CNA Classes in Anchorage, Alaska

Anchorage CNA Training - Alaska

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 Anchorage, Alaska

About Anchorage

Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city, is a vibrant hub nestled between the Chugach Mountains and the Cook Inlet. Known for its stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife, Anchorage offers a unique blend of urban amenities and outdoor adventures. The city boasts numerous landmarks such as the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, the Anchorage Museum, and the Alaska Native Heritage Center. For more information about Anchorage, visit the official city website.

CNA Training Programs in Anchorage, Alaska

If you’re looking to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Anchorage, there are several reputable programs to choose from:

1. University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA)
   • Description: UAA offers a comprehensive Nursing Assistant program that prepares students for the CNA certification exam. The program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience.
   • Location: UAA Campus, Midtown
   • Program Link: UAA Nursing Assistant Program
2. Alaska Career College
   • Description: Alaska Career College provides a well-rounded CNA program that focuses on patient care skills and professional development. Graduates are well-prepared for immediate employment in healthcare settings.
   • Location: Midtown
   • Program Link: Alaska Career College Nursing Assistant Program
3. Charter College
   • Description: Charter College offers a Nursing Assistant program designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge for a successful career as a CNA. The curriculum includes both theoretical and practical training.
   • Location: North Anchorage
   • Program Link: Charter College Nursing Assistant Program

CNA Employment Opportunities in Anchorage

Anchorage is home to several major healthcare facilities and nursing homes where CNAs can find employment opportunities:

1. Providence Alaska Medical Center
   • Description: As the largest hospital in Alaska, Providence Alaska Medical Center offers a wide range of healthcare services and employs a large number of CNAs.
   • Location: University-Medical District
   • Employment Opportunities: Providence Alaska Medical Center Careers
2. Alaska Regional Hospital
   • Description: This full-service hospital provides comprehensive medical care and is a significant employer of nursing assistants in Anchorage.
   • Location: North Star
   • Employment Opportunities: Alaska Regional Hospital Careers
3. Anchorage Pioneer Home
   • Description: A state-operated assisted living facility that offers long-term care services for Alaskan seniors, providing numerous opportunities for CNAs.
   • Location: Downtown
   • Employment Opportunities: Anchorage Pioneer Home Careers

CNA Certification Requirements in Alaska

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

1. Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program: This includes both classroom and clinical training.
2. Pass the Competency Exam: You must pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam.
3. Background Check: Submit to a criminal background check.
4. State Registration: Apply for certification through the Alaska Board of Nursing.

For more detailed information, visit the Alaska Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant in Anchorage, Alaska, is a rewarding decision. With a variety of excellent CNA training programs and abundant employment opportunities, you are well on your way to a fulfilling career in healthcare. Contact a local school today to begin your journey toward becoming a CNA.

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 Alaska 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 Anchorage?

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 Anchorage 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 Anchorage 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 Anchorage?

Many schools that offer CNA training have new sessions beginning every 6 to 8 weeks. In many areas in Alaska, you can find CNA training starting in December 2024, January 2025, February 2025, or March 2025 available for registration now. Unlike nursing programs in Alaska, 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 Anchorage is a great way to quickly gain experience in the medical field. Also check out Alaska CNA Salary info.