CNA Classes & Programs in Normal, Illinois
2 state-approved CNA programs in Normal, including 4-week options. Free and online programs are offered in other Illinois cities.
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CNA training in Normal
- Programs
- 2
- state-approved
- Median CNA pay
- $37,090
- $17.83 an hour
- CNA jobs
- 820
- in the Bloomington region
- Healthcare facilities
- 4
- 3 nursing homes and 1 hospital
- Population
- 52,920
- residents
Sources: BLS OEWS (May 2023), CMS (July 2025).
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What brings you here?
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Normal is home to 2 CNA programs, offering aspiring nursing assistants a solid foundation for state certification in a vibrant college-town setting. Whether you are new to healthcare or seeking a career change, these programs provide essential preparation for CNA roles in various settings. With options tailored to different learning needs, Normal supports those ready to pursue a rewarding path in patient care.
In addition to traditional options, both CNA programs in Normal offer accelerated coursework, allowing students to complete their training more quickly. Graduates can expect to find employment opportunities at facilities such as Mclean County Nursing Home or Carle Bromenn Medical Center, contributing vital services to the community. This makes Normal an accessible place for starting a healthcare career.
In the Bloomington region, CNAs earn around $37,090 annually. These figures provide helpful context for those considering CNA training programs in Normal and reflect regional compensation trends for nursing assistants.
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Browse CNA Classes in Normal
Normal provides 2 CNA training programs that prepare students for Illinois state certification and entry into the workforce. Both options offer accelerated coursework, supporting those who seek faster routes into patient care careers. Graduates are qualified for placement on the state registry, with local demand for CNAs creating steady career opportunities in healthcare throughout Normal and the surrounding area.
Program Types in Normal
| Type | In Normal | Where to look |
|---|---|---|
| Free or employer-paid | Not in Normal | See other Illinois cities → |
| 4-week (accelerated) | 2 programs | See them ↓ |
| Online or hybrid | Not in Normal | See other Illinois cities → |
| Evening or weekend | Not in Normal | 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 Normal
Lowest published cost first.
Heartland Community College
Cost$1,344Hours140Weeks8
- Address
- 1500 W Raab Road, Normal, IL 61761
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (309) 268-8000
State-approved 8-credit CNA program with 90 hours of theory/lab and 50 hours of clinical at area facilities. Offered in 16-week and accelerated 8-week formats.
Visit websiteCarepaks Health Services
Cost$1,800Hours134Weeks6
- Address
- 209 Susan Drive, Normal, IL 61761
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (309) 454-1000
Carepaks offers a 6‑week CNA program totaling 134 hours combining classroom and clinical training, with CPR certification included. Tuition covers textbooks, administrative and background check fees.
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.
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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 Normal
| Median annual pay | $37,090 |
|---|---|
| Median hourly pay | $17.83 |
| CNA jobs in the region | 820 |
| Salary region | Bloomington |
Source: BLS OEWS (May 2023), median wages for nursing assistants.
In the Bloomington region, approximately 820 certified nursing assistants are employed across various healthcare settings. The steady need for CNAs reflects ongoing demand from both long-term care providers and acute care facilities in this part of Illinois. CNA jobs in Normal typically offer prospects consistent with the broader regional market.
CNA salary in Normal aligns closely with regional data. In the Bloomington area, CNAs earn around $37,090 per year (about $17.83 per hour), according to BLS OEWS (May 2023). This median salary is somewhat below the statewide median of $39,510 and reflects local economic conditions and cost of living factors specific to this metro area.
Major employers of CNAs in Normal include Mclean County Nursing Home, a CMS-certified facility with 148 beds; Loft Rehab & Nursing of Normal; and Arc at Normal. Acute care positions can be found at Carle Bromenn Medical Center, an established hospital serving the area. These institutions represent key opportunities for those entering the workforce after completing CNA classes locally.
Nursing Homes Hiring CNAs in Normal (3 facilities)
3 nursing homes in Normal providing CNA employment opportunities. Showing top 3 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Mclean County Nursing Home901 North Main(309) 888-5380Map | 148 | 2.6 |
| Loft Rehab & Nursing Of Normal510 Broadway(309) 452-4406Map | 116 | 2.0 |
| Arc At Normal509 North Adelaide(309) 452-7468Map | 141 | 1.9 |
Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Normal (1 facility)
1 hospital in Normal offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
| Hospital | Rating |
|---|---|
| Carle Bromenn Medical CenterAcute Care Hospitals · 1304 Franklin Avenue(309) 454-1400Map | 3/5 |
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 Normal? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Bloomington, Metamora, Fairbury, Roanoke, and East Peoria, 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 Normal, IL
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Normal, 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 Normal 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 Normal.
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Frequently Asked Questions about CNA Classes in Normal
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Normal?
Most CNA programs in Normal can be completed in 4–12 weeks, depending on whether you choose a traditional, accelerated, or weekend schedule. Accelerated programs, such as Heartland Community College, usually take 3 to 5 weeks.
How much does CNA training cost in Normal?
CNA programs in Normal cost between $1,344 and $1,800, depending on the school. The lowest-priced paid option is Heartland Community College at $1,344. Some schools and healthcare employers may cover the cost or reimburse you after hiring.
Are there free CNA classes in Normal?
No program in Normal 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 Normal?
No program in Normal 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 Normal?
Yes. 2 programs in Normal are accelerated. Accelerated programs usually take 3 to 5 weeks, depending on class schedules and clinical requirements.
Which nearby cities are there for CNA classes and job opportunities?
Near Normal there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Bloomington, Metamora, Fairbury, Roanoke and East Peoria. 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 Normal?
CNAs in Normal are employed in hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, and other healthcare facilities. CMS lists 3 nursing homes and 1 hospital in Normal. 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.