CNA Classes in Denver

Become a Certified Nursing Assistant and make a difference in patients’ lives by providing essential care in medical settings. CNAs are in high demand in Colorado, offering fulfilling careers and plenty of job opportunities. Explore top CNA classes near you in Denver with flexible schedules to start your healthcare career.

Highlights

  1. Denver is one of the top areas in the country for CNA pay. The average pay for the Denver, Aurora, Lakewood metro area is more than 9% higher than the national average.
  2. There are more than 10,000 CNAs in the Denver area which means lots of job opportunities for certified nurse aides.
  3. Fast track accelerated courses allow you to become a CNA in four weeks, sometimes less.
  4. Free CNA classes are offered by some employers who will pay your tuition in exchange for agreeing to work at their facility.


CNA Requirements in Denver

Candidates must complete a minimum of 75 hours of state-approved education. This includes a minimum of 59 hours of classroom learning and 16 hours of clinical education. Once classes are completed, candidates will have to schedule their exam through Credentia and pass it to earn their certification.

Additional requirements for being a certified CNA in Colorado include:

  • Be in good physical health
  • Pass a background check
  • Pass the Colorado CNA licensing exam
  • Get listed on Colorado’s nurse aide registry

Top CNA Classes in Denver

Researching the best local CNA programs in Denver can be a bit of a headache. We know this, and that’s why we did the heavy lifting for you. Check out our curated list of the best schools in the area to find the one that works best for you.

1. South Denver School of Nursing Arts **Hybrid Online CNA Classes in Denver

The South Denver School of Nursing Arts offers an innovative CNA Certification program for students seeking a career in the healthcare field. The 4-week online program is accessible and convenient, with hands-on training elements to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary for success.

With a proven track record of success, the school consistently ranks in the 90th percentile among 25 independent CNA Certification schools in Colorado. The passionate and dedicated nurse instructors are dedicated to the success of each student, offering one-on-one support and mentorship.

The program is primarily virtual, ensuring the safety and comfort of students. The program includes a supply pack for at-home skills lab setup, 22 skills demonstrations, and in-person clinicals at a local long-term care facility. It is designed to serve the rural areas of Colorado, making it the first of its kind.

Price: $1,600 ($1,400 for high school students)
Address: 7853 E. Arapahoe Court, Suite 3300
Centennial, CO 80112
Phone: 303.529.2843
URL: https://southdenverschoolofnursingarts.com/
Job Placement: Yes
Additional Features: Tuition sponsorships available for free training opportunities.

2. APL Med Academy

APL Med Academy offers a comprehensive and convenient 5-week Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program, designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to start a successful career in the healthcare field. Our program stands out with its affordable prices, flexible training schedule, and experienced and professional teachers.

Located in a comfortable location with free parking, APL Med Academy is dedicated to the success of its students. In addition to providing a high-quality education, the academy offers unique job placement opportunities, even during training, and helps graduates find employment. With the shortest program in Colorado and both morning and night classes available, APL Med Academy accommodates a range of schedules.

Low tuition rates and small class sizes of up to 10 students make APL Med Academy the most accessible and personalized choice for aspiring CNAs. The school even holds the state board test on-site, giving students the opportunity to complete their certification in one place. The program is also the first step towards becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN).

Price: $1,140
Address: 2600 S Parker Rd Bld 6-300
Aurora CO, 80014
Phone: 303.752.0000
URL: https://aplmed.com/
Job Placement: Yes
Additional Features: $500 scholarships available for qualified students.

3. Eezy Training Institute

Eezy Training Institute offers comprehensive and hands-on CNA training to students in Denver, Colorado. Our program is designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the healthcare industry. The experienced and qualified instructors provide comprehensive education and hands-on training to prepare students for employment in the field.

The program continuously reviews and updates its curriculum to maintain its status as a top-ranked program in the state. The Institute values the rights of its students and offers support with community services as needed.

Price: Contact the school for current fees.
Address: 1230 S Parker Rd.
Denver, Colorado 80231
Phone: 303.396.8364
URL: https://www.eezytraining.com/
Job Placement: No
Additional Features: Community service opportunities are also available.

4. Colorado Medical Health Training, Inc.

Colorado Medical Health Training, Inc. offers comprehensive CNA classes. The program consists of 102 hours of classroom and laboratory study, as well as hands-on clinical training at a local long-term care facility. With a class size of only 10 students, students receive personalized attention from bachelors-prepared licensed instructors. The program includes free practice sessions prior to the state board exam, and assistance with job placement upon graduation.

Classes are available in the mornings, evenings, and on weekends. The tuition package includes a textbook/workbook, a CBI check, a student ID badge, and professional liability insurance. To be eligible for the program, students must have a high school diploma or GED certificate, pass an entrance exam, and complete an interview with the program director. Proof of a negative TB test or chest x-ray within the past year is also required. The school offers flexible payment options, and students are responsible for paying the remaining balance of tuition prior to graduation.

Price: $995
Address: 6670 S Broadway Unit 201
Centennial, CO 80121
Phone: 303.757.5858
URL: https://medicalhealthtraining.com/
Job Placement: Yes
Additional Features: Class size limited to ten students.

5. Cross Purpose **Free CNA Classes in Denver

Cross Purpose offers top-notch Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) classes. With a focus on hands-on training, students will work directly with patients to provide essential care. Their experts in the field provide the best training experience through their training partner, South Denver School of Nursing Arts. This is a great opportunity to start your career in healthcare and make a real difference in people’s lives.

Price: $0
Address: 3050 Richard Allen Ct.
Denver, CO 80205
Phone: 720.724.9544
URL: https://www.crosspurpose.org/
Job Placement: No
Additional Features: 5-week accelerated program.

