CNA Classes & Programs in Salem, Illinois
Get Information from CNA Programs in Salem and Nearby
Salem has 2 CNA programs available for individuals interested in beginning a career as a certified nursing assistant in Illinois. These options offer accessible training for those preparing to meet state certification requirements and contribute to the area’s healthcare sector. Whether starting out or seeking a new direction, CNA classes in Salem help build foundational skills for entry-level healthcare careers.
Students in Salem can select from both in-person and online CNA training programs designed to prepare candidates for Illinois state certification. The presence of local facilities—including nursing homes and a hospital—means CNA graduates have opportunities to apply their skills in real-world settings upon completion. Statewide in Illinois, CNAs earn around $39,510 annually, though actual wages may vary depending on location and employer.
There are currently no free CNA classes or accelerated 4-week options available in Salem. However, the city’s two programs offer practical preparation for those seeking to join the healthcare workforce as certified nursing assistants.
Quick Facts About Salem
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Population7,228Residents
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CNA Programs2State-approved Programs
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Median Income$55,536Median Annual Income
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CNA Hourly Rate$18.99Median Hourly Rate
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CNA Yearly Salary$39,510Median Annual Salary
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Facilities3CMS Healthcare Facilities2 Nursing Homes • 1 Hospital
Get Information from CNA Programs in Salem and Nearby
Schools in Salem 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 Salem
Students in Salem can choose from 2 CNA programs that prepare them for Illinois CNA certification. Both traditional and online options are available, enabling participants to gain essential patient care skills and job readiness. Each CNA training program is designed to qualify graduates for state registry placement with career opportunities in healthcare, meeting regional demand where CNAs are needed.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: currently not available in Illinois.
Accelerated programs: currently not available in Illinois.
Online programs: currently not available in Illinois.
Kaskaskia College Salem Education Center
Program Details
Salem Community High School
Program Details
CNA Employment Opportunities in Salem
CNA Salary Information
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Annual Salary$39,510Median Yearly Pay
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Hourly Rate$18.99Median Per Hour
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Available Jobs62,420CNA Positions
CNA jobs in Salem reflect steady demand within the local healthcare sector. While specific city employment data is not available, many CNAs find positions at area nursing homes and hospitals that serve the community’s diverse needs. With a growing population of older adults and ongoing need for skilled care, certified nursing assistants continue to play an important role throughout the region.
City-specific salary data is not available, so statewide figures provide the best reference. CNAs in Illinois earn around $39,510 per year, or approximately $18.99 per hour, according to BLS OEWS (May 2023). Actual earnings may differ depending on individual employers and experience level, but this statewide median gives a general sense of compensation levels across Illinois.
Major employers of CNAs in Salem include Twin Willows Nursing Center, a 72-bed for-profit facility located on North Broadway, and Doctors Nursing & Rehab Center on Hawthorn Road with 120 beds—both CMS-certified nursing homes. Salem Township Hospital also provides local job opportunities as a critical access hospital serving area residents. These facilities represent key employment centers for new and experienced CNAs seeking positions within Salem’s healthcare network.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Ready to get certified and start your CNA career in Salem? 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 Salem? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Mount Vernon, Centralia, Olney, West Frankfort, and Benton, 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 Salem (2 facilities)
2 nursing homes in Salem providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
Facility Details
Facility Details
Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Salem (1 facilities)
1 hospital in Salem offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
Facility Details
Requirements to Work as a CNA in Salem, IL
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Salem, 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 Salem 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 Salem
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Salem?
Most CNA programs in Salem 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 Salem?
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 Salem?
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 Salem?
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 Salem?
Yes, some schools in Salem 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 Salem there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Mount Vernon, Centralia, Olney, West Frankfort, and Benton. 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 Salem?
CNAs in Salem 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.