during your practical clinical sessions in a nearby facility. State-approved CNA programs provide a high-quality curriculum designed to prepare you to pass Texas’ certification requirements. If you’re thinking about taking some CNA classes online as a student in Texas, this guide will help you learn what to expect from your education as well as what your career might look like afterwards.

Find Online Texas CNA Classes in a City Near You

FAQs About Online CNA Classes and Training in Texas

Can I really complete my CNA training online in Texas?

Yes, you really can do some of your CNA training online as a student in Texas, but you just might not be able to do all of it since the hands-on nature of a CNA education can make it challenging to find a fully online program. Typically, students will enroll in courses as their local vocational, technical, or community college. These courses can be scheduled during the day, in the evenings, or even over the weekends. While programs typically required significant classroom attendance, many programs have adjusted that requirement in recent years to shift to hybrid models. In these hybrid models, the course content is delivered online while clinicals are completed in-person.

How much do online CNA classes cost in Texas?

When you’re choosing the best online CNA classes and program for your needs, make sure you know how much they will cost. Here’s what to expect from a few of the programs you’ll find in Texas, but it’s important to remember that the tuition costs shown below may not include fees or textbooks. Tuition can change without notice, so it’s always best to check with your schools of interest to see what they are charging for their CNA programs.

North-Central-Texas-College

North Central
Texas College

Certified Nurse Aide

Total Hours: 100

Cost for program: $899

com

College of the
Mainland

Certified Nurse Aide

Total Hours: 118

Cost for program: $1,858

Northeast Texas

Northeast Texas
Community College

Certified Nurses Aide

Total Hours: 100

Cost for program: $931

How long is an online CNA program in Texas?

A: The time it takes to become a CNA in Texas depends strongly upon the student’s preference for full-time, part-time, or accelerated programs. A student who chooses to attend training part-time at only a few hours per week might take six months to complete the program, while an accelerated program can be completed in three to six weeks. Some schools will also allow gaps in the program, such as completing the classroom portion but then waiting several weeks before embarking on the hands-on portion of the program.

Texas CNA Program Online Spotlights

We’ve identified some of the top CNA programs in Texas, notable for their affordability, flexibility in scheduling, strong student support, approval by the state of Texas, and accreditation through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges. These programs have also been approved by Texas Health and Human Services. Learn more about three CNA programs that stand out for 2022.

Lone Star College

Lone Star

Lone State College is a leader in Texas for medical and health programs, and the nurse aide certificate (CNA) program is no exception. The school offers a non-credit fast track program and goes above the minimum required hours for the state of Texas with 64 non-contact hours and 44 contact hours, bringing the total to 108 hours of classroom and hands-on experience. The total cost is $128, making the program quite affordable for students who want to get the training they need, sit for the exam, and start work as soon as possible. Students must go through a background check, get the required immunizations, and fulfill all government document requirements to be accepted into the program and take the exam.

Austin Community College

acc

Students at Austin Community College can expect to spend anywhere from seven to 15 weeks in the certified nurse aide program, depending upon how fast they want to complete the work. Some students might choose a minimum of 10 hours per week, while others want to hit their CNA career goals faster with 40 hours of training each week. Tuition is currently $554 not including books or fees. The school has a program coordinator to keep students on track, an emailing list to keep students well informed, and registration help for those who aren’t sure about what route to take to earn their CNA.

Houston Community College

Arizona

The certified nurse aide program at Houston Community College consists of 108 hours of classroom and hands-on training. Prerequisites include completion of vaccinations, drug screening and criminal background check, CPR certification, and possession of the proper clothing (such as scrubs) before starting classes. Those interested in learning more can attend virtual information sessions, which are hosted on a regular basis by those who teach the program. Expect a cost of $895 for the program, not including supplies and fees.

How Do I Become a CNA in Texas?

Becoming a CNA in Texas means more than taking a few classes and getting a certificate. There are essential processes that make you eligible to work in nursing homes and other skilled care facilities. Depending on where you want to work, it’s important to know these requirements ahead of time and plan accordingly. Take these steps as you work towards becoming a CNA in Texas.

