CNA Classes & Programs in Waukegan, Illinois
Get Information from CNA Programs in Waukegan and Nearby
Waukegan is home to 1 CNA program designed to prepare individuals for entry-level roles in healthcare. As a city on Lake Michigan and part of the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin metro area, Waukegan provides aspiring nursing assistants with opportunities to start their training close to home. Those interested in flexible learning can benefit from the availability of online classes.
Local CNA programs focus on foundational patient care skills and meeting the requirements for Illinois state certification. Graduates often pursue positions at area hospitals or nursing homes, which are among the largest employers of CNAs in Waukegan. In the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin metro area, CNAs earn around $41,600 per year, which is above the statewide median of approximately $39,510. This regional salary data helps prospective students gauge local earning potential.
CNA classes in Waukegan not only support certification but also help build confidence and job readiness for those entering healthcare. Whether seeking a first career or a new direction, local CNA training programs provide a structured path toward working in the region’s medical facilities.
Quick Facts About Waukegan
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Population89,435Residents
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CNA Programs1State-approved Programs
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Median Income$66,077Median Annual Income
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CNA Hourly Rate$20.00Median Hourly Rate
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CNA Yearly Salary$41,600Median Annual Salary
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Facilities5CMS Healthcare Facilities3 Nursing Homes • 2 Hospitals
Get Information from CNA Programs in Waukegan and Nearby
Schools in Waukegan 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
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Browse CNA Classes in Waukegan
Students in Waukegan can choose from 1 CNA program, including an online training option that prepares candidates for Illinois state certification. This CNA training program equips students with essential patient care skills and supports successful placement on the state registry. With local demand for CNAs across healthcare settings, completing this program enables graduates to pursue job opportunities and begin their careers as certified nursing assistants.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: not available in Waukegan, but free classes are available in other cities throughout Illinois.
Accelerated programs: not available in Waukegan but are offered in other cities throughout Illinois.
Online programs: Some classes in Waukegan offer online coursework combined with local clinical training.
College of Lake County - Lakeshore Campus
Program Details
CNA Employment Opportunities in Waukegan
CNA Salary Information
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Annual Salary$41,600Median Yearly Pay
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Hourly Rate$20.00Median Per Hour
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Available Jobs41,870CNA Positions
In the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin region, approximately 41,870 CNAs are employed according to recent data. The need for qualified nursing assistants remains steady throughout the metro area, as hospitals and long-term care facilities consistently seek certified staff to support patient care needs. CNA jobs in Waukegan are available across these settings.
The CNA salary in Waukegan reflects regional trends: In the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin metro area, CNAs earn around $41,600 annually (about $20 per hour), based on BLS OEWS (May 2023) data. This figure stands above the Illinois statewide median of $39,510 per year, providing a positive outlook for those considering entry into this field locally.
Healthcare employment options for CNAs in Waukegan span multiple facility types. Major employers include Pavilion of Waukegan (112 beds) and Elevate Care Waukegan (265 beds), both CMS-certified nursing homes serving large resident populations. The Terrace is another notable facility with 115 beds. Hospital opportunities exist at Vista Medical Center East, an acute care hospital offering emergency services and birthing care, as well as Lake Behavioral Hospital specializing in psychiatric services. These facilities collectively contribute to ongoing demand for trained CNAs 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 Waukegan? 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 