CNA Classes & Programs in Grand Junction, Colorado
2 state-approved CNA programs in Grand Junction, including free, 4-week and evening options. Online programs are offered in other Colorado cities.
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CNA training in Grand Junction
- Programs
- 2
- state-approved
- Median CNA pay
- $38,480
- $18.50 an hour
- CNA jobs
- 640
- in the Grand Junction region
- Healthcare facilities
- 17
- 6 nursing homes, 4 hospitals and 7 home health agencies
- Population
- 65,918
- residents
Sources: BLS OEWS (May 2023), CMS (July 2025).
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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.
Grand Junction is home to 2 CNA programs, providing essential training for those entering the healthcare field. Situated in western Colorado, this city offers opportunities for aspiring nursing assistants to develop practical skills and prepare for certification. Residents benefit from a supportive local environment, and those seeking more affordable options will find free CNA classes available in the area.
Training in Grand Junction is complemented by a range of local healthcare facilities, including 6 nursing homes, 4 hospitals, and several home health agencies. These institutions not only offer employment prospects after certification but also highlight the demand for qualified CNAs throughout the region. For those looking to complete their training more quickly, one accelerated program is available.
In the Grand Junction area, CNAs earn around $38,480 annually according to recent data. This figure helps prospective students gauge local earning potential as they consider enrolling in CNA classes or pursuing state certification.
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Browse CNA Classes in Grand Junction
Students in Grand Junction can choose from 2 CNA programs, including free CNA training and an accelerated option for those seeking a quicker path to Colorado state certification. These programs prepare students with practical knowledge and clinical skills needed for success on the state exam and readiness for employment throughout Grand Junction’s healthcare community.
Program Types in Grand Junction
| Type | In Grand Junction | Where to look |
|---|---|---|
| Free or employer-paid | 2 programs | See them ↓ |
| 4-week (accelerated) | 1 program | Colorado Mesa University Tech ↓ |
| Online or hybrid | Not in Grand Junction | See other Colorado cities → |
| Evening or weekend | 2 programs | See them ↓ |
A program can appear under more than one type. Counts come from each program's published details.
Both CNA programs in Grand Junction
Lowest published cost first.
Colorado Mesa University Tech
CostFreeHours92Weeks5
- Address
- 2501 Blichmann Ave, Grand Junction, CO 81505
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (970) 255-2600
- Schedule
- Evening classes
CMU Tech’s in‑person Nurse Aide certificate runs about 5 weeks with day and evening options and a minimum of 92 contact hours; weeks 1–4 are classes and week 5 is clinical. An apprenticeship grant can cover tuition and place students with partner employers.
Visit websiteWestern Colorado Area Health Education Center
CostFreeHours104Weeks–
- Address
- 2938 North Ave, Unit B, Grand Junction, CO 81504
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (970) 434-5474
- Schedule
- Evening classes
WCAHEC’s Nurse Aide Training Program is 104 hours and prepares students for the Colorado CNA exam, with day and evening cohorts offered. Apprenticeship options can cover tuition and provide employment support.
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.
CNA Programs Near Grand Junction
Looking for more options near Grand Junction?
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Explore CNA Programs in Other Cities
Major Colorado cities
- Denver11 programs
- Colorado Springs8 programs
- Aurora4 programs
- Fort Collins2 programs
- Lakewood3 programs
- Thornton1 program
CNA Employment Opportunities in Grand Junction
| Median annual pay | $38,480 |
|---|---|
| Median hourly pay | $18.50 |
| CNA jobs in the region | 640 |
| Salary region | Grand Junction |
Source: BLS OEWS (May 2023), median wages for nursing assistants.
CNA jobs in Grand Junction are supported by approximately 640 employed CNAs working across a range of healthcare settings. The presence of hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies reflects ongoing demand for certified nursing assistants within the local workforce. Many graduates of CNA training programs in Grand Junction find opportunities close to home thanks to the area’s established network of CMS-certified facilities.
The CNA salary in Grand Junction is around $38,480 per year (or about $18.50 per hour), according to BLS OEWS (May 2023). This regional median salary is slightly below Colorado’s statewide figure of $41,940 annually, reflecting localized wage trends. Prospective CNAs should consider both annual and hourly compensation when evaluating career pathways in the area.
Notable employers include Center at Foresight LLC, The—a 54-bed for-profit nursing facility; Larchwood Inns with 130 beds; and Eagle Ridge Post Acute, which offers care in a corporate setting with 70 beds. Hospital-based positions may be found at Community Hospital or Intermountain Health St. Mary’s Regional Hospital. Home health agencies such as Elite Care At Home and Summitwest Care also contribute to the city’s diverse employment landscape for CNAs.
Nursing Homes Hiring CNAs in Grand Junction (6 facilities)
6 nursing homes in Grand Junction 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 Foresight Llc, The606 Foresight Cir E(970) 985-7900Map | 54 | 2.9 |
| Larchwood Inns2845 N 15Th St(970) 245-0022Map | 130 | 2.8 |
| Eagle Ridge Post Acute2425 Teller Ave(970) 243-3381Map | 70 | 2.1 |
| Mantey Heights Rehabilitation & Care Center2825 Patterson Rd(970) 242-7356Map | 88 | 1.9 |
| Red Cliffs Post Acute2901 N 12Th St(970) 243-7211Map | 89 | 1.8 |
Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Grand Junction (4 facilities)
4 hospitals in Grand Junction offering CNA employment opportunities. Showing top 4 facilities ranked by overall rating (as provided by official data). Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
| Hospital | Rating |
|---|---|
| Grand Junction Va Medical CenterAcute Care - Veterans Administration · 2121 N. Avenue(970) 242-0731Map | 5/5 |
| Community HospitalAcute Care Hospitals · 2351 'G' Rd(970) 242-0920Map | 4/5 |
| Intermountain Health St. Mary'S Regional HospitalAcute Care Hospitals · 2635 N 7Th St(970) 298-2273Map | 4/5 |
| West Springs Hospital, IncPsychiatric · 515 28 3/4 Rd(970) 263-4918Map | – |
Home Health Agencies Hiring CNAs in Grand Junction (7 facilities)
7 home health agencies in Grand Junction 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 |
|---|---|
| Elite Care At Home715 Horizon Dr Ste 390(970) 208-8359Map | 5.0/5 |
| Centerwell Home Health2764 Compass Dr Ste 108B(970) 257-1275Map | 4.0/5 |
| Summitwest Care2800 Printers Way Ste 200(970) 263-0202Map | 4.0/5 |
| Abode Home Health Of Colorado744 Horizon Ct Ste 128(970) 541-0381Map | 3.0/5 |
| Pasco/Sw Home Health - Grand Junction2764 Compass Dr Ste 244(877) 685-6833Map | 3.0/5 |
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 Grand Junction? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Montrose, Rifle, Delta, Olathe, and Glenwood Springs, 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 Grand Junction, CO
To work as a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) in Grand Junction, 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 Grand Junction 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 Grand Junction.
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Frequently Asked Questions about CNA Classes in Grand Junction
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Grand Junction?
Most CNA programs in Grand Junction can be completed in 4–12 weeks, depending on whether you choose a traditional, accelerated, or weekend schedule. The shortest published length here is 5 weeks, at Colorado Mesa University Tech.
How much does CNA training cost in Grand Junction?
Both CNA programs in Grand Junction are free or employer-paid.
Are there free CNA classes in Grand Junction?
Yes. 2 programs in Grand Junction are free or employer-paid: Colorado Mesa University Tech and Western Colorado Area Health Education Center. 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 Grand Junction?
No program in Grand Junction 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 Grand Junction?
Yes. Colorado Mesa University Tech 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 Grand Junction there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Montrose, Rifle, Delta, Olathe and Glenwood Springs. 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 Grand Junction?
CNAs in Grand Junction are employed in hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, and other healthcare facilities. CMS lists 6 nursing homes, 4 hospitals and 7 home health agencies in Grand Junction. 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.