CNA Classes in Waukegan, Illinois

Waukegan 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 Waukegan, Illinois

About Waukegan

Waukegan, Illinois, is a vibrant city located along the western shore of Lake Michigan. Known for its rich history, diverse community, and scenic beauty, Waukegan offers a unique blend of urban and suburban living. The city boasts several cultural landmarks, including the Genesee Theatre and the Waukegan Harbor. For more information about Waukegan, visit the official city website.

CNA Training Programs in Waukegan, Illinois

If you’re looking to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Waukegan, Illinois, you’ll find several local schools offering reputable nursing assistant programs. Here are three options to consider:

1. College of Lake County
   • Location: Grayslake, IL (approximately 10 miles from Waukegan)
   • Program Overview: The College of Lake County offers a comprehensive CNA program that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. The program is designed to prepare students for the Illinois Nurse Aide Competency Exam.
   • More Information: Visit the College of Lake County Nursing Assistant Program page.
2. Gateway Technical College
   • Location: Kenosha, WI (approximately 15 miles from Waukegan)
   • Program Overview: Gateway Technical College provides a CNA program that equips students with the skills needed for entry-level nursing assistant positions. The program includes coursework in patient care, safety, and communication.
   • More Information: Visit the Gateway Technical College Nursing Assistant Program page.
3. Chicago Community Learning Center
   • Location: Chicago, IL (approximately 40 miles from Waukegan)
   • Program Overview: The Chicago Community Learning Center offers a state-approved CNA training program that prepares students for certification and employment in various healthcare settings.
   • More Information: Visit the Chicago Community Learning Center Nursing Assistant Program page.

CNA Employment Opportunities in Waukegan

Waukegan is home to several healthcare facilities and nursing homes that offer employment opportunities for CNAs. Here are some major employers in the area:

1. Vista Health System
   • Location: Central Waukegan
   • Overview: Vista Health System is a comprehensive healthcare provider offering a range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and rehabilitation. They regularly hire CNAs to support their patient care teams.
   • More Information: Visit the Vista Health System Careers page.
2. Lake Behavioral Hospital
   • Location: South Waukegan
   • Overview: Specializing in mental health services, Lake Behavioral Hospital employs CNAs to help with patient care and support within their behavioral health programs.
   • More Information: Visit the Lake Behavioral Hospital Careers page.
3. Waukegan Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center
   • Location: North Waukegan
   • Overview: This facility provides long-term care and rehabilitation services. They seek dedicated CNAs to assist with daily patient care and support.
   • More Information: Visit the Waukegan Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center Careers page.

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 CNA training program approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH).
2. Pass the Competency Exam: Successfully pass the Illinois Nurse Aide Competency Exam, which includes both a written and a skills test.
3. Background Check: Undergo a criminal background check as part of the certification process.

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

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a CNA in Waukegan, Illinois, is a rewarding decision that can lead to numerous opportunities in the healthcare field. Reach out to one of the local schools offering CNA programs and take the first step toward your new career today!

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 Waukegan?

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 Waukegan 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 Waukegan 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 Waukegan?

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 December 2024, January 2025, February 2025, or March 2025 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 Waukegan is a great way to quickly gain experience in the medical field. Also check out Illinois CNA Salary info.