Career Degrees & Certificates
Basic Nurse Assistant Training
Certificate of AchievementOverview
The need for nurse assistants - sometimes called nurses’ aide - is on the rise, along with skyrocketing demand for personal medical services around the clock.
If you’re looking for a career that combines personal interaction with medical knowledge, nurse assistant is it.
You can get started in this essential profession by enrolling in Waubonsee’s Nurse Assistant Program. We offer multiple enrollment opportunities in this program in the fall and spring terms and it can be completed in a single semester.Use the credential to quickly get a job and perhaps as a springboard to an advanced health care career.
This program does have special admission and registration processes. The Health Professions and Public Service office can provide further guidance and information. Please contact (630) 870-3900 or HPPS@waubonsee.edu.
Studying Nurse Assisting at Waubonsee
Designed to prepare students to excel in the role of nurse assistant in a variety of health care settings, Waubonsee’s Nurse Assistant Certificate Program is efficient but extensive. Curriculum in our state-of-the-art classrooms and labs includes basic nursing procedures, food service, body mechanics, safety measures, special treatments, communication skills, and care of persons with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Hands-on, practical clinical experiences are provided in long-term care facilities. Read the Nurse Assistant Student Handbook (PDF) to understand current course requirements and expectations.
Our nurse assisting program is instructed by highly-trained faculty, which means students are getting the best possible education. And Waubonsee’s program, which is approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health, had a pass rate of over 80% on the Illinois Nurse Aide Competency Exam in 2021 .
Waubonsee does not offer CNA license recertification on site. You can find a list of Approved Evaluators and details of the process online at Illinois Nurse Aide Testing.
1
semester of coursework
1
industry credentials (CNA)
1,000s
of job openings
Career Program Outcomes
See what you'll be able to do once you complete one of our career-focused AAS degree or certificate programs.
Study Tuition-Free
If you're between the ages of 18-24 and are in need of financial assistance, you may be able to get your tuition, fees, books and supplies paid for through the Waubonsee Works program.
Meet Your Faculty
View a listing of faculty members in this program.
Working in Nurse Assisting
Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) are among the most valued and personal caregivers in health care, engaging actively and regularly with patients in a variety of medical and residential settings. Nursing students rely on a sincere desire to give comfort and empathy, and receive satisfaction knowing their work improves the lives and well-being of others.
Progressing in Health Care
Nurse assistant certification may serve as a springboard for a variety of careers within the health care field, such as registered nurse, medical assistant, phlebotomy technician or massage therapist.
Career Prospects
Description
Annual Earnings
Employment Projections
Expected costs* of CNA program
| Class and student fees: (for in-district student, 6 credit hours) |
$983 |
| Textbooks: | $158 |
| Uniforms/Shoes: | $43 |
| Supplies: | $132 |
| Drug screen: | $121 |
| Fingerprint background check: | $29 |
| Illinois Nurse Aide Testing Fee | $75 |
| Estimated Total: | $1,541 |
*These costs are estimates and may change without notice.
Learn more about costs and payments at Waubonsee.
Other Programs You May Be Interested In
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BLS Provider CPR
American Heart Association | NoncreditEmergency Medical Technician
Emergency Medical Technician – Basic - Certificate of Achievement
Emergency Medical Technician – Paramedic - Associate in Applied Science (AAS)
Emergency Medical Technician – Paramedic - Certificate of Achievement
