How Long Are CNA Classes?

Among the most frequent questions people have about enrolling in CNA classes relates to the topic of program duration: How long are CNA Classes? The answer to that question depends on where and how you take your classes.

Most conventional CNA curricula deliver 75- to 120- hours of classroom instruction and clinical experience. Full-time students can take classes during the day and complete the course in four weeks. Part-time students can take classes during the evening and complete the course in six- to eight-weeks.

Bear in mind, these estimates are based on the average length of programs offered nationally. Some CNA classes run three months and others run nine months to a year. Community colleges may blend CNA courses with core courses and spread the program over two years. The length of each program may be shorter or longer, depending on the agency or institution.

State requirements also affect the length of CNA programs. Certain states offer multiple levels of CNA certification. For instance, Oregon offers CNA I and II designations. Oklahoma offers CNA I, II and III. Achieving the highest level of certification in these states tacks on additional time to your studies. Also, if you relocate to one of these states, you may need to go back for additional training to meet state requirements.

Now, if you want to know how long it takes to become a CNA, the answer depends entirely on the individual. From initial enrollment to course completion, students can reasonably expect to exit a CNA program within three to six months. Beyond that, students must factor in the time it takes to register and sit for exams, job hunting and interviews. If offered employment, students must complete background checks, physical exams and orientation. Students who meet their requirements in a timely matter will be well on their way toward the goal of becoming a CNA.

Where to Look for a CNA Job

For newly-certified nursing assistants, the prospect of finally venturing out into the workplace in search of their first CNA job is often an intimidating one. Armed with the right tools and a sound strategy, however, it is often far easier to land an entry-level position than one might otherwise think. This article takes a quick look at a few basic steps you can follow in order to find work as a certified nurses aide.

Where to Look for a CNA Job

Start With the Newspaper

Yes, we all know that print media doesn't quite have the circulation and power that it once did, but when it comes to looking for a job, it's still a good place to start. Many local-level health care employers continue to use help wanted ads in the newspaper as a way to advertise job openings, so be sure to include a quick look through the local fish wrap in your daily search process.

Use the Internet

People tend to search online for almost everything these days, and jobs are no exception. While well-known sites like Craigslist and Monster do provide a wealth of information about employment opportunities around the country, using them effectively to find a CNA job near you requires a focused approach. Use specific search terms as much as possible that describe the position you require (e.g. "nursing assistant") and pare down the results from there by using local search parameters, etc.

School-Sponsored Employment Services

Assuming that you have recently graduated from an accredited training program, you are probably aware that most CNA schools offer job placement services to their students. This is often your best bet if you're looking for your first job in the nursing industry because these institutions usually have close relationships with most health care employers in their area. Not only can your school help you apply for a CNA job, but the staff and administrators can often also put in a good word for you.

A Final Word on Getting a CNA Job

Thanks to the dramatically growing need for new CNAs at virtually all of the nation's health care facilities, the current number of job openings greatly exceeds the number of available applicants in many areas. This presents a tremendous opportunity for anyone interested in breaking in to the nursing profession right now. Despite the appearance that your job search may resemble "shooting fish in a barrel", it is still important that you approach your quest with professionalism and diligence. Employers may need help, but certified nursing assistants are entrusted with a lot of responsibility, so be sure to show you can handle the position's demands while applying and interviewing for your CNA job.