CNA Classes & Programs in Denver, Colorado
11 state-approved CNA programs in Denver, including free, 4-week, evening and weekend options.
Free to use. No obligation to enroll. Compare multiple programs. We may earn a fee when you request information from schools.
CNA training in Denver
- Programs
- 11
- state-approved
- Median CNA pay
- $44,340
- $21.32 an hour
- CNA jobs
- 10,810
- in the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood region
- Healthcare facilities
- 69
- 23 nursing homes, 7 hospitals and 39 home health agencies
- Population
- 710,800
- residents
Sources: BLS OEWS (May 2023), CMS (July 2025).
On this page
What brings you here?
Free to use. No obligation to enroll. Compare multiple programs. We may earn a fee when you request information from schools.
Denver is home to 11 CNA programs, giving aspiring nursing assistants a wide selection of training options in this major metropolitan area. Whether you are looking for a traditional classroom experience or want to explore alternative pathways, Denver's programs are structured to support students from diverse backgrounds and career goals.
The city offers both free CNA classes and accelerated program options, allowing students to begin their healthcare careers efficiently or with reduced financial barriers. CNA classes in Denver provide essential preparation for state certification and build the skills needed for roles in hospitals, nursing homes, and home health settings throughout the city.
In the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood region, CNAs earn around $44,340 annually. With Denver’s strong healthcare sector and multiple CNA training programs, students can expect a supportive environment as they move from education into employment.
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Browse CNA Classes in Denver
Students in Denver can choose from 11 CNA programs, including free CNA training and accelerated courses, designed to prepare graduates for Colorado state certification. Each CNA program equips students with job-ready skills and supports successful entry into healthcare careers where CNAs are in demand throughout the city. These programs focus on certification readiness and practical knowledge needed for employment across Denver’s diverse medical facilities.
Program Types in Denver
| Type | In Denver | Where to look |
|---|---|---|
| Free or employer-paid | 1 program | Abby Care ↓ |
| 4-week (accelerated) | 1 program | Care Synergy ↓ |
| Online or hybrid | Not in Denver | See other Colorado cities → |
| Evening or weekend | 3 programs | See them ↓ |
A program can appear under more than one type. Counts come from each program's published details.
All 11 CNA programs in Denver
Abby Care
CostFreeHours–Weeks–
- Address
- 950 S Cherry St, Ste 714, Denver, CO 80246
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (303) 699-8840
Abby Care enables eligible family caregivers in Colorado to become certified through no-cost training and then supports their paid caregiving role. The program focuses on Family CNA and related Medicaid-supported in‑home care models.
Visit websiteCare Synergy
Cost$1,050Hours76Weeks2
- Address
- 8299 E Lowry Blvd, Denver, CO 80230
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (303) 780-4600
Care Synergy’s CNA program is a two‑week, 76‑hour course with classroom instruction, simulation lab, and two days of clinicals at a skilled nursing facility. Multiple sessions are offered throughout the year.
Visit websiteCommunity College of Denver
Cost$1,103Hours–Weeks–
- Address
- 1070 Alton Way, Bldg 849, Denver, CO 80230
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (303) 365-8300
- Schedule
- Weekend classes
CCD’s five-credit Nurse Aide certificate can be completed in as little as 7.5 weeks with day or weekend options at the Auraria or Lowry campuses. The page lists estimated tuition/fees and required costs and notes the 5-credit program is not financial-aid eligible.
Visit websiteEmily Griffith Technical College
Cost$1,495Hours107Weeks–
- Address
- 1860 Lincoln St, Denver, CO 80203
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (720) 423-4700
- Schedule
- Evening classes
State‑approved Nurse Assisting program with part‑time day and evening options; includes NUA 1001 skills and NUA 1070 clinical at the Main Campus. Published cost is 1495 with additional required items (books, uniform, testing fees) not included.
Visit websiteCEC Early College
Cost–Hours–Weeks–
- Address
- 2650 Eliot St, Denver, CO 80211
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (720) 423-6600
Year-long Medical Careers/CNA course for grades 11–12 emphasizes Nurse Aide skills with college credit and a spring clinical; AM or PM sections available.
Visit websiteDPS West High School
Cost–Hours–Weeks–
- Address
- 951 Elati St, Denver, CO 80204
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (720) 423-5482
DPS West High School is a state-approved CNA training provider. Contact them directly for program details and enrollment information.
Visit websiteIver C Ranum Innovation Center
Cost–Hours–Weeks–
- Address
- 2401 W 80th Ave, Denver, CO 80221
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (720) 542-4801
Westminster Public Schools’ CNA/Medical Assistant pathway prepares students with nursing assistant theory, hands-on skills, and clinical experience aligned to state competencies. Students also earn CPR certification.
