CNA Classes & Programs in Decatur, Illinois
Get Information from CNA Programs in Decatur and Nearby
Decatur is home to 2 CNA programs designed for individuals seeking entry into the healthcare field. As a city with a population of over 70,000 in central Illinois, Decatur offers a supportive environment for those starting their nursing assistant careers. The programs are structured to provide foundational skills and knowledge that prepare students for state certification and future employment.
Students enrolling in CNA classes in Decatur benefit from proximity to multiple healthcare employers, including five nursing homes and two local hospitals. These facilities offer clinical training sites and potential job opportunities after graduation. In Decatur, CNAs earn around $39,050 annually according to recent data, providing a useful benchmark for those considering this career path within the city.
While there are currently no online or free CNA classes available in Decatur, both local programs are state-approved and focus on preparing students for Illinois CNA certification. Graduates are well-positioned to pursue positions at area facilities or continue their professional development within the region.
Quick Facts About Decatur
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Population70,975Residents
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CNA Programs2State-approved Programs
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Median Income$49,039Median Annual Income
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CNA Hourly Rate$18.78Median Hourly Rate
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CNA Yearly Salary$39,050Median Annual Salary
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Facilities7CMS Healthcare Facilities5 Nursing Homes • 2 Hospitals
Get Information from CNA Programs in Decatur and Nearby
Schools in Decatur and nearby are actively seeking qualified students. Fill out one quick form below to receive information directly from multiple accredited CNA programs.
You'll receive information about:
- Upcoming start dates & schedules
- Tuition costs & financial aid options
- Class locations & formats
- Program details & requirements
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Browse CNA Classes in Decatur
Students in Decatur can choose from 2 CNA programs that prepare them for Illinois state certification. These CNA classes equip students with essential patient care skills and practical knowledge needed for success in healthcare environments. Each program is designed to support job readiness and meet local demand for certified nursing assistants across various clinical settings.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: not available in Decatur, but free classes are available in other cities throughout Illinois.
Accelerated programs: not available in Decatur but are offered in other cities throughout Illinois.
Online programs not available in Decatur but are offered in other cities throughout Illinois.
Richland Community College
Program Details
Rotalbly's Nursing Institute
Program Details
CNA Employment Opportunities in Decatur
CNA Salary Information
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Annual Salary$39,050Median Yearly Pay
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Hourly Rate$18.78Median Per Hour
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Available Jobs580CNA Positions
CNA jobs in Decatur are supported by approximately 580 employed nursing assistants across a range of healthcare settings, according to BLS OEWS (May 2023) data. The demand for certified nursing assistants remains steady as local facilities require trained professionals to provide essential care to residents and patients throughout the city.
The CNA salary in Decatur reflects the current compensation landscape for nursing assistants within the area. According to BLS OEWS (May 2023), CNAs in Decatur earn a median annual salary of $39,050, with a median hourly wage of $18.78. This figure is just below the statewide median of $39,510 for Illinois. Local salary data provides insight for those considering a career as a CNA in this region.
Healthcare employers in Decatur include several notable CMS-certified facilities such as Fair Havens Senior Living (154 beds), Loft Rehab Of Decatur (150 beds), and Loft Rehab Of Rock Springs, The (195 beds). Major hospitals like Decatur Memorial Hospital and St Marys Hospital also play significant roles in employing CNAs locally. These organizations offer varied work environments and contribute to the city's ongoing need for skilled nursing assistants.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Ready to get certified and start your CNA career in Decatur? 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 Decatur? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Springfield, Pekin, Champaign, Urbana, and Bloomington, 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 Decatur (5 facilities)
5 nursing homes in Decatur providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
Facility Details
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Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Decatur (2 facilities)
2 hospitals in Decatur offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
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Requirements to Work as a CNA in Decatur, IL
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Decatur, 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 Decatur 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 Decatur
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Decatur?
Most CNA programs in Decatur 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 Decatur?
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 Decatur?
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 Decatur?
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 Decatur?
Yes, some schools in Decatur 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 Decatur there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Springfield, Pekin, Champaign, Urbana, and Bloomington. 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 Decatur?
CNAs in Decatur 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.