CNA Classes in Melrose, Minnesota

Melrose CNA Training - Minnesota

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 Melrose, MN

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Melrose, MN? CNAs, also known as nurse aides or nursing assistants, play a vital role in healthcare by providing essential care to patients in hospitals, nursing homes, and other medical facilities. If you’re ready to start your journey, this guide will help you understand the process, explore local CNA training programs, and learn about employment opportunities in the Melrose area.

About Melrose, MN

Nestled in Stearns County, Melrose, MN, is a charming small town with a welcoming community and a rich history. Known for its scenic parks, such as Sauk River Park, and its close-knit neighborhoods, Melrose offers a peaceful environment for both residents and visitors. For more information about the city, visit the official City of Melrose website.

CNA Training Programs in Melrose, MN

If you’re looking to become a CNA in Melrose, you’ll need to complete a state-approved training program. While there may not be CNA programs directly in Melrose, there are excellent options in nearby cities. Here are three programs to consider:

1. Alexandria Technical & Community College
   • Location: Alexandria, MN (Approximately 30 miles from Melrose)
   • Program Overview: Alexandria Technical & Community College offers a Nursing Assistant course that prepares students for the Minnesota Nurse Aide Registry exam. The program includes classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience.
   • Visit their Nursing Assistant Program page.
2. St. Cloud Technical & Community College (SCTCC)
   • Location: St. Cloud, MN (Approximately 35 miles from Melrose)
   • Program Overview: SCTCC provides a Nursing Assistant program designed to meet Minnesota’s certification requirements. The program emphasizes practical skills and compassionate patient care.
   • Learn more about the program here.
3. Central Lakes College
   • Location: Staples, MN (Approximately 40 miles from Melrose)
   • Program Overview: Central Lakes College offers a comprehensive Nursing Assistant course that includes both classroom learning and clinical practice, ensuring students are well-prepared for the certification exam.
   • Explore their Nursing Assistant program.

CNA Employment Opportunities in Melrose

Melrose and the surrounding areas have several healthcare facilities and nursing homes where CNAs are in high demand. Here are some key employers:

1. CentraCare – Melrose Hospital
   • Location: Melrose, MN
   • Overview: CentraCare – Melrose Hospital is a critical access hospital offering a range of healthcare services, including long-term care. It is a great place for CNAs to gain experience in a supportive environment.
   • Explore career opportunities at CentraCare.
2. Pine Villa Care Center
   • Location: Melrose, MN
   • Overview: Pine Villa Care Center is a skilled nursing facility that provides compassionate care for elderly residents. CNAs play a crucial role in delivering daily care and assistance to residents.
   • Visit Pine Villa Care Center’s website.
3. Mother of Mercy Senior Living
   • Location: Albany, MN (Approximately 10 miles from Melrose)
   • Overview: Located just a short drive from Melrose, Mother of Mercy Senior Living offers a variety of senior care services, including assisted living and skilled nursing. This facility is a great option for CNAs seeking employment close to home.
   • Learn more about Mother of Mercy Senior Living.

CNA Certification Requirements in Minnesota

To become a CNA in Minnesota, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program: Enroll in and successfully complete a program that meets the standards set by the Minnesota Department of Health.
2. Pass the Competency Exam: After completing your training, you must pass the Minnesota Nursing Assistant Competency Exam to be listed on the Minnesota Nurse Aide Registry.
3. Background Check: Undergo and pass a criminal background check as part of the certification process.

For more information, visit the Minnesota Department of Health’s Nurse Aide Registry page.

Get Started Today

Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Melrose, MN, is an excellent way to start a fulfilling healthcare career. With local training programs and abundant employment opportunities, there’s never been a better time to take the first step. Contact one of the schools listed above to learn more about their CNA programs and begin your journey toward making a difference in the lives of others.

For information about the job outlook for nursing assistants, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics Nursing Assistants page.

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 Minnesota 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 Melrose?

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 Melrose 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 Melrose 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 Melrose?

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