CNA Classes & Programs in Carbondale, Illinois
Get Information from CNA Programs in Carbondale and Nearby
Carbondale is home to 1 CNA program providing essential preparation for individuals aiming to become certified nursing assistants in southern Illinois’s college-town setting. With its unique blend of community resources and access to reputable healthcare organizations nearby, Carbondale offers aspiring CNAs an accessible route into this vital field through approved classroom instruction.
The city features both hospital-based care at Memorial Hospital of Carbondale—a well-known regional facility—and multiple CMS-certified skilled nursing centers where many graduates find meaningful work after completing their training program. The available class covers all requirements set by Illinois authorities so that students can move confidently toward certification exams and employment readiness upon graduation.
In Carbondale-Marion region, local data shows annual CNA earnings around $36,700, giving prospective students insight into expected compensation levels upon entering this career path locally.
Quick Facts About Carbondale
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Population22,039Residents
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CNA Programs1State-approved Programs
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Median Income$27,360Median Annual Income
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CNA Hourly Rate$17.64Median Hourly Rate
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CNA Yearly Salary$36,700Median Annual Salary
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Facilities3CMS Healthcare Facilities2 Nursing Homes • 1 Hospital
Get Information from CNA Programs in Carbondale and Nearby
Schools in Carbondale and nearby are actively seeking qualified students. Fill out one quick form below to receive information directly from multiple accredited CNA programs.
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- Upcoming start dates & schedules
- Tuition costs & financial aid options
- Class locations & formats
- Program details & requirements
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Browse CNA Classes in Carbondale
Carbondale offers 1 CNA program that prepares candidates for Illinois state registry placement and equips them with practical knowledge needed for on-the-job success. Students gain essential skills for patient care in Carbondale’s diverse medical community, including hospitals and long-term care centers, ensuring readiness for state certification and entry into meaningful healthcare careers locally.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: currently not available in Illinois.
Accelerated programs: currently not available in Illinois.
Online programs: currently not available in Illinois.
Carbondale Community H.S.
Program Details
CNA Employment Opportunities in Carbondale
CNA Salary Information
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Annual Salary$36,700Median Yearly Pay
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Hourly Rate$17.64Median Per Hour
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Available Jobs750CNA Positions
CNA jobs in Carbondale are part of the Carbondale-Marion region, where about 750 certified nursing assistants are employed across various healthcare settings, including hospitals and skilled nursing centers serving southern Illinois communities. This regional demand underscores consistent opportunities available both within Carbondale and neighboring towns as new graduates seek their first roles after completing approved local training programs.
CNA salary in Carbondale aligns with figures reported throughout the Carbondale-Marion metro area. Here, the median annual pay stands at approximately $36,700, or about $17.64 per hour, according to BLS OEWS (May 2023). While this amount is somewhat below Illinois's statewide median ($39,510), it provides an accurate benchmark reflecting typical earnings expectations for entry-level positions secured after passing state exams locally.
The city features two notable CMS-certified skilled nursing facilities—Manor Court of Carbondale (120 beds) and Integrity HC of Carbondale (131 beds)—as well as Memorial Hospital of Carbondale, an acute care hospital known throughout southern Illinois. These organizations represent some of the main employers hiring new CNAs who have completed their required classroom education within Carbondale itself.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Ready to get certified and start your CNA career in Carbondale? Fill out one quick form to get program details and start dates from accredited schools in your area.
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Working in Nearby Cities
Looking beyond Carbondale? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Marion, Herrin, Murphysboro, Mount Vernon, and Harrisburg, or browse the Illinois 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.
Nursing Homes Hiring CNAs in Carbondale (2 facilities)
2 nursing homes in Carbondale providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
Facility Details
Facility Details
Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Carbondale (1 facilities)
1 hospital in Carbondale offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
Facility Details
Requirements to Work as a CNA in Carbondale, IL
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Carbondale, you must meet the statewide CNA requirements set by Illinois. These include completing an Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH)–approved Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP), passing the Illinois Nurse Aide Competency Examination administered by Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIUC), and being listed on the Illinois Health Care Worker Registry.
- At least 120 total hours of training (80 classroom and skills lab hours, 40 supervised clinical hours in a licensed long-term care facility)
- Completion of 16 hours of required instruction before any direct resident contact
- Background screening per Illinois requirements
- Unique testing structure: Skills are evaluated by instructors during training; only the written knowledge test is administered by the state (85 multiple-choice questions, 90 minutes, 80% minimum score)
- Up to three attempts to pass the written exam within two years of completing training before retraining is required
- Placement on the Illinois Health Care Worker Registry maintained by IDPH
Once certified, you can work in nursing homes, hospitals, home health agencies, and other licensed healthcare settings throughout Carbondale and across Illinois. CNAs must complete at least 8 hours of paid nursing work within 24 months to maintain active certification.
Already certified in another state? Illinois offers registry-based reciprocity for out-of-state CNAs who hold active certification in good standing and meet federal OBRA training standards. Additional documentation may be required. Learn more in our CNA License Reciprocity in Illinois guide.
For complete details on training programs, testing procedures, renewal requirements, and maintaining active registry status, see our comprehensive CNA License & Registration in Illinois 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
Frequently Asked Questions about CNA Classes in Carbondale
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Carbondale?
Most CNA programs in Carbondale can be completed in 4–12 weeks, depending on whether you choose a traditional, accelerated, or weekend schedule.
How much does CNA training cost in Carbondale?
Tuition typically ranges from $800–$1,500, though may be higher depending on the program. Some schools and healthcare employers may cover the cost or reimburse you after hiring.
Are there free CNA classes in Carbondale?
Some hospitals, nursing homes, and workforce programs may offer free CNA training in exchange for a work commitment.
Are there online CNA training options available in Carbondale?
Several schools offer hybrid options with online coursework and in-person clinical training at local healthcare facilities.
Are there any 4-weeks CNA classes in Carbondale?
Yes, some schools in Carbondale or nearby areas may offer accelerated CNA programs that can be completed in as little as 4 weeks, depending on class schedules and clinical requirements.
Which nearby cities are there for CNA classes and job opportunities?
Near Carbondale there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Marion, Herrin, Murphysboro, Mount Vernon, and Harrisburg. You can also look at the Illinois state page to find more.
How do I get listed on the Illinois CNA registry?
To work as a CNA in Illinois, you must be added to the official state registry. See our Illinois CNA registry guide for step-by-step instructions.
Where do CNAs work in Carbondale?
CNAs in Carbondale are employed in hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, and other healthcare facilities. Many also use their CNA experience as a stepping stone to LPN or RN careers.
Information Accuracy: Requirements, salary data, and other information are carefully compiled and based on the latest available sources, but may change. Please verify with official sources before making decisions. If you spot a mistake, let us know.