Certified Nursing Assistant Certificate Program at Illinois Central College

CNA Program Overview

Illinois Central College offers a comprehensive 7-credit-hour Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Certificate program within their Health Science career cluster. This state-approved program prepares students for essential healthcare roles through integrated classroom instruction, laboratory practice, and clinical experience. Upon completion, graduates earn a Certificate NFA and qualify for state certification examinations.

CNA Program Structure

Core Curriculum (CNA 112)

The program’s foundational course covers:

• Basic nursing competencies
• Patient rights and safety protocols
• Infection control procedures
• Specialized care for Alzheimer’s/dementia patients
• CPR certification
• Clinical skills development
• Professional communication

Clinical Training

Students receive hands-on experience in:

• Long-term care facilities
• Hospital settings
• Healthcare environments
• Supervised patient care
• Skill competency practice

Admission Requirements

General Eligibility

• Current high school enrollment OR
• High school diploma/equivalent
• Valid Social Security number
• Completed ICC admission application

Health Requirements

Students must complete:

• Physical examination
• Drug screening
• Immunization verification
• Criminal background check
• CPR certification (AHA Healthcare Provider or ARC Professional Rescuer)

Professional Certification

• Program approved by Illinois Department of Public Health
• Competency testing for 21 manual skills
• Written examination requirement
• State certification eligibility
• Stackable credentials toward nursing programs

Program Goals

Students develop:

• Essential nursing competencies
• Professional behavior standards
• Critical thinking abilities
• Patient care expertise
• Healthcare communication skills

Career Opportunities

Graduates qualify for positions in:

• Nursing homes
• Long-term care facilities
• Hospitals and clinics
• Home health agencies
• Community health organizations

Investment and Financial Aid

Estimated Costs

• In-district tuition: $160 per credit hour
• Total program tuition: $1,120 (7 credits)
• Additional fees may include:
  • Laboratory fees
  • Supply costs
  • HESI assessment
  • Digital materials

Financial Assistance

• Federal Financial Aid (FAFSA)
• ICC Educational Foundation scholarships
• Payment plan options
• Financial aid counseling is available

Contact Information

Health Careers Department

• Location: 1 College Dr, East Peoria, IL 61635
  • Peoria Campus, Cedar Building, Room 105
• Phone: (309) 690-7530
• Financial Aid Office: (309) 694-5600
• Educational Foundation: (309) 694-5530

Begin your healthcare career by contacting our Health Careers department for enrollment guidance and program details. Illinois Central College provides quality education and practical training for essential healthcare roles.

Note: Tuition rates and program requirements are subject to change. Contact the institution directly for current information and out-of-district rates.