CNA Classes & Programs in Rockford, Illinois
Get Information from CNA Programs in Rockford and Nearby
Rockford offers 3 CNA programs, providing aspiring nursing assistants with several pathways to start their healthcare careers. Located in northern Illinois, Rockford is known for its diverse medical community and access to state-approved training options. Prospective students can explore different types of CNA classes that fit their scheduling and certification needs.
Those interested in entering the field will find both online and accelerated options available, making it possible to complete required coursework with greater flexibility. CNA programs in Rockford are designed to prepare students for Illinois state certification and help them build essential clinical and patient care skills. Local healthcare facilities, including hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies, often hire graduates from these programs.
In Rockford, CNAs earn around $37,420 annually according to recent data for the region. With multiple accredited CNA training programs to choose from, individuals can pursue certification and connect with job opportunities throughout the city.
Quick Facts About Rockford
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Population148,173Residents
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CNA Programs3State-approved Programs
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Median Income$50,744Median Annual Income
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CNA Hourly Rate$17.99Median Hourly Rate
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CNA Yearly Salary$37,420Median Annual Salary
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Facilities19CMS Healthcare Facilities12 Nursing Homes • 3 Hospitals • 4 Home Health Agencies
Get Information from CNA Programs in Rockford and Nearby
Schools in Rockford 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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Browse CNA Classes in Rockford
Students in Rockford can choose from 3 CNA programs, including online and accelerated training options that prepare graduates for Illinois state certification. These CNA classes equip students with essential skills and knowledge needed for success on the state exam and future employment. With local demand for CNAs, completing a Rockford CNA training program helps launch a rewarding healthcare career.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: not available in Rockford, but free classes are available in other cities throughout Illinois.
Accelerated programs: available in Rockford and are usually 4-week programs, sometimes 3 or 5 weeks.
Online programs: Some classes in Rockford offer online coursework combined with local clinical training.
Illinois Institute of Nursing Studies
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Rockford Public Schools
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Rock Valley College
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CNA Employment Opportunities in Rockford
CNA Salary Information
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Annual Salary$37,420Median Yearly Pay
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Hourly Rate$17.99Median Per Hour
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Available Jobs1,810CNA Positions
In the Rockford region, approximately 1,810 CNAs are employed across various healthcare settings. This employment figure reflects the strong demand for certified nursing assistants within the area’s hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and home health agencies. The steady presence of CNAs highlights ongoing opportunities for those seeking direct patient care roles in this part of Illinois.
CNA salary in Rockford remains in line with regional conditions compared to other parts of the state. In the Rockford area, CNAs earn a median of $37,420 per year (or $17.99 per hour), according to BLS OEWS (May 2023) data. This median wage is slightly below the statewide median of $39,510 and reflects typical compensation for entry-level healthcare professionals seeking stable employment in this region.
Healthcare employers hiring CNAs in Rockford include Alpine Fireside Health Center—a 66-bed facility—and River Bluff Nursing Home with 304 beds and county government ownership. Major hospitals such as UW Health (formerly SwedishAmerican), Javon Bea Hospital, and Saint Anthony Medical Center also employ CNAs across acute care settings. Additionally, Able Home Health provides proprietary home health services within the city. These CMS-certified facilities collectively contribute to a range of career opportunities for newly certified CNAs.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Ready to get certified and start your CNA career in Rockford? 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 Rockford? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Freeport, Waukegan, Bartlett, Crystal Lake, and Streamwood, 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 Rockford (12 facilities)
12 nursing homes in Rockford providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
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Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Rockford (3 facilities)
3 hospitals in Rockford offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
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Saint Anthony Medical Center
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Home Health Agencies Hiring CNAs in Rockford (4 facilities)
4 home health agencies in Rockford providing CNA career opportunities. Source: CMS home health agencies (July 2025)
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Mercyhealth At Home
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Requirements to Work as a CNA in Rockford, IL
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Rockford, 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 Rockford 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 Rockford
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Rockford?
Most CNA programs in Rockford 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 Rockford?
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 Rockford?
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 Rockford?
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 Rockford?
Yes, some schools in Rockford 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 Rockford there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Freeport, Waukegan, Bartlett, Crystal Lake, and Streamwood. 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 Rockford?
CNAs in Rockford 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.