Visit websitePima Medical Institute - North
Cost–Hours125Weeks6
- Address
- 7475 Dakin St, Ste 100, Denver, CO 80221
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (800) 477-7462
- Schedule
- Evening classes
PMI’s Nursing Assistant/Nurse Aide certificate can be completed in about 6 weeks and includes classroom, lab, and a supervised externship. Day and evening cohorts are offered, with career services support after graduation.
Visit websiteSt. Joseph Hospital Foundation
Cost–Hours165Weeks–
- Address
- 1375 E 19th Ave, Denver, CO 80218
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (303) 812-2000
Saint Joseph Hospital hosts CNA training through a partnership with Denver Public Schools, featuring on‑site instruction and clinical experiences.
Visit websiteSunflower Health Academy
Cost–Hours–Weeks–
- Address
- 1100 S Shoshone St, Denver, CO 80223
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (720) 502-4070
Sunflower Health Academy is a state-approved CNA training provider. Contact them directly for program details and enrollment information.
Visit websiteVista Academy
Cost–Hours–Weeks–
- Address
- 4800 Telluride, Bldg 6, Denver, CO 80249
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (720) 423-7650
Vista Academy’s Health Science CTE pathway offers a three-trimester Certified Nursing Assistant program with e-learning, hands-on labs, CPR, and field experiences. Instruction covers foundational health topics and CNA skills led by an RN instructor.
Visit websiteCost, hours and weeks are each school's published figures, so confirm them with the school. A dash means the school has not published it.
Not sure which of the 11 programs fits you?
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Explore CNA Programs in Other Cities
Nearby cities
Major Colorado cities
All Colorado cities with CNA programs →CNA Employment Opportunities in Denver
| Median annual pay | $44,340 |
|---|---|
| Median hourly pay | $21.32 |
| CNA jobs in the region | 10,810 |
| Salary region | Denver-Aurora-Lakewood |
Source: BLS OEWS (May 2023), median wages for nursing assistants.
In the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood region, approximately 10,810 CNAs are employed according to the latest available data. This significant workforce reflects the area’s large population and ongoing demand for qualified nursing assistants across a variety of healthcare settings. Employment opportunities remain steady due to Denver's position as a regional healthcare hub.
The CNA salary in Denver is best represented by metro-level data. In the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood region, CNAs earn around $44,340 per year (or $21.32 per hour), according to BLS OEWS (May 2023). This median wage is notably higher than the statewide median of $41,940, indicating competitive compensation for CNAs working in this metropolitan area.
CNA job opportunities span 23 CMS-certified nursing homes, 7 hospitals, and 39 home health agencies within Denver. Notable employers include Center At Lowry, Llc (a 96-bed facility), Saint Joseph Hospital (a voluntary non-profit acute care hospital with an overall rating of 5), and Accentcare Home Health Of Mountain Valley Llc (a proprietary agency with a quality rating of 4.5). These facilities exemplify the range of settings where CNAs can build their careers in Denver’s healthcare sector.
Nursing Homes Hiring CNAs in Denver (23 facilities)
23 nursing homes in Denver providing CNA employment opportunities. Showing top 5 facilities ranked by CNA hours per resident per day (as provided by official data). Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
| Nursing home | Beds | CNA hrs/day |
|---|---|---|
| Center At Lowry, Llc8550 E Lowry Blvd(303) 676-4000Map | 96 | 2.7 |
| Suites At Clermont Park Care Center, The2480 S Clermont St(720) 974-3901Map | 63 | 2.5 |
| Westwood Post Acute3185 W Arkansas Ave(303) 922-1169Map | 85 | 2.5 |
| City Scape Rehabilitation & Care Center Llc3345 Forest St(303) 393-7600Map | 60 | 2.5 |
| Sloan'S Lake Rehabilitation Center1601 Lowell Blvd(303) 534-2211Map | 42 | 2.4 |
Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Denver (7 facilities)
7 hospitals in Denver offering CNA employment opportunities. Showing top 5 facilities ranked by overall rating (as provided by official data). Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
| Hospital | Rating |
|---|---|
| Saint Joseph HospitalAcute Care Hospitals · 1375 E 19Th Ave(303) 812-2000Map | 5/5 |
| Centura Health-Porter Adventist HospitalAcute Care Hospitals · 2525 S Downing St(303) 778-1955Map | 4/5 |
| Denver Health & Hospital AuthorityAcute Care Hospitals · 777 Bannock St(303) 436-4927Map | 3/5 |
| Hca Healthone Presbyterian St LukesAcute Care Hospitals · 1719 E 19Th Ave(720) 754-6000Map | 3/5 |
| Hca Healthone RoseAcute Care Hospitals · 4567 E 9Th Ave(303) 320-2121Map | 3/5 |
Home Health Agencies Hiring CNAs in Denver (39 facilities)
39 home health agencies in Denver providing CNA career opportunities. Showing top 5 facilities ranked by quality rating (as provided by official data). Source: CMS home health agencies (July 2025)
| Agency | Quality |
|---|---|
| Accentcare Home Health Of Mountain Valley Llc455 Sherman Street Ste 465(303) 620-5402Map | 4.5/5 |
| Bayada Home Health Care Inc1325 S Colorado Blvd(303) 782-0900Map | 4.5/5 |
| Ace Home Healthcare Llc4582 S Ulster St Ste 206(720) 909-8180Map | 4.0/5 |
| Optimal Home Care Inc4380 S Syracuse St Ste 600(303) 488-9999Map | 4.0/5 |
| Pam Health At Home9025 E Kenyon(720) 808-0001Map | 4.0/5 |
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Working in Nearby Cities and Other States
Working in Nearby Cities
Looking beyond Denver? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Aurora, Lakewood, Thornton, Arvada, and Westminster, or browse the Colorado CNA programs page for more options.
Working in Other States
Planning to move or gain experience working in other states? Use our reciprocity guide to transfer your existing CNA license across states.
Working Through Agencies or as a Travel CNA
If you're already certified and would like to work through an agency or work as a travel CNA, browse here our directory of CNA agencies or simply fill out this short form to get matched with 3 personalized CNA agencies that can help you land your next job.
Requirements to Work as a CNA in Denver, CO
To work as a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) in Denver, you must meet the statewide CNA requirements set by Colorado. These include completing a Colorado State Board of Nursing–approved nurse aide training program, passing the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) examination administered by Credentia, and holding active certification with the Colorado State Board of Nursing.
- At least 75 hours of training combining classroom instruction, laboratory practice, and supervised clinical experience
- Completion of the first 16 hours of pre-clinical training before any direct client contact
- Passing both the knowledge exam (70 multiple-choice questions, 2 hours) and the skills evaluation (five randomly selected skills)
- Up to three attempts per component, with both passed within 24 months of submitting your application to Credentia before retraining is required
- Application disclosures and screening questions reviewed by the Board on a case-by-case basis
- Certification issued by the Colorado State Board of Nursing through the CNA365 platform, with active status reflected in the Colorado Nurse Aide Registry
Once certified, you may work as a CNA in nursing homes, hospitals, assisted living communities, home health agencies, hospices, and other healthcare settings throughout Denver and across Colorado. Certification must be renewed every two years, and CNAs must have performed at least 8 hours of paid nursing or nursing-related services during the certification period to remain eligible.
Already certified in another state? Colorado offers certification by endorsement for out-of-state nurse aides who hold a current, active certification in good standing. Applicants apply through the CNA365 platform, disclose any criminal or disciplinary history, and arrange verification of their out-of-state certification. Learn more in our CNA License Reciprocity in Colorado guide.
For complete details on training, testing, renewal, and maintaining certification, see our full CNA License & Registration in Colorado guide.
Career Growth & Advancement
Many CNAs use their experience as a stepping stone toward advanced healthcare careers:
- Specialized certifications (e.g., dementia care, medication aide)
- Promotion into shift supervisor or training coordinator roles
- Bridge programs to become an LPN or RN
- Opportunities in healthcare administration or education
Ready to start? Get info from CNA schools in Denver.
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Frequently Asked Questions about CNA Classes in Denver
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Denver?
Most CNA programs in Denver can be completed in 4–12 weeks, depending on whether you choose a traditional, accelerated, or weekend schedule. The shortest published length here is 2 weeks, at Care Synergy.
How much does CNA training cost in Denver?
CNA programs in Denver cost between $1,050 and $1,495, depending on the school. One program is free or employer-paid. The lowest-priced paid option is Care Synergy at $1,050. Some schools and healthcare employers may cover the cost or reimburse you after hiring.
Are there free CNA classes in Denver?
Yes. Abby Care offers free or employer-paid CNA training. Some hospitals, nursing homes, and workforce programs may also offer free CNA training in exchange for a work commitment.
Are there online CNA training options available in Denver?
No program in Denver is listed with online classes. Online and hybrid programs are offered in other Colorado cities. Clinical training is always in person.
Are there any 4-week CNA classes in Denver?
Yes. Care Synergy is an accelerated program. Accelerated programs usually take 3 to 5 weeks, depending on class schedules and clinical requirements.
Which nearby cities are there for CNA classes and job opportunities?
Near Denver there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Aurora, Lakewood, Thornton, Arvada and Westminster. You can also look at the Colorado state page to find more.
How do I get listed on the Colorado CNA registry?
To work as a CNA in Colorado, you must be added to the official state registry. See our Colorado CNA registry guide for step-by-step instructions.
Where do CNAs work in Denver?
CNAs in Denver are employed in hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, and other healthcare facilities. CMS lists 23 nursing homes, 7 hospitals and 39 home health agencies in Denver. Many also use their CNA experience as a stepping stone to LPN or RN careers.
Information accuracy: requirements, salary data and other information are compiled from official sources but can change. Please confirm with the school or the state before making decisions. If you spot a mistake, let us know.