Are you looking for a career that combines caring for others with the exciting world of healthcare? Look no further than becoming a CNA in St. Louis! St. Louis has a lot of jobs in healthcare, and they need more CNAs to join their team. As a CNA, you’ll get to help people with their everyday needs and make a real difference in their lives. You can work in different places like hospitals and nursing homes, and there are plenty of opportunities for you to grow.
We’ll provide you with listings of the top CNA classes in St. Louis to help you find the perfect program for you, and also provide you with the information you need to see if this is the right career path for you.
Highlights:
- There are nearly 13,000 CNA jobs in the St. Louis area.
- According to the latest Bureau of Labor and Stastics reporting, the average salary for a CNA in St. Louis has risen to $37810 per year, up from $34,000 in 2022.
- With 4 week CNA classes in St. Louis it’s possible to begin working as a CNA in a matter of weeks, not months or years.
- Some CNA training programs in St. Louis offer scholarships, sponsored training, or even free classes.
Find CNA Classes in St. Louis
Missouri CNA Requirements
There are a few different hoops you’ll need to jump through to become a CNA in Missouri. First, you’ll need to be admitted to a state-accredited CNA program. Programs have some leeway in their own requirements, but typically to be admitted to a program you’ll need to:
- Be 18+ years old (there are some exceptions here)
- Pass a background check
- Be in good physical health
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
Your state-accredited CNA program in Missouri will need to include at least:
- 75 Hours of classroom training
- 100 Hours of on-the-job training
Once you’ve passed your CNA program you’ll need to sit for the two-part CNA exam. There’s a written and skills portion of the test you’ll need to pass to earn your license and become listed on the state nurse aide registry.
Top CNA Classes Near St. Louis
If you’re looking to kickstart your career as a CNA in the St. Louis area, you’ll want to find the best possible CNA program to start your journey. With so many options out there, it can be difficult to know where to begin. To make the process easier, we’ve curated a list of the top CNA classes available in the St. Louis, Missouri area. Each program on our list has been carefully selected based on its reputation, quality of education, hands-on experience, job placement opportunities, and affordability. Whether you’re new to the healthcare industry or looking to expand your skillset, this list has something for everyone. So, let’s dive into our selection of top CNA classes near St. Louis.
Essential NA Academy
Essential NA Academy offers CNA classes through e-learning, allowing nursing facilities, administrators, and other long-term care professionals to undergo the certification process conveniently. The academy prioritizes affordability, convenience, and compliance, providing best-in-class certification courses to meet the needs of their learners.
One of the advantages of their program is its accessibility. The courses can be accessed online and hybrid from the comfort of one’s home or office, eliminating the need for physical attendance.
The CNA program lasts for seven weeks and involves five weeks of online courses followed by two weeks of in-person clinical training. This structure provides learners with the opportunity to gain practical skills and hands-on experience in a clinical setting, under the guidance of experienced instructors.
Overall, Essential NA Academy’s CNA classes are designed to offer an efficient, flexible, and effective way for long-term care professionals to obtain their certification.
Price: $675-$900
Address: 8762 St Charles Rock Rd STE 101, St. Louis, MO 63114
Phone: 314.789.8861
URL: https://www.essentialna.com/
Job Placement: No.
Additional Features: Hybrid online CNA course. Students have a 98% pass rate for the CNA exam.
St. Louis Job Corps Center **Free CNA classes in St. Louis
This free CNA program prepares students to become proficient in various aspects of patient care. The program covers a range of subject areas, including caring for patients, performing basic nursing responsibilities, controlling infections, and following safety and emergency procedures. Students are also trained in how to care for patients with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Upon completing the program, graduates can pursue full-time career opportunities that involve providing basic care for patients in hospitals or long-term care facilities like nursing homes. Job duties may include assisting patients with daily activities such as bathing and dressing, taking and recording vital signs, and turning and positioning patients. Due to the nature of the work, schedules may include nights, weekends, and holidays.
Before being accepted into the program, students must meet several requirements. This includes complying with state requirements, which may involve a criminal background check and completion of a training program that meets federal content requirements. Additionally, students must complete all the required activities in the Career Preparation Period, including Career Exploration and Career Success/Workplace Skills, meet basic academic requirements in math and reading, and register with the Missouri nurse aide registry.
Price: Free
Address: 4333 Goodfellow Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63120
Phone: 314.679.6200
URL: https://stlouis.jobcorps.gov/
Job Placement: No.
Additional Features: Additional educational and life skills courses available.
