Becoming a certified nursing assistant (CNA) in Indianapolis requires meeting a number of requirements set by the state of Indiana. These include completing an accredited CNA training program, passing a criminal background check, and passing a competency exam. Finding the right CNA program can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available in the Indianapolis area. That’s why we’ve created this list of the best CNA classes in Indianapolis to make the process of finding the right program easier for aspiring CNAs.
All the CNA programs on our list are accredited by the state of Indiana, which means they meet the necessary standards for training and education. These programs offer a comprehensive curriculum that covers a wide range of topics, including patient care, safety, and communication. They also provide students with hands-on training through clinical experiences, allowing them to apply the skills and knowledge they’ve learned in a real-world setting.
Highlights
- There are over 9,400 CNAs currently working in the Indy metro area
- According to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics May 2024 data, the top-earning CNAs in Indianapolis can make $37,500 per year or more
- An Indianapolis CNA certification can be earned in as little as 105 hours, meaning you can go from beginning your CNA class to working as a CNA in Indianapolis in as little as a month
CNA Requirements in Indianapolis
Indiana’s state requirements dictate that CNAs must complete a minimum of 105 total hours of education at a state-certified CNA program before they can take the state exam and earn their license. These hours consist of 30 hours of classroom training and 75 hours of practical clinical training.
Additionally, you will typically need to meet the following standards as well to qualify to work as a CNA:
- 18+ years of age (though some programs may allow you to start as early as 16)
- Ability to pass a physical and have up-to-date immunization records
- Complete criminal background check
- Pass the state CNA exam
- Get listed on the Indiana state CNA registry
Top 10 CNA Classes Near Indianapolis
Looking to become a CNA? Check out our list of the top ten CNA classes near you in the Indianapolis area, selected for reputation, accreditation, and student satisfaction. Whether you’re a first-time student or seeking additional education, these programs offer a range of options to suit your needs.
Best CNA Program in Indianapolis
Indiana School of Certified Nursing Assistants
Discover the path to a rewarding career in healthcare with the Indiana School of Certified Nursing Assistants. The school’s goal is to educate students to become highly skilled nurse’s aides who will serve their communities in hospitals, home health agencies, nursing homes, and other avenues of compassionate care.
The school is committed to upholding the values of dedication, quality, and kindness. Their dedicated staff will work tirelessly to ensure our program graduates provide the highest level of care and make a positive difference in the lives of their patients. Through continual communication and proper training, ISCNA’s graduates will always be equipped to provide the best possible care.
The program believes that kindness, respect, and gratitude are just as important to a person’s well-being as the care they are to provide. That’s why the training program is designed to provide students with the mindset that will make them the best caregiver they can be.
The program can be completed in only 15 days and will cover everything you’ll need to know to work as a CNA, from infection control to charting to proper communication skills.
Price: $2,000 (does not include $300 registration fee)
Address: 745 Beachway Drive Suite A
Indianapolis, IN 46224
Phone: 317.694.2695
URL: https://www.indycnas.com/
Job Placement: Yes
Additional Features: Simulation lab available for working on critical CNA skills.
Best Accelerated and 4-Week CNA Classes in Indianapolis
Faith Healthcare Training Center
Faith Healthcare Training Center’s mission is to educate and prepare competent, culturally sensitive, and respectful caretakers for the aging population and people of all ages in various healthcare settings. They achieve this by providing quality hands-on training by experienced healthcare professionals, and a supportive and friendly learning environment.
FHTC’s instructors are licensed professionals with 40+ years of combined clinical and educational experience as nurses in a variety of healthcare settings. They keep class sizes small to provide individualized attention and enhance the learning experience.
FHTC is conveniently located near the intersection of Emerson Avenue and 56th Street, with ample parking and a handicap accessible building. The program is completed in 5 weeks, allowing students to enter the workforce in a short period of time. And the program offers competitive pricing, along with various payment options, making the program affordable for everyone.
Price: $1,165
Address: 5435 Emerson Way #225
Indianapolis, Indiana 46226
Phone: 317.672.3374
URL: https://faithhtc.com/
Job Placement: No
Additional Features: Curriculum built toward career prep and success on the state exam.
Low-Cost CNA Classes in Indianapolis
DaySpring Career Institute
Discover the path to a fulfilling career in healthcare with DaySpring Career Institute. Their Certified Nursing Assistant program is designed to open doors for individuals looking to become professional caregivers. DaySpring’s well-trained graduates can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private homes.
This program meets the requirements set by the Indiana State Department of Health, including completion of a state-approved training program, passing the competency evaluation, and being listed in good standing on the Indiana Nurse Aide Registry.
The comprehensive curriculum covers key topics such as understanding medical terminology, administrative and clinical duties, patient scheduling, and basic vital signs monitoring. With DaySpring Career Institute, you’ll gain the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as a CNA and make a real difference in the lives of those in need of care.
DaySpring’s courses take four weeks to complete.
