CNA Classes & Programs in Decatur, Illinois
2 state-approved CNA programs in Decatur. Free, 4-week and online programs are offered in other Illinois cities.
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CNA training in Decatur
- Programs
- 2
- state-approved
- Median CNA pay
- $39,050
- $18.78 an hour
- CNA jobs
- 580
- in the Decatur region
- Healthcare facilities
- 7
- 5 nursing homes and 2 hospitals
- Population
- 70,975
- residents
Sources: BLS OEWS (May 2023), CMS (July 2025).
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What brings you here?
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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.
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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.
Program Types in Decatur
| Type | In Decatur | Where to look |
|---|---|---|
| Free or employer-paid | Not in Decatur | See other Illinois cities → |
| 4-week (accelerated) | Not in Decatur | See other Illinois cities → |
| Online or hybrid | Not in Decatur | See other Illinois cities → |
| Evening or weekend | Not in Decatur | See other Illinois cities → |
A program can appear under more than one type. Counts come from each program's published details.
Both CNA programs in Decatur
Lowest published cost first.
Richland Community College
Cost$1,448Hours142Weeks–
- Address
- One College Park, Decatur, IL 62521
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (217) 875-7200
Richland’s Nurse Assistant/Aide basic certificate provides IDPH-approved classroom, lab, and clinical training. The HLTH 141 course is 8 credits and totals 142 contact hours.
Visit websiteRotalbly's Nursing Institute
Cost$2,200Hours120Weeks6
- Address
- 2560 E. Federal Drive Suite 703, Decatur, IL 62526
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (217) 872-4050
Rotalbly’s Basic Nursing Assistant course lists 120 total hours with classroom weeks followed by clinicals, taught by an RN instructor. The catalog notes a typical 6–12 week timeline with classroom Monday–Friday and clinical rotations thereafter.
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.
Not sure which of the 2 programs fits you?
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Explore CNA Programs in Other Cities
Nearby cities
Major Illinois cities
- Chicago30 programs
- Aurora4 programs
- Joliet2 programs
- Naperville1 program
- Rockford3 programs
- Springfield6 programs
CNA Employment Opportunities in Decatur
| Median annual pay | $39,050 |
|---|---|
| Median hourly pay | $18.78 |
| CNA jobs in the region | 580 |
| Salary region | Decatur |
Source: BLS OEWS (May 2023), median wages for nursing assistants.
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.
Nursing Homes Hiring CNAs in Decatur (5 facilities)
5 nursing homes in Decatur 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Fair Havens Senior Living1790 South Fairview Avenue(217) 429-2551Map | 154 | 2.5 |
| Imboden Creek Senior Living180 West Imboden(217) 422-6464Map | 95 | 2.1 |
| Loft Rehab Of Decatur500 West Mckinley Avenue(217) 875-0020Map | 150 | 2.0 |
| Loft Rehab Of Rock Springs, The2530 North Monroe Street(217) 875-0920Map | 195 | 1.9 |
| Decatur Rehab & Health Care Ct136 South Dipper Lane(217) 875-0833Map | 58 | – |
Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Decatur (2 facilities)
2 hospitals in Decatur offering CNA employment opportunities. Showing top 2 facilities ranked by overall rating (as provided by official data). Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
| Hospital | Rating |
|---|---|
| Decatur Memorial HospitalAcute Care Hospitals · 2300 North Edward Street(217) 876-8121Map | 3/5 |
| St Marys HospitalAcute Care Hospitals · 1800 E Lake Shore Dr(217) 464-2966Map | 1/5 |
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 Decatur? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Champaign, Shelbyville, Lincoln, Taylorville, and Effingham, 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.
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
Ready to start? Get info from CNA schools in Decatur.
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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. The shortest published length here is 6 weeks, at Rotalbly's Nursing Institute.
How much does CNA training cost in Decatur?
CNA programs in Decatur cost between $1,448 and $2,200, depending on the school. The lowest-priced paid option is Richland Community College at $1,448. Some schools and healthcare employers may cover the cost or reimburse you after hiring.
Are there free CNA classes in Decatur?
No program in Decatur is listed as free. Free CNA classes are offered in other Illinois cities. 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?
No program in Decatur is listed with online classes. Online and hybrid programs are offered in other Illinois cities. Clinical training is always in person.
Are there any 4-week CNA classes in Decatur?
No 4-week program is listed in Decatur. 4-week CNA programs are offered in other Illinois cities, usually in 3 to 5 weeks.
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 Champaign, Shelbyville, Lincoln, Taylorville and Effingham. 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. CMS lists 5 nursing homes and 2 hospitals in Decatur. 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.