Healthcare Education LLC
Healthcare Education LLC offers a CNA course that provides individuals with the opportunity to pursue a fulfilling career in nursing. As a CNA, students will be directly involved in patient care and may be referred to as patient care technicians, nurse’s aides, or home health aides, depending on their chosen work environment.
The course is designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide excellent patient care to individuals who are unable to do so for themselves. Students will learn how to use their skills and compassion to support patients and make a positive difference in their lives.
The CNA course at Healthcare Education LLC is completed over a period of 10 weeks, at a cost of $900.00. During this time, students will receive comprehensive training that covers various aspects of patient care, including basic nursing skills, infection control, safety and emergency procedures, and communication with patients and healthcare professionals.
Overall, Healthcare Education LLC’s CNA course is an excellent opportunity for individuals who are passionate about providing compassionate care to patients in need. The course provides a solid foundation for those who wish to pursue a career in nursing and make a positive impact in their community.
Price: $900
Address: 12526 Lusher Rd, St. Louis, MO 63138
Phone: 314.653.8863
URL: https://healthcareeducationllc.com/courses-offered/
Job Placement: No.
Additional Features: Day and evening courses available.
STL Training
STL Training provides a free CNA training course that is approved by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS). This non-credit program equips individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to become a CNA in the state of Missouri and prepares them for employment in long-term, assisted living, and residential care facilities, hospitals, and home care agencies.
The program covers basic nursing skills, resident rights, safety, communication techniques, infection control, and other important topics. It is designed to meet the rigorous standards set by the Missouri DHSS and exceeds the required 75 hours of classroom training and 100 hours of on-site clinical training. The training is governed by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, and students must pass the Missouri Department of Health and Human Services’ certification test for CNAs.
The CNA program at STL Training is a 10-week course that includes both classroom instruction and supervised on-the-job training. The 100 hours of on-the-job training are in addition to the scheduled class time. Upon successful completion of the program, students are eligible to take the state examination.
To be admitted to the program, individuals must meet certain requirements. They must be 18 years or older and have a high school diploma or equivalent GED or HSET. They must also pass a negative urine drug screen, negative TB test, and background check, and have no disqualifying factors in the Family Care Safety Registry.
The cost of the program is covered by financial assistance for individuals who successfully qualify. All instructional materials for the training will be provided through funding sources. Overall, the CNA program at STL Training is an excellent opportunity for individuals who are passionate about providing high-quality care to patients in need and wish to pursue a rewarding career in healthcare.
Price: Free – must qualify for Health Professions Opportunity Grant through the MO Job Center
Address: 5959 Delmar Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63112
Phone: 314.409.7123
URL: http://www.stltraining.org/index.php/certified-nurse-assistant-cna-training
Job Placement: No.
Additional Features: All required educational materials are free.
St. Charles Community College
St. Charles Community College offers a state-approved CNA program that prepares students for employment in hospitals, nursing homes, home care agencies, and doctor’s offices. The program is approved by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) and consists of three components, including class instruction, clinical internship, and a state certification exam proctored by an outside agency.
The class instruction (CNA 100) is an online course that runs for eight weeks and costs $600. It provides 75 hours of preparation required by DHSS and covers basic nursing skills, resident rights, safety, communication techniques, and infection control. Eligible students must be at least 18 years of age and have acceptable background screening from the Missouri Family Care Safety Registry.
The clinical internship (CNA 102) costs $350 and provides 100 hours of on-the-job training required for CNA certification in Missouri. Students can register for this component during the last two weeks of class instruction and must be registered by the last day of class. Prior to beginning their clinical hours, students must complete and pass a urine drug screening, attend a clinical orientation, and provide documentation of negative 2-step TB tests, Covid-19 vaccination, and flu shot (Sept. – March).
During clinical registration, students can choose from various schedules, including five days per week, three days per week, and two days per week, with most schedules being day shifts.
Price: $950
Address: 1 Academy Pl Dardenne Prairie, MO 63368
Phone: 636.922.8284
URL: https://www.stchas.edu/academics/majors-degrees-certificates/Certified-Nurse-Assistant
Job Placement: No.
Additional Features: Students working at state of Missouri approved training sites can skip the clinical internship portion of the coursework and instead complete that training with their employer, which saves $350.
Aspire Healthcare Solutions **Hybrid online CNA classes
Aspire Healthcare Solutions offers a CNA program for individuals seeking a career change or pursuing a career in nursing. The program is available in St. Louis and provides both day and evening options that last for 12 or 16 weeks, with two days of classes per week. Additionally, Aspire Healthcare Solutions now offers a 10-week hybrid CNA class that involves 75 hours of online training, 100 hours of competency/skills training, six weeks of online training, one week of skills training in a classroom setting, and six weeks of clinical training.