STEP

1

Enroll in a state-approved nurse aide training and competency evaluation program (NATCE)

As an aspiring online CNA student in Texas, you are not required to have a GED or high school diploma, but you do have to be free from certain criminal offenses. Generally, those with clear records can directly enroll in a CNA program and begin their training. Typically, you’ll have to provide proof of immunizations, undergo drug testing, and have CPR training to be admitted into a program. It’s important to choose a program approved by the state of Texas to make sure you’re receiving a top-tier education that smoothly transitions into employment following the successful completion of the competency exam. Find a list of approved programs in Texas here.

STEP

2

Complete your CNA classes and clinical training

Every state-approved program is required to offer a total of 100 hours of training to students: 60 of which must be done in the classroom and 40 as hands-on training with patients. Before students are allowed to make their first direct contact with a patient, they are required to have an initial 16 hours of introductory training. This preliminary training focuses on areas like communication, infection control measures, safety protocols, emergency procedures, fostering patient independence, and the preservation of residents’ rights. Once you’re done with this required training, you are eligible to sit for the nurse aide competency examination.

STEP

3

Pass the nurse aide competency exam

Those who have completed a Texas-approved training course within the last 24 months are eligible for the exam. Prometric is the organization administering the exam. It will confirm your eligibility, and then you can register for the test. Submit the required fees and schedule the exam, then pass both the written and oral sections within 24 months of graduation from your CNA training program. You have three attempts to pass before being required to retrain.

STEP

4

Begin gaining valuable experience

Once you’ve passed the exam, it’s time to get started on the next phase of your journey. Submit applications to places where you’d like to work. Join the Texas Nurse Aid Registry. Take on jobs that will give you hands-on experience working with patients, which will boost your resume when you’re ready to move up in your company or move to another position somewhere else.

STEP

5

Keep your certification current

CNAs are required to renew their certification every two years with 24 hours of in-service education. Texas Human Health and Services provides a list of programs approved to meet that requirement. Twelve of those 24 hours can be completed somewhere other than a facility licensed or certified by HHS, the Texas Board of Nursing, or the Texas Department of State Health Services.

Salary and Job Outlook for CNAs in Texas

When you move into any new career, it’s important to have a good idea of the job market, where to expect the best employment options, and the salary you can expect to receive.

Are CNAs in high demand in Texas?

After completing your program and passing the required exam, you’re in luck as Texas has one of the nation’s highest employment levels for CNAs, specifically in the Houston area. Job demand is expected to persist in skilled nursing facilities, general medical and surgical hospitals, as well as assisted living facilities. Home healthcare services are also good places to find employment as a CNA. Here’s what to expect from Texas employment versus the national average for the profession.

Job Outlook for Certified Nursing Aides in Texas

Employment (2018) New Jobs (2018-2028) Job Growth Rate (2018-2028) Average Annual Openings (2018-2028)
Texas 91,230 10,560 11.60% 11,870
United States 1,513,200 135,400 8.90% 190,700

Source: Projections Central

How much do CNAs make in Texas?

When trying to find a job as a CNA, it’s probably no surprise that the majority of opportunities are in major metropolitan areas. With there being strong competition among skilled nursing facilities and other healthcare establishments, the pay grades are set accordingly. While compensation in Texas generally aligns with the national average, it’s worth noting that certain regions within the state may offer higher pay than others.

Annual Earnings for Certified Nursing Aides in Texas

Location 10th Percentile Median 90th Percentile

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2021

Similar Texas Nursing Programs You May Be Interested In

If you’re thinking about a CNA program, you might be interested in other entry-level degrees that allow you to enter the medical profession in Texas. Here are a few to consider.

  • Online LVN Programs in TexasWorking as a licensed vocational nurse (LVN) enables you to work closely with patients on a day-to-day basis while under the supervision of a registered nurse or other healthcare professional. You can build strong experience in a medical facility, which can be valuable if you choose to expand your career later on and pursue a registered nursing degree.
  • Online ADN Programs in TexasChoosing an associate degree in nursing can lead to a career as a registered nurse. This job comes with higher pay and good job security, as there is a perpetual nursing shortage around the country and RNs are in high demand. Those who choose to become an RN through the associate degree route can later earn their bachelor’s and then move on to their master’s in RN, which can both be completed online.

Texas CNA Student and Professional Resources