CNA Classes & Programs in Chicago, Illinois
Get Information from CNA Programs in Chicago and Nearby
Chicago offers 30 CNA programs for those interested in beginning a healthcare career in one of the largest cities in Illinois. Aspiring nursing assistants can take advantage of varied learning formats, including online and free CNA classes, ensuring flexible options for different schedules and budgets. The city’s size and diverse population contribute to an active environment for healthcare training and employment.
Training in Chicago is supported by an extensive network of medical facilities, ranging from hospitals to nursing homes and home health agencies. In the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin metro area, CNAs earn around $41,600 annually, which is above the statewide median figure. Accelerated programs are also available for those who want to enter the workforce more quickly. Graduates find job opportunities throughout these facilities upon completion of their CNA courses.
CNA classes in Chicago are structured to prepare students for state certification and real-world patient care roles. With a variety of program formats and local employers hiring new CNAs, individuals can pursue a rewarding path in healthcare.
Quick Facts About Chicago
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Population2,721,914Residents
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CNA Programs30State-approved Programs
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Median Income$71,673Median Annual Income
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CNA Hourly Rate$20.00Median Hourly Rate
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CNA Yearly Salary$41,600Median Annual Salary
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Facilities177CMS Healthcare Facilities78 Nursing Homes • 35 Hospitals • 64 Home Health Agencies
Get Information from CNA Programs in Chicago and Nearby
Schools in Chicago 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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Browse CNA Classes in Chicago
Chicago offers 30 CNA training programs that prepare students for Illinois state certification through practical instruction and career-focused coursework. Options include accelerated classes, online courses, and free CNA training, providing flexibility for those working toward certification. Graduates are equipped for entry into the field with skills valued by healthcare employers, where CNAs are consistently needed throughout Chicago’s dynamic medical sector.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: available in Chicago through various funding sources including employer sponsorship and grants.
Accelerated programs: available in Chicago and are usually 4-week programs, sometimes 3 or 5 weeks.
Online programs: Some classes in Chicago offer online coursework combined with local clinical training.
Chicago State University
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Life Enhancement Health Care Institute
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Phalanx Family Services
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Chicago Community Learning Center
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Dominican University - Paulina
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Wm. H Loftin Education Consultants
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Kodex Health Institute
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TTI Medical Training School
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Northwestern Memorial Healthcare
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Cristab Healthcare Learning Center
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Scott School of Careers - Chicago
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Endeavor Health Swedish Hospital
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Nirvana Institute - South Campus
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Nirvana Institute - North Campus
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Career Training Center of Chicago
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Chicago’s Pulse CPR
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Airey Healthcare
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Instituto del Progreso Latino
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Great Paragon Health Services, Inc.
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Nirvana Institute - West Campus
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Blessings Healthcare Career Academy
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Malcolm X College - Wright College Humboldt Park
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West Side Learning Center
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Malcolm X College
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Malcolm X College - Kennedy King Campus
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Valparaiso Partner Solutions
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First Step to Excellence Health Care Training
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Anmut Nursing School
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Lights of Zion Ministries
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Renee's School of Careers
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CNA Employment Opportunities in Chicago
CNA Salary Information
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Annual Salary$41,600Median Yearly Pay
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Hourly Rate$20.00Median Per Hour
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Available Jobs41,870CNA Positions
In the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin region, approximately 41,870 CNAs are employed across a range of healthcare settings. The demand for certified nursing assistants remains steady as Chicago serves as a central hub for healthcare services in northern Illinois, offering diverse employment opportunities for those entering the field. CNA jobs in Chicago are available in hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies.
CNA salary in Chicago reflects regional market conditions. In the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin area, CNAs earn around $41,600 annually or $20 per hour according to BLS OEWS (May 2023), which is above the Illinois statewide median of $39,510. This data highlights that wages for CNAs in this metropolitan region tend to be higher than many other parts of the state.
The city features a wide array of CMS-certified employers. Notable facilities include Smith Village, a nonprofit nursing home with 93 beds; Northwestern Memorial Hospital, recognized as a major employer with top CMS ratings; Rush University Medical Center; Admiral at the Lake, The; and All Family Health Care, Inc., which has earned strong quality ratings among home health agencies. With 78 nursing homes, 35 hospitals—including several renowned teaching hospitals—and 64 home health agencies based on recent CMS data, Chicago offers numerous workplace settings for new and experienced CNAs alike.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Ready to get certified and start your CNA career in Chicago? 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 Chicago? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Cicero, Aurora, Joliet, Naperville, and Elgin, 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 Chicago (78 facilities)
78 nursing homes in Chicago providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
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Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Chicago (35 facilities)
35 hospitals in Chicago offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
Jesse Brown Va Medical Center - Va Chicago Healthcare System
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Rush University Medical Center
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Amita Health Resurrection Medical Center
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Presence Saint Joseph Hospital - Chicago
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Home Health Agencies Hiring CNAs in Chicago (64 facilities)
64 home health agencies in Chicago providing CNA career opportunities. Source: CMS home health agencies (July 2025)
All Family Health Care, Inc
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Aster Home Health Services, Llc
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Diversified Home Care, Inc
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A-Cure Healthcare Solutions, Inc
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All About Healthcare, Inc
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Requirements to Work as a CNA in Chicago, IL
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Chicago, 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 Chicago 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 Chicago
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Chicago?
Most CNA programs in Chicago 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 Chicago?
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 Chicago?
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 Chicago?
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 Chicago?
Yes, some schools in Chicago 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 Chicago there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Cicero, Aurora, Joliet, Naperville, and Elgin. 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 Chicago?
CNAs in Chicago 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.