CNA Classes & Programs in Chicago Heights, Illinois
Get Information from CNA Programs in Chicago Heights and Nearby
Chicago Heights offers 2 CNA programs for those seeking entry into the healthcare field. Located within the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin metro area, this community gives aspiring nursing assistants convenient options to begin their training close to home. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to switch careers, local CNA classes provide a direct path toward state certification.
In Chicago Heights, students can find both traditional and accelerated CNA training programs. The presence of an accelerated option allows some students to complete their coursework in a shorter timeframe, making it possible to enter the workforce more quickly. Graduates benefit from proximity to several healthcare employers, including nursing homes and home health agencies in the area, which often seek newly certified CNAs for a variety of care settings.
In the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin region, CNAs earn around $41,600 per year. This salary reflects opportunities available across the broader metro area and may be influenced by experience and facility type. Completing a CNA program in Chicago Heights can help prepare individuals for these rewarding roles.
Quick Facts About Chicago Heights
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Population27,366Residents
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CNA Programs2State-approved Programs
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Median Income$56,755Median 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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Facilities4CMS Healthcare Facilities2 Nursing Homes • 2 Home Health Agencies
Get Information from CNA Programs in Chicago Heights and Nearby
Schools in Chicago Heights 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 Chicago Heights
Chicago Heights provides 2 CNA classes that prepare students for Illinois certification and registry. With both standard and accelerated options, these CNA training programs enable participants to qualify for entry-level roles in healthcare while building practical skills for patient care. Graduates are equipped for certification success and employment in local settings with ongoing demand for CNAs throughout the region.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: not available in Chicago Heights, but free classes are available in other cities throughout Illinois.
Accelerated programs: available in Chicago Heights and are usually 4-week programs, sometimes 3 or 5 weeks.
Online programs not available in Chicago Heights but are offered in other cities throughout Illinois.
Excelsior Healthcare Academy
Program Details
Prairie State College
Program Details
CNA Employment Opportunities in Chicago Heights
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 metro area, approximately 41,870 CNAs are employed according to recent data. This regional employment figure demonstrates steady opportunities for certified nursing assistants seeking positions across various healthcare environments near Chicago Heights.
CNA salary in Chicago Heights is best understood by looking at regional data: In the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin area, CNAs earn around $41,600 annually (or about $20 per hour), based on BLS OEWS (May 2023) figures. This median wage is above the Illinois statewide figure of $39,510 per year, suggesting that local compensation remains competitive within the broader metro area.
Job seekers may find employment at CMS-certified facilities such as Prairie Manor Nrsg & Rehab Ctr—a 148-bed nursing home at 345 Dixie Highway—and Aperion Care Chicago Heights with 200 beds on West 16th Place. Additionally, local home health agencies like Uchange Inc. on Park Avenue and Dinamic Health Care, Llc on West Lincoln Hwy provide further options for those interested in community-based care roles.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Ready to get certified and start your CNA career in Chicago Heights? 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 Heights? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Lansing, Kankakee, Westmont, Maywood, and Blue Island, 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 Heights (2 facilities)
2 nursing homes in Chicago Heights providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
Facility Details
Facility Details
Home Health Agencies Hiring CNAs in Chicago Heights (2 facilities)
2 home health agencies in Chicago Heights providing CNA career opportunities. Source: CMS home health agencies (July 2025)
Facility Details
Facility Details
Requirements to Work as a CNA in Chicago Heights, IL
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Chicago Heights, 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 Heights 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 Heights
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Chicago Heights?
Most CNA programs in Chicago Heights 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 Heights?
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 Heights?
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 Heights?
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 Heights?
Yes, some schools in Chicago Heights 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 Heights there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Lansing, Kankakee, Westmont, Maywood, and Blue Island. 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 Heights?
CNAs in Chicago Heights 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.