The Instituto del Progreso Latino’s Basic Nursing Assistant Training Program (BNATP) offers an in-depth and practical education for students aiming to enter the healthcare field. This 11-week certification program, approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health, focuses on essential nursing skills and patient care techniques. With a mix of classroom instruction, lab practice, and clinical experiences, students gain comprehensive knowledge that prepares them to excel in a healthcare setting.
Curriculum and Class Schedule
The program provides a structured curriculum that covers a range of essential topics, including medical terminology, CPR training, financial literacy, and job readiness. Students attend reading and math classes Monday through Thursday from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm. On Fridays, they complete Microsoft Office Technology courses from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm. Additional medical terminology courses are also included, ensuring that students are well-rounded in their preparation for the workplace.
Program Format and Duration
The 11-week program runs throughout the year, offering sessions during the fall, spring, and summer. While the program does not offer online classes, its hybrid format includes hands-on training in both classroom and clinical settings. This practical experience is essential for students to apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world healthcare environments, allowing them to work directly with patients under supervision.
Admissions and Requirements
Admission to the BNATP requires applicants to have a high school diploma or GED, and they must pass a drug test and background check. Additionally, applicants must meet vaccination requirements, including titers for diseases like measles, mumps, and hepatitis B. A 9-panel drug screening is required, and the program enforces strict zero-tolerance policies regarding substance abuse. Prospective students must also meet financial aid eligibility requirements through consultations with a case manager.
Tuition and Financial Aid
The total cost of the program is $2,550, with $825 of out-of-pocket expenses potentially covered by a BNATP Educational Scholarship for qualifying students. While financial aid is available, students are expected to submit payment before classes begin. Payment plans are available for those in need, ensuring that financial hurdles don’t prevent students from pursuing their education.
Career Advancement and Job Placement
Instituto del Progreso Latino goes beyond basic certification by supporting graduates in furthering their education. The Carreras en Salud initiative offers pathways to Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) credentials and Associate’s Degrees in Nursing (ADN). Graduates of the BNATP have access to job placement services, and the program boasts a high success rate, with a 91% pass rate on the state certification exam in 2018. This makes it one of the top-ranked programs in Illinois.
With its comprehensive curriculum, hands-on training, and strong support network, Instituto del Progreso Latino’s BNATP provides an excellent foundation for a successful career in healthcare. Whether students aim to become nurse assistants or continue their education toward higher nursing credentials, this program offers the resources and guidance to help them succeed.
