Edmonds College offers a robust Nursing Assistant program tailored to prepare students for rewarding careers in the healthcare sector. Located in Lynnwood, Washington, near Seattle, this program combines comprehensive training, hands-on clinical experience, and advanced options like acute care certification, making it ideal for students seeking thorough preparation and career versatility.
Program Overview and Structure
The Nursing Assistant program at Edmonds College spans one quarter, incorporating both academic and practical learning. Students enroll in courses such as Certified Nursing Assistant Lecture, Lab, and Clinical Externship. These courses cover fundamental patient care skills and clinical techniques required in medical environments. Students can advance their qualifications further by completing the Acute Care Nursing Assistant Certificate, which provides specialized skills for settings such as hospitals and sub-acute facilities.
Each quarter, students must complete NURS 101, NURS 102, and NURS 103, which focus on key aspects of nursing assistance, including patient hygiene, feeding, vital signs monitoring, and bed-making. This sequence prepares students to take the Washington State certification exam, leading to certification by the Department of Health.
Course Schedule and Duration
This program is designed for completion within a single quarter, provided students meet the prerequisite requirements. While specific start dates are flexible, students should consult the advising team to ensure they meet enrollment criteria and have completed required prerequisite courses. Each weekly schedule balances lecture, lab, and clinical externship hours, allowing students to develop hands-on expertise. Classes are conducted in person, supporting skill acquisition through live demonstrations and supervised practice, with no online classes currently available.
Cost and Financial Aid
Tuition for the Nursing Assistant program totals approximately $1,155, with additional fees of $92 and $380, bringing the overall program cost to $1,627. Edmonds College offers several financial aid options, including scholarships and grants for eligible students, which can offset program expenses. Prospective students should contact the Financial Aid office for guidance on completing FAFSA forms and applying for program-specific scholarships. At present, there is no free tuition option exclusively for nursing assistant students, but general financial assistance options are available.
Acute Care Nursing Assistant Certificate
Edmonds College's Acute Care Nursing Assistant Certificate builds upon the standard certification, providing additional skills for acute and hospital-based care. This extension includes specialized training in wound care, glucose monitoring, and point-of-care testing, with clinical rotations in medical and surgical units. This certification offers graduates an advantage when seeking positions in fast-paced healthcare environments and opens pathways for career advancement.
Accreditations and Instructor Expertise
Edmonds College is accredited by the Washington State Department of Health, ensuring that the Nursing Assistant program meets the highest educational standards. Instructors bring years of experience from diverse healthcare settings, combining practical knowledge with a commitment to student success. With experience in both nursing and teaching, instructors are equipped to guide students through hands-on skills, patient interaction, and workplace readiness. Students can expect a well-supported learning environment with direct access to faculty advisors for career planning.
Career Services and Job Placement Support
While Edmonds College does not offer formal job placement services for nursing assistant graduates, students have access to the college's career services center, which provides resume assistance, interview preparation, and job search resources. Many students find employment opportunities through clinical externships, where they gain exposure to potential employers. Additionally, Edmonds' strong reputation within Washington healthcare networks supports students in their job search post-graduation.
In summary, Edmonds College offers an intensive, hands-on Nursing Assistant program designed for swift entry into the healthcare field. With options for acute care certification, financial aid support, and guidance from experienced faculty, the program stands out as a comprehensive choice for those seeking practical skills and career readiness in nursing assistance.