6. Nightingale School of Nursing Arts **2-Week Accelerated CNA Program

Nightingale School of Nursing Arts provides comprehensive education in the healthcare industry to its students in a safe and engaging environment. Understanding that everyone has unique learning styles, the school has created a flexible scheduling system to accommodate students’ needs. The school combines the latest technology with traditional techniques to give its students the best chance to succeed as CNAs. At Nightingale, the team believes that healthcare is not just about technical skills, but also about treating others with dignity, respect, and compassion.

Price: $1,233
Address: 4955 West 72nd Avenue, Unit D
Westminster, CO 80030
Phone: 720.372.7166
URL: https://www.nightingalenursingarts.com/
Job Placement: No
Additional Features: Same day CPR certification available.

The CNA schools displayed in this section offer tuition-based programs.

7. Ann Rose School of Nursing Arts

Ann Rose School of Nursing Arts has been providing quality education in Westminster, CO for over 13 years. Founded by Gretchen McIntosh in 2006, the school is led by skilled nurses who are dedicated to teaching students how to care for patients with compassion and professionalism.

With small class sizes, students receive personalized attention and hands-on experience to help them become certified nursing aides in Denver, CO. In addition to practical training, students will have the opportunity to work in various healthcare settings and gain real-world experience. At Ann Rose, a fun and healthy environment is prioritized, with coffee and snacks always available.

With a motto of “Never a problem, always a challenge in nursing,” Ann Rose School of Nursing Arts provides a supportive and engaging learning environment for all its students.

Price: $1,200 – does not include state exam fee.
Address: 7280 Irving St. B-205
Westminster, CO 80030
Phone: 303.650.2994
URL: https://www.annroseschoolofnursingarts.com/
Job Placement: No
Additional Features: 8-day fast track CNA program available.

8. Agape Angelicum School of Nursing Arts

Agape Angelicum School of Nursing Arts is committed to providing quality education and training to individuals seeking a career as a nursing aide, home health aide, or primary care provider. With personalized teaching methods and flexible class scheduling, students receive individualized attention and the opportunity to review and practice their skills.

The school boasts a high student success rate and a strong track record of passing rates on the Colorado Board Exam. At Agape Angelicum, the mission is to develop highly competent and compassionate healthcare professionals who are safe, knowledgeable, and dedicated to providing excellent care.

Price: $928
Address: 5005 W 81st Place Suite 203
Westminster, CO 80031
Phone: 720.470.6563
URL: https://agapeangelicum.tripod.com/
Job Placement: Yes
Additional Features: Free tuition available for qualified students.

9. Community College of Denver

The Community College of Denver offers a comprehensive Nurse Aide program that prepares students for a rewarding career in healthcare. The program covers the basic principles of nursing and provides hands-on clinical practice to help students develop their skills.

Upon completion and passing of the state exam, graduates become Certified Nurse Aides and are eligible to work in their state of certification. The program is also ideal for those looking to gain employable skills and advance their careers in the healthcare field.

Price: $1,103
Address: 1111 W. Colfax Ave.
Denver, CO 80204
Phone: 303.556.2600
URL: https://www.ccd.edu/program/nurse-aide
Job Placement: No
Additional Features: Possible free tuition through Care Forward Colorado funding.

10. Community College of Aurora

Discover a world of opportunities in the healthcare industry with CNA classes at Community College of Aurora. With flexible scheduling and a combination of lecture and practical exercises, students will receive a well-rounded education in nursing assistance. Hands-on experience in a clinical setting, combined with preparation for the State of Colorado Nurse’s Aide Certification exam, will give students the tools they need to succeed.

Students are responsible for certification testing fees and the cost of immunizations and physician fees, which are not included in the tuition. Before beginning clinical rotations, students must pass a criminal background check, drug screen, and physician’s clearance and provide proof of specific immunizations.

Price: $1,041
Address: 16000 E. CentreTech Pkwy.
Aurora, CO 80011
Phone: 303.360.4700
URL: https://www.ccaurora.edu/programs-classes/departments/health-services/nursing-assistant
Job Placement: No
Additional Features: Students must complete both NUA 101 and NUA 170

How Much Do CNAs Get Paid in Denver?

The average hourly pay for CNAs in Denver is $19.35. That comes out to $40,2500 annually, which is 11.1% better than the national average. Top earning CNAs in the Denver, Aurora, Lakewood metro (the top 10%) make $46,660 or more.

How Much Do CNA Courses Cost in Denver?

The average CNA class in Denver will cost you around $1,250, but you can find classes that cost a couple hundred dollars more or less than that. As you research schools be sure to see what’s included with the advertised price. Some schools will share a price that doesn’t include things like registration fees, scrubs, textbooks, background checks and other items that will ramp up your total cost.

Job Opportunities for CNAs in Denver

CNAs work in a lot of different locations from long-term care centers to hospitals, to government facilities. In all, there are 10,990 CNAs working in the Denver metro area. Based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, here are the top industries employing CNAs in the area.

Industry TypeDenver CNA Employment
Nursing Care Facilities (Skilled Nursing Facilities)3,841
General Medical and Surgical Hospitals3,151
Continuing Care Retirement Communities and Assisted Living Facilities for the Elderly1,148
Home Health Care Services681
Employment Services317
Individual and Family Services296
Specialty (except Psychiatric and Substance Abuse) Hospitals213
Local Government, excluding schools and hospitals (OES Designation)211
Offices of Physicians142
Federal Executive Branch (OES Designation)131
State Government, excluding schools and hospitals (OES Designation)116

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