These CNA classes are designed to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to provide basic care services to patients in long-term care facilities, home health agencies, and some hospitals. After completion, students are eligible to take the final exam and become certified nursing assistants, enabling them to work under the supervision of registered nurses or licensed practical nurses in assisting in direct patient care.
Price: $1,275 – does not include the cost of supplies or state exam fees.
Address: 3391 N Hwy 67, Florissant, MO 63033
Phone: 314.736.1146
URL: https://www.aspirehealth1.com/courses-offered-schedule.html
Job Placement: No.
Additional Features: Payment programs are available.
Lutheran Senior Services
Lutheran Senior Services (LSS) offers Nursing Assistant in Training (NAT) program for individuals who want to become CNAs at LSS communities. The program provides hourly wages and covers the cost of schooling to receive CNA certification. The classroom instruction and clinical training are conducted through the CNA Training Academy, which is supported by LSS and the Senior Care Network. The course is fast-paced and intense, led by experienced instructors who prepare the students for tests through quizzes and studying guidance.
CNAs learn to work together, and the program provides a balanced mix of classroom learning and hands-on training. LSS employees who complete the program can receive tuition assistance towards earning their Certified Medication Technician and Nursing degrees. Many CNAs see this as the first step in their healthcare career path.
LSS not only provides a fulfilling work opportunity but also the support of an organization that encourages career growth. Visit the LSS Job Opportunities page to learn more about becoming a Nursing Assistant in Training.
Price: Contact LSS for current costs.
Address: 723 S Laclede Station Rd, St. Louis, MO 63119
Phone: 314.446.2343
URL: https://www.lssliving.org/news/train-for-a-caring-career/
Job Placement: Yes.
Additional Features: Tuition assistance is available for qualified applicants.
Beyond EDU
Beyond EDU’s CNA Training Program equips students with the skills required for entry-level CNA positions in long-term care facilities and hospitals. The curriculum focuses on providing basic nursing care to patients, including effective communication with patients and their families based on their psychosocial needs. Students will also learn how to assist patients in attaining and maintaining maximum functional independence, protect and support their rights, and apply safety and preventative measures in their care.
The program emphasizes the importance of functioning as an integral member of the healthcare team and how the skills and observations of CNAs contribute to the overall healthcare system. To reserve a seat in the program, a $100 deposit is required, and the remaining balance must be paid in full before clinicals.
Beyond EDU offers guaranteed job placement and training services, with placement coordinators available to provide counseling and guidance on resume writing and interview skills.
Price: $200
Address: 12328 Natural Bridge Rd, Bridgeton, MO 63044
Phone: 314.361.2747
URL: https://www.beyond-edu.org/service-page/cna-certified-nursing-assistant-2
Job Placement: Yes.
Additional Features: Grant-funded tuition is available for qualified students.
How much do CNA classes cost in St. Louis?
Depending on the program you choose, your CNA course in St. Louis can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars to around $1,500. That said, if you took an average of the local program costs, you’d find that it’s usually around $900.
What’s the salary for CNAs in St. Louis?
CNAs in the St. Louis area make an average of $37,810 per year or $18.18 per hour. This is 3.88% more than the state average of Missouri which is $36,350.
Where do CNAs work in St. Louis?
As a CNA you’ll find there are a lot of different employers looking to add your skills. In St. Louis, the following industries are the top employers for CNAs.
| Employer | St. Louis CNAs Employed |
|---|---|
| Nursing Care Facilities (Skilled Nursing Facilities) | 5,049 |
| General Medical and Surgical Hospitals | 4,142 |
| Continuing Care Retirement Communities and Assisted Living Facilities for the Elderly | 1,509 |
| Home Health Care Services | 895 |
| Employment Services | 417 |
| Individual and Family Services | 388 |
| Specialty (except Psychiatric and Substance Abuse) Hospitals | 280 |
| Local Government, excluding schools and hospitals (OES Designation) | 278 |
| Offices of Physicians | 187 |
| Federal Executive Branch (OES Designation) | 172 |
| State Government, excluding schools and hospitals (OES Designation) | 152 |
| Residential Intellectual and Developmental Disability, Mental Health, and Substance Abuse Facilities | 127 |
| Outpatient Care Centers | 127 |
Helpful links for St. Louis CNAs
Making a career change or choosing a career path is a big decision. If you want more information about CNA pay or just want to learn more about the process of becoming a CNA in St. Louis or Missouri in general, the links below may prove helpful.