CNA Classes & Programs in Pekin, Illinois
Get Information from CNA Programs in Pekin and Nearby
In Pekin, 3 state-approved CNA classes are available to help individuals begin their journey toward a healthcare career. Located near the heart of Central Illinois, Pekin offers aspiring nursing assistants several options that prepare them for entry-level roles through formal training programs recognized by the state.
Pekin's CNA programs cover a range of learning needs: from traditional classroom instruction to an online option and an accelerated 4-week program designed for those who wish to enter the workforce quickly. Local healthcare settings such as Timbercreek Rehab & Healthcare Center and Pekin Memorial Hospital provide practical employment opportunities once certification is achieved through these programs.
In the Peoria region, which includes Pekin, CNAs earn around $36,930 annually—slightly below the statewide median salary in Illinois. Graduates can expect varied job prospects at area hospitals and nursing homes after completing their CNA courses.
Quick Facts About Pekin
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Population32,075Residents
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CNA Programs3State-approved Programs
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Median Income$52,507Median Annual Income
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CNA Hourly Rate$17.76Median Hourly Rate
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CNA Yearly Salary$36,930Median Annual Salary
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Facilities4CMS Healthcare Facilities3 Nursing Homes • 1 Hospital
Get Information from CNA Programs in Pekin and Nearby
Schools in Pekin 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 Pekin
Pekin provides 3 CNA training programs that prepare students for Illinois CNA certification through flexible options, including an accelerated 4-week class and an online learning format. Each program equips participants with practical skills needed for success on the state registry and supports employment readiness for CNA roles in the Pekin area. Graduates are prepared for rewarding healthcare positions locally.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: not available in Pekin, but free classes are available in other cities throughout Illinois.
Accelerated programs: available in Pekin and are usually 4-week programs, sometimes 3 or 5 weeks.
Online programs: Some classes in Pekin offer online coursework combined with local clinical training.
Illinois Central College - Pekin High School
Program Details
River Academy of Vocational Education
Program Details
Illinois Central College - Pekin Campus
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CNA Employment Opportunities in Pekin
CNA Salary Information
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Annual Salary$36,930Median Yearly Pay
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Hourly Rate$17.76Median Per Hour
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Available Jobs3,320CNA Positions
CNA jobs in Pekin are supported by steady demand within hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities throughout the Peoria region. Approximately 3,320 CNAs are employed in the area, offering opportunities for newly certified nursing assistants to start or advance their careers in diverse care environments.
In the Peoria region, CNAs earn around $36,930 annually (about $17.76 per hour), according to BLS OEWS (May 2023). This median salary is slightly below Illinois’ statewide figure of $39,510 and reflects local market conditions specific to this metro area’s workforce needs.
Pekin’s major CMS-certified employers include Timbercreek Rehab & Healthcare Center—a 202-bed facility—Hallmark Healthcare of Pekin, Pekin Manor, and Pekin Memorial Hospital, a key acute care provider. These facilities offer significant job opportunities for CNAs seeking patient care roles in the community.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Ready to get certified and start your CNA career in Pekin? 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 Pekin? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Peoria, Galesburg, Springfield, Normal, 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 Pekin (3 facilities)
3 nursing homes in Pekin providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
Facility Details
Pekin Manor
Facility Details
Facility Details
Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Pekin (1 facilities)
1 hospital in Pekin offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
Facility Details
Requirements to Work as a CNA in Pekin, IL
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Pekin, 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 Pekin 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 Pekin
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Pekin?
Most CNA programs in Pekin 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 Pekin?
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 Pekin?
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 Pekin?
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 Pekin?
Yes, some schools in Pekin 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 Pekin there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Peoria, Galesburg, Springfield, Normal, 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 Pekin?
CNAs in Pekin 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.