CNA Classes & Programs in Pekin, Illinois
3 state-approved CNA programs in Pekin, including online, 4-week, evening and weekend options. Free programs are offered in other Illinois cities.
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CNA training in Pekin
- Programs
- 3
- state-approved
- Median CNA pay
- $36,930
- $17.76 an hour
- CNA jobs
- 3,320
- in the Peoria region
- Healthcare facilities
- 4
- 3 nursing homes and 1 hospital
- Population
- 32,075
- residents
Sources: BLS OEWS (May 2023), CMS (July 2025).
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What brings you here?
Free to use. No obligation to enroll. Compare multiple programs. We may earn a fee when you request information from schools.
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.
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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.
Program Types in Pekin
| Type | In Pekin | Where to look |
|---|---|---|
| Free or employer-paid | Not in Pekin | See other Illinois cities → |
| 4-week (accelerated) | 1 program | River Academy of Vocational Education ↓ |
| Online or hybrid | 1 program | River Academy of Vocational Education ↓ |
| Evening or weekend | 1 program | River Academy of Vocational Education ↓ |
A program can appear under more than one type. Counts come from each program's published details.
All 3 CNA programs in Pekin
Lowest published cost first.
Illinois Central College - Pekin Campus
Cost$1,120Hours–Weeks–
- Address
- 225 Hanna Dr, Pekin, IL 61554
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (309) 353-5088
ICC’s CNA certificate can be completed in about one semester (7 credit hours), with small class sizes and clinical training. The 2025-26 estimated tuition is 1120 plus supplies and fees.
Visit websiteIllinois Central College - Pekin High School
Cost$1,120Hours–Weeks–
- Address
- 320 Stadium Drive, Pekin, IL 61554
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (309) 347-4101
Pekin Community High School partners with Illinois Central College to offer a CNA certificate with classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience for high school students. ICC notes partnerships with area high schools for this program.
Visit websiteRiver Academy of Vocational Education
Cost$1,270Hours116Weeks7
- Address
- 328 S. 4th Street Suite B, Pekin, IL 61554
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (309) 650-2474
- Schedule
- Evening and weekend classes
River Academy offers traditional and hybrid CNA classes with day and evening options; tuition includes books, uniform, equipment, and the state exam fee.
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 Pekin
| Median annual pay | $36,930 |
|---|---|
| Median hourly pay | $17.76 |
| CNA jobs in the region | 3,320 |
| Salary region | Peoria |
Source: BLS OEWS (May 2023), median wages for nursing assistants.
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.
Nursing Homes Hiring CNAs in Pekin (3 facilities)
3 nursing homes in Pekin 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Timbercreek Rehab & Healthcare Center2220 State Street(309) 347-1110Map | 202 | 2.6 |
| Pekin Manor1520 El Camino DriveMap | 130 | 2.6 |
| Hallmark Healthcare Of Pekin2501 Allentown Road(309) 347-3121Map | 71 | 1.7 |
Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Pekin (1 facility)
1 hospital in Pekin offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
| Hospital | Rating |
|---|---|
| Pekin Memorial HospitalAcute Care Hospitals · 600 South 13Th Street(309) 347-1151Map | 2/5 |
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 Pekin? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Morton, Peoria, East Peoria, Lacon, and Canton, 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 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
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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. Accelerated programs, such as River Academy of Vocational Education, usually take 3 to 5 weeks.
How much does CNA training cost in Pekin?
CNA programs in Pekin cost between $1,120 and $1,270, depending on the school. The lowest-priced paid option is Illinois Central College - Pekin Campus at $1,120. Some schools and healthcare employers may cover the cost or reimburse you after hiring.
Are there free CNA classes in Pekin?
No program in Pekin 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 Pekin?
Yes. River Academy of Vocational Education offers a hybrid option, with online coursework and in-person clinical training at local healthcare facilities.
Are there any 4-week CNA classes in Pekin?
Yes. River Academy of Vocational Education is an accelerated program. 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 Pekin there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Morton, Peoria, East Peoria, Lacon and Canton. 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. CMS lists 3 nursing homes and 1 hospital in Pekin. 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.