Price: $1,000
Address: 4265 Lafayette Rd
Indianapolis IN, 46254
Phone: 317.641.2713
URL: http://dayspring.dayspringanddaystar.com/
Job Placement: No
Additional Features: Comprehensive exam preparation is offered.
Free CNA Classes in Indianapolis
Miller’s Merry Manor
Miller’s offers an unparalleled Nurse Aide training program that exceeds the standards set by the Indiana State Department of Health. With 36-40 hours of classroom instruction, students learn the essential skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the field. The program is designed to ensure that all students pass the necessary tests and successfully complete the classroom work before moving on to the hands-on clinical practicum.
During the 75 hours of supervised practicum, students work in a long-term care facility and have the opportunity to put their new skills into practice. With the guidance of a dedicated preceptor, students learn how to provide top-quality care to residents while honing their organizational and time management skills. This clinical experience allows students to work alongside experienced staff members, preparing them for a successful career in the field. By joining Miller’s, students take the first step towards a rewarding career as a Nurse Aide.
Price: Free
Address: Multiple locations throughout Indiana
Phone: 574.267.7211
URL: http://millersmerrymanor.com/careers/bna-cna-training
Job Placement: Yes
Additional Features: Hire their own graduates, job openings can be found on their website.
Online CNA Classes in Indianapolis
The ATATJ’ Institute
The ATATJ’ Institute offers a 6-week Nurse Aide training program that includes 30 hours of classroom/lab and 75 hours of on-site clinicals. Upon successful completion of all course requirements, students are able to take their skills and written test administered by Ivy Tech Community College. After passing both the written and skills parts of the test, students will be placed on the Indiana Nurse Aide Registry.
The cost of the program is $950.00 for in-person and $1,050 for online. There is a mandatory non-refundable fee of $100 due at the time of registration, which is deducted from the total cost of the class.
Class times and days vary from session to session, but typically class will be held Tuesday-Thursday from 8:30am to 1:00pm for the first three weeks. Hybrid students work at their own pace online through the classroom portion of weeks 1-3 but are required to come in weekly for skills check-offs and attend clinical sessions.
Price: $950 for in-person classes, $1,050 for online
Address: 7098 N. Shadeland Ave Suite G
Indianapolis, IN 46220
Phone: 317.516.8152
URL: https://www.facebook.com/sadieCNAacademy/
Job Placement: No
Additional Features: Offers hybrid online CNA courses and flexible payment options.
More Top CNA Programs in Indianapolis
The above schools have a lot to offer, but they’re not the only top-notch schools available in the Indianapolis metro area.
Legacy CNA Training
Legacy CNA Training in Indianapolis offers a unique opportunity for students looking to jumpstart their career in healthcare. With a focus on employment opportunities, Legacy invites employers to come to the classroom to present the current job openings in the community. Additionally, job postings specifically targeting the need for CNAs are shared with students. With the high demand for CNAs in the healthcare industry, students can expect to be in high demand upon graduation.
The accelerated 3-week training course allows students to find employment sooner than other programs that can take up to 6 months or even a year. To ensure students are prepared for the state test, Legacy offers a comprehensive review session the day before the exam.
Legacy understands the importance of a flexible class schedule and offers a variety of options to fit each student’s unique life schedule. The instructors at Legacy boast an impressive 99% pass rate, with over 126 years of combined experience in the healthcare industry.
Tuition reimbursement is also available for those who qualify, making the investment in a fulfilling career in healthcare even more accessible. Contact Legacy today to learn more about the opportunities and benefits available to students.
Price: $1,300 – though tuition reimbursement is available for qualifying students.
Address: 598 West Carmel Drive, Suite F
Carmel, IN 46032
Phone: 317.993.3577
URL: https://www.legacycnatraining.com/
Job Placement: Yes
Additional Features: 99+% pass rate on state CNA exam.
Star Training
Star Training in Indianapolis, Indiana offers a comprehensive CNA program that prepares students for a successful career in healthcare. The program is designed to provide hands-on training in a real-world setting, giving students the opportunity to gain the skills and knowledge necessary to excel as a Certified Nursing Assistant.
One of the key benefits of the program is the flexible class schedule, which allows students to work around their busy lives. Whether you are a working professional, a stay-at-home parent, or a student, Star Training has a schedule that will fit your needs.
The program is led by experienced registered nurses who have a proven track record of success and experience working in long-term care, rehab, and acute care settings.
Price: $1,200
Address: 699 E 71st St Ste 2B
Indianapolis, IN 46220
Phone: 317.406.6054
URL: https://www.startrainingindy.com/
Job Placement: No
Additional Features: 5 or 6-week course options are available.
RESQ Health & Safety Training
RESQ Health & Safety Training in Indianapolis offers a comprehensive CNA program that is approved by the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH). The program follows the ISDH Nurse Aide Curriculum, providing students with a thorough education in the classroom, hands-on lab, and clinical experiences.
The program is designed to prepare individuals for an entry-level position as a CNA in the healthcare industry, including hospitals, assisted living facilities, long-term care facilities, hospice care, and home health care. With a strong focus on hands-on training and real-world experience, students will be well-prepared for their ISDH CNA state exam upon successful completion of the program.
The instructors at RESQ have a wealth of experience in the healthcare industry and are dedicated to providing students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed as a CNA. The program also offers job placement assistance to help graduates find fulfilling career opportunities in healthcare.
Price: $1,250 and covers all costs including study materials, scrubs, background check, testing fee, TB test, and physical
Address: 5142 Madison Ave Suite 4
Indianapolis, IN
Phone: 317.786.7260
URL: https://www.resqtraining.com/
Job Placement: No
Additional Features: Authorized training site recognized by the American Heart Association
Indy’s Healthcare Training Center
Indy’s Health Care Training Center is committed to educating the healthcare industry’s future professional, caring, and compassionate Healthcare HERO’s! Their goal is to improve the quality of care for patients.
Why choose Indy’s Health Care Training Center? They ensure that students have the knowledge, skills, and confidence to start their new careers. They offer flexible classes and simplified learning for all individuals looking to start a career in the healthcare industry. Upon successful completion of the program, they place students with one of their employer partners for full-time employment, allowing students to enter the workforce right away! The program can be completed in just 4 weeks!
To qualify for the program, students must be at least 16 years old, able to add and subtract simple equations, able to read and write English, have a high school diploma or GED (preferred), have a COVID-19 vaccination or exemption on file, be able to pass a background check, and provide a 2 step TB skin test.
The class schedule runs on a 4-week schedule, which includes 30 lecture/lab hours and 75 clinical hours, for a total of 105 hours. The sample schedule is the schedule on which classes are run unless there is a holiday.
Price: $550
Address: 120 E Market Street
Indianapolis, IN 46204 Suite 370
Phone: 317.296.4985
URL: https://indyshealthcaretrainingcenter.com/
Job Placement: No
Additional Features: Also offers certifications in First Aid, AED, and CPR with group rates available.
Ready to Care Healthcare Training
Ready to Care Healthcare Training offers an Indiana State approved and accredited Nurse Aide Training Program through the Indiana State Department of Health Division of Health Care Education and Quality. They offer five-week day and evening programs.
During the program, students will receive 30 hours of classroom training and 75 hours of hands-on training during weekend clinicals in an assisted living facility and/or long-term care/skilled nursing environment. Each student will receive study materials, one scrub uniform, one gait belt, physical and two-step ppd (tuberculosis) test.
This program prepares students to take the state exam to become a Certified Nurse Aide.
Price: $1,125
Address: 1311 Shadeland Ave Suite D
Indianapolis, IN 46219
Phone: 317.625.2587
URL: https://www.readytocarellc.com/
Job Placement: No
Additional Features: Each instructor has been certified through the Indiana University School of Nursing Center for Professional Development and Lifelong Learning.
How Much Do CNAs Get Paid in Indianapolis?
As reported by the May of 2024 Bureau of Labor and Statistics report – with an average salary of $38,580 per year, or $15.05 per hour, you can earn a competitive wage working as a CNA in Indianapolis while making a difference in the lives of others. While the average salary in Indianapolis is 2.6% less than the national average for CNAs, the potential earning potential ranges from $ 32,610 up to $46,130. depending on experience. A career as a CNA offers not only financial stability but also the satisfaction of providing vital care to those in need.
How Much Do CNA Courses Cost in Indianapolis?
The price range of tuition for CNA classes in Indianapolis is pretty broad. On the low end, you can find some programs as low as $500 while others can go as high as $1,500. Most will fall around $1,000 or slightly above that. However, some schools offer scholarships and financial aid, so you may want to look into that while you’re doing research on the best CNA program for you.
Job Opportunities for CNAs in Indianapolis
Over 30% of the CNAs in the state of Indiana are employed in the Indianapolis area, with a total of 9,590 working as nursing assistants in the Indy metro. Where do all of these people work? Here are the top employers, which should give you an idea of where you can find work after you’ve earned your CNA license to work in Indiana.
| Industry Type | Total Employment |
|---|---|
| Nursing Care Facilities (Skilled Nursing Facilities) | 3,437 |
| General Medical and Surgical Hospitals | 2,819 |
| Continuing Care Retirement Communities and Assisted Living Facilities for the Elderly | 1,027 |
| Home Health Care Services | 609 |
| Employment Services | 284 |
| Individual and Family Services | 264 |
| Specialty (except Psychiatric and Substance Abuse) Hospitals | 190 |
| Local Government, excluding schools and hospitals (OES Designation) | 189 |
| Offices of Physicians | 127 |
| Federal Executive Branch (OES Designation) | 117 |
| State Government, excluding schools and hospitals (OES Designation) | 103 |
Helpful Links
If you’re still researching the right CNA class in the Indianapolis area, you may also want to learn more about the profession and what it takes to earn your certification. Also, it can be helpful to learn about your career options once you’ve become a CNA. The links below may prove helpful in your research.