CNA Classes & Programs in Peoria, Illinois
Get Information from CNA Programs in Peoria and Nearby
Peoria is home to 2 CNA programs designed for those looking to enter Illinois’ healthcare workforce as certified nursing assistants. Situated along the Illinois River and serving as a regional medical hub downstate, Peoria offers approved training pathways that help students meet state requirements while accessing practical learning environments close to home.
CNA courses available here focus on preparing candidates thoroughly for certification through classroom lessons paired with hands-on experiences at local clinical sites or partner facilities. One free program option exists—making it possible for eligible residents to pursue their goals without tuition barriers while gaining essential caregiving skills valued by Peoria’s employers across multiple settings.
In Peoria itself, CNAs earn around $36,930 annually according to regional data; this figure provides useful guidance when considering potential earnings after completion of local training programs.
Quick Facts About Peoria
-
Population113,054Residents
-
CNA Programs2State-approved Programs
-
Median Income$58,068Median Annual Income
-
CNA Hourly Rate$17.76Median Hourly Rate
-
CNA Yearly Salary$36,930Median Annual Salary
-
Facilities13CMS Healthcare Facilities8 Nursing Homes • 3 Hospitals • 2 Home Health Agencies
Get Information from CNA Programs in Peoria and Nearby
Schools in Peoria 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
✓ Free Service • ✓ No Obligations • ✓ Compare Multiple Programs • ✓ Accredited Schools Only
Browse CNA Classes in Peoria
Available in Peoria are 2 CNA classes—including one free program—that train students specifically for Illinois CNA certification requirements while supporting future job readiness where CNAs are needed locally. Each Peoria-based training program enables participants to qualify quickly through skill-building curriculum focused on exam success and workplace preparedness across diverse healthcare environments nearby.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: available in Peoria through various funding sources including employer sponsorship and grants.
Accelerated programs: not available in Peoria but are offered in other cities throughout Illinois.
Online programs not available in Peoria but are offered in other cities throughout Illinois.
Accolade of Peoria
Program Details
Woodruff Career & Technical Center
Program Details
CNA Employment Opportunities in Peoria
CNA Salary Information
-
Annual Salary$36,930Median Yearly Pay
-
Hourly Rate$17.76Median Per Hour
-
Available Jobs3,320CNA Positions
The Peoria region employs approximately 3,320 certified nursing assistants throughout its network of acute-care hospitals, skilled nursing homes, and proprietary home health providers serving residents across central Illinois’ riverfront cityscape. Consistent demand ensures ongoing opportunities both inside major institutions and community-based organizations dedicated to patient support services.
CNA salary in Peoria is reflective of current market conditions: In Peoria, CNAs earn a median of $36,930 annually or about $17.76 per hour based on BLS OEWS (May 2023) figures. This amount is modestly below the statewide median ($39,510) but represents a solid starting point given cost-of-living considerations locally; wages may vary depending on facility type or shift differentials among employers throughout greater Peoria County.
Nursing professionals may seek employment at Apostolic Christian Skylines—a nonprofit church-related facility known locally—or Lutheran Hillside Village (nonprofit corporation; over 100 beds). Sharon Health Care Elms provides additional options among private corporations while Proctor Hospital stands out as a voluntary non-profit acute-care institution alongside Saint Francis Medical Center—a key hospital system presence—and Methodist Medical Center Of Illinois under Carle Health System management oversight. Local home health opportunities exist at St Francis Medical Center's proprietary agency or Iris Home Health Services, broadening prospects beyond institutional walls via CMS-certified providers active throughout Peoria’s urban neighborhoods.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Ready to get certified and start your CNA career in Peoria? Fill out one quick form to get program details and start dates from accredited schools in your area.
✓ Free Service • ✓ No Obligations • ✓ Compare Multiple Programs • ✓ Accredited Schools Only
Working in Nearby Cities
Looking beyond Peoria? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Pekin, Galesburg, Bloomington, Normal, and Springfield, 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 Peoria (8 facilities)
8 nursing homes in Peoria providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
Facility Details
Facility Details
Facility Details
Facility Details
Facility Details
Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Peoria (3 facilities)
3 hospitals in Peoria offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
Facility Details
Facility Details
Methodist Medical Center Of Illinois
Facility Details
Home Health Agencies Hiring CNAs in Peoria (2 facilities)
2 home health agencies in Peoria providing CNA career opportunities. Source: CMS home health agencies (July 2025)
Facility Details
Iris Home Health Services, Llc
Facility Details
Requirements to Work as a CNA in Peoria, IL
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Peoria, 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 Peoria 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 Peoria
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Peoria?
Most CNA programs in Peoria 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 Peoria?
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 Peoria?
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 Peoria?
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 Peoria?
Yes, some schools in Peoria 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 Peoria there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Pekin, Galesburg, Bloomington, Normal, and Springfield. 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 Peoria?
CNAs in Peoria 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.