The Nurse Aide training program prepares individuals to work in long-term care facilities and hospitals. The program includes a combination of classroom instruction, lab practice, and clinical experience to equip students with the skills necessary to provide safe and effective patient and resident care. The hybrid option combines online coursework and face-to-face sessions, followed by a clinical setting for hands-on experience. 

Duration: Varies based on class schedule; generally, the program includes 35 hours of classroom instruction, 20 hours of laboratory practice, and 45 hours of clinical experience. 

Format: Hybrid (in-person and online) and face-to-face options available. 

Certifications: After completing the program, students are eligible to take the Direct Care Worker registry written and skills exams to become a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA). 

Career and Industry Outlook 

Career Opportunities: CNAs work in various healthcare settings, including nursing homes, hospitals, home health care, assisted living, rehabilitation centers, hospice care, adult day care centers, psychiatric facilities, schools, and correctional facilities. They assist with daily activities, provide emotional support, monitor patient health, assist in rehabilitation, and ensure compassionate care. 

Employment Rate: The demand for CNAs remains strong due to an aging population and the need for healthcare support across multiple settings. 

Salary Expectations: The average salary for a CNA in Iowa will vary depending on experience and location. 

Job Market Trends: There is a continuous need for CNAs, with particular demand in long-term care facilities, home health care, and hospitals due to the aging population and healthcare needs. The CNA profession also offers opportunities for advancement, including roles in nursing and specialized care fields. 

Program Details 

Program Specific Details: The program includes 35 hours of theory, 20 hours of lab practice, and 45 hours of clinical experience in a nursing home or long-term care facility. The hybrid option includes online coursework and face-to-face skill-building sessions, followed by a clinical placement. 

Pathway to Credit: Successful completion of the program allows students to sit for the State of Iowa CNA certification exams, a requirement for employment as a CNA in Iowa. Certification ensures placement on the Iowa Direct Care Worker Registry. 

Cost and Financial Assistance 

Tuition Fees: Check the program’s page for up-to-date pricing based on the course offerings and location. 

Tuition Assistance Options: Financial aid may be available through workforce development programs or grants. Specific financial assistance details can be provided upon request. 

Work-Study Programs: N/A for this program, but some students may be eligible for state-based workforce development funding or job placement assistance.  

How to Enroll 

Enrollment Process: Students can start the enrollment process by completing the Education to Employment Interest Form available on the program’s webpage. Attendance at a mandatory orientation session is required approximately one week prior to the start of training. 

Eligibility Requirements:  

1. Students must be at least 16 years old at the time of the mandatory orientation.  
2. A high school diploma or GED is encouraged, and a letter of acknowledgment is required if the student is still in high school. 
3. Strength and endurance to meet the Iowa Core Performance Standards. 
4. Vaccinations: 
   • Hepatitis B vaccine series or a signed waiver 
   • COVID vaccine series or a signed waiver 
   • Influenza vaccine or a signed waiver 
   • Tuberculosis (TB) screening 
5. A completed Health History form (No physical examination is required). 
6. A criminal background check and adult/dependent and child abuse check are required by Iowa law. 
7. Attendance at a mandatory orientation session approximately one week prior to start of training. 

Deadlines: Enrollment deadlines vary; check with NIACC for the next available session. 

Next Steps After Interest Form: Once the interest form is submitted, students will be contacted by staff from the Education to Employment team to discuss program enrollment and tuition assistance options.  

Program Requirements & Equipment 

Required Equipment or Supplies: A reliable computer with internet access is required for online components of the hybrid course. 

Pre-Course Skills & Expectations: Basic technology skills are required to participate in the hybrid format. Students must be able to meet the Iowa Core Performance Standards and demonstrate strength and endurance suitable for the CNA role. 

Additional Considerations:  

• A criminal background check, adult/dependent and child abuse check, and several vaccinations are required by Iowa law. Students must also complete a health history form. All applicants must attend the mandatory orientation session before starting the program.   
• Upon completion of the Nurse Aide training program, a State of Iowa certification written exam, and a skills demonstration exam is completed. A score of 70% or better is passing. Passing these exams is required in order to be placed on the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals Direct Care Worker Registry (formerly Iowa Nurse Aide Registry). Placement on the registry is necessary to be employed as a nurse aide in long-term care in Iowa. Certification requires identification with a social security number and government issued identification. Exam Fees are approximately $175.