CNA Classes in Aurora, Illinois

Aurora CNA Training - Illinois

You can receive your CNA certification in as little as 3 to 8 weeks.

Admissions Advisor Tip: Don't limit your options. Contact multiple schools to to compare their different offers, like financial aid packages.

Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Aurora, Illinois

Are you considering a rewarding career in healthcare? Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Aurora, Illinois might be the perfect path for you. This article will provide you with all the information you need to start your journey, including local CNA training programs, employment opportunities, and certification requirements.

About Aurora

Aurora, Illinois, known as the “City of Lights,” is the second-largest city in the state. Located in the Chicago metropolitan area, Aurora boasts a rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant community. The city is home to the Paramount Theatre, the Aurora Regional Fire Museum, and the scenic Phillips Park. For more information about Aurora, visit the official Aurora website.

CNA Training Programs in Aurora, Illinois

If you’re looking to become a CNA in Aurora, there are several local schools offering nursing assistant programs and courses. Here are three notable options:

1. Waubonsee Community College
   • Program: Basic Nurse Assistant Training Program
   • Description: Waubonsee Community College offers a comprehensive CNA program that prepares students for the Illinois Nurse Aide Competency Exam. The program includes classroom instruction, lab practice, and clinical experience.
   • Location: Aurora Downtown Campus
   • Website: Waubonsee Community College CNA Program
2. College of DuPage
   • Program: Basic Nursing Assistant Training
   • Description: Located in nearby Glen Ellyn, College of DuPage provides a thorough CNA program that covers essential nursing skills, patient care, and safety procedures. The program includes both theoretical and practical training.
   • Location: Glen Ellyn (approximately 20 miles from Aurora)
   • Website: College of DuPage CNA Program
3. Joliet Junior College
   • Program: Certified Nurse Assistant Program
   • Description: Joliet Junior College offers a CNA program designed to equip students with the skills needed for entry-level nursing assistant positions. The program includes coursework and hands-on clinical training.
   • Location: Joliet (approximately 25 miles from Aurora)
   • Website: Joliet Junior College CNA Program

CNA Employment Opportunities in Aurora

Aurora offers a variety of employment opportunities for CNAs in healthcare facilities and nursing homes. Here are some major employers:

1. Rush Copley Medical Center
   • Description: Rush Copley Medical Center is a leading healthcare provider in Aurora, offering a wide range of medical services. They frequently have openings for CNAs in various departments.
   • Location: Near East Side
   • Website: Rush Copley Medical Center Careers
2. Presence Mercy Medical Center
   • Description: Presence Mercy Medical Center, part of the AMITA Health network, provides comprehensive healthcare services and has multiple opportunities for CNAs.
   • Location: Near West Side
   • Website: Presence Mercy Medical Center Careers
3. Alden of Waterford
   • Description: Alden of Waterford is a rehabilitation and nursing care facility in Aurora, offering long-term and short-term care services. They regularly hire CNAs to join their team.
   • Location: Fox Valley
   • Website: Alden of Waterford Careers

CNA Certification Requirements in Illinois

To become a Certified Nursing Assistant in Illinois, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program: Enroll in and complete a state-approved CNA training program, which includes both classroom instruction and clinical practice.
2. Pass the Competency Exam: Successfully pass the Illinois Nurse Aide Competency Exam, which tests both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
3. Background Check: Undergo a criminal background check as part of the certification process.
4. Registry Listing: Get listed on the Illinois Nurse Aide Registry.

For more information, visit the Illinois Department of Public Health and the Illinois Nurse Aide Registry.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant in Aurora, Illinois, is a fulfilling and impactful choice. With the right training and certification, you can make a significant difference in the lives of patients and their families. Contact a local school today to learn more about their CNA programs and take the first step towards your new career!

PCT · CNA · CMA – What’s the Difference?

This depends on where you live. Some PCT courses include EKG and phlebotomy training. Some Patient Care Technician programs also include HHA (Home Health Aid) certification. However, in some work environments the titles CNA and PCT are used interchangably. Some hospitals in Illinois may be hiring Nurse Care Techs (NCT), a position which you can apply for with your CNA license.

CMA can stand for Certified Medication Aide or Certified Medical Assistant, both which perform separate but overlapping duties in the workplace.

How Much Does CNA Training Cost in Aurora?

Nursing assistant courses at vocational colleges and allied health schools usually range between $400 and $1200. When choosing a CNA school, learn about all the associated costs required at each institution. Some schools list their program cost as all expenses included. However other schools may also require you to purchase additional materials (such as books, scrubs and materials for your clinicals) which have separate fees from the tuition costs.

CNA Refresher Courses around Aurora usually cost around $100-$200.

Need Tuition Assistance?

While not all schools offer financial aid for students enrolled in their CNA course, some training programs may offer assistance to help with the cost of the course or certification. Also, some CNA employers will even pay for your Nurse Assistant training or reimburse you after you successfully complete your CNA training.

Some employers in Aurora will cover a percentage of your CNA tuition; others will pay tuition costs up to a specific dollar amount. Often, new CNAs are required to work a particular number of months at the employer that covered their school bills. Or you may just need to reimburse them for any of the tuition costs they paid on your behalf.

When Can I Start CNA Training in Aurora?

Many schools that offer CNA training have new sessions beginning every 6 to 8 weeks. In many areas in Illinois, you can find CNA training starting in October 2025, November 2025, December 2025, or January 2026 available for registration now. Unlike nursing programs in Illinois, you can usually find a school starting a new session of their CNA course fairly quickly. However, some schools offer CNA classes in semester format. At these schools, you may need to wait up 3 or 4 months to start your course.

Becoming a Nurse Aide in Aurora is a great way to quickly gain experience in the medical field. Also check out Illinois CNA Salary info.