CNA Classes in Dubuque, Iowa

Dubuque CNA Training - Iowa

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 Dubuque, Iowa

If you’re considering a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Dubuque, Iowa, you’re in the right place. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to start your journey. From local CNA training programs to employment opportunities and state certification requirements, we’ve got you covered.

About Dubuque

Dubuque, located along the Mississippi River, is known for its rich history and vibrant community. With landmarks such as the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium and the historic Dubuque Shot Tower, this city offers a unique blend of cultural and recreational activities. For more information about Dubuque, visit the official city website.

CNA Training Programs in Dubuque, Iowa

Here are three local schools offering Nursing Assistant programs in Dubuque:

1. Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC)
   • Location: Peosta Campus, Dubuque, IA
   • Program Description: NICC offers a comprehensive CNA program that includes classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. The program prepares students for the state certification exam and entry-level employment in healthcare settings.
   • Program Page: NICC CNA Program
2. Hawkeye Community College
   • Location: Waterloo, IA (approximately 1.5 hours from Dubuque)
   • Program Description: Hawkeye Community College provides a CNA course that covers essential nursing skills, patient care, and safety procedures. The program includes both theoretical and practical training.
   • Program Page: Hawkeye CNA Program
3. Kirkwood Community College
   • Location: Cedar Rapids, IA (approximately 1 hour from Dubuque)
   • Program Description: Kirkwood Community College offers a Nursing Assistant program designed to equip students with the skills needed to excel in various healthcare environments. The course includes classroom learning and clinical practice.
   • Program Page: Kirkwood CNA Program

CNA Employment Opportunities in Dubuque

Dubuque is home to several healthcare facilities and nursing homes that frequently hire CNAs:

1. MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center
   • Location: Downtown Dubuque
   • Description: MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center is a leading healthcare provider in the region, offering a wide range of medical services. They frequently have openings for CNAs.
   • Employment Page: MercyOne Careers
2. UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital
   • Location: Downtown Dubuque
   • Description: UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital is known for its patient-centered care and advanced medical facilities. The hospital regularly seeks qualified CNAs.
   • Employment Page: UnityPoint Careers
3. Stonehill Communities
   • Location: West End Neighborhood
   • Description: Stonehill Communities is a senior living and rehabilitation center that provides excellent care to its residents. They offer numerous opportunities for CNAs to join their team.
   • Employment Page: Stonehill Careers

CNA Certification Requirements in Iowa

To become a certified nursing assistant in Iowa, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program: Ensure that the program you choose is approved by the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals (DIA).
2. Pass the Competency Exam: After completing your training, you must pass the state competency exam, which includes both a written test and a skills evaluation.
3. Register with the Iowa Direct Care Worker Registry: Once you pass the exam, you need to register with the Iowa Direct Care Worker Registry to be officially recognized as a CNA.

For more details, visit the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals and the Iowa Direct Care Worker Registry.

Get Started Today

Becoming a CNA in Dubuque, Iowa, is a rewarding career choice with numerous opportunities for growth and fulfillment. Take the first step by enrolling in a local CNA program and start making a difference in the lives of others. Contact a school today to learn more about their nursing assistant courses and begin your journey toward a fulfilling healthcare 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 Iowa 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 Dubuque?

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 Dubuque 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 Dubuque 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 Dubuque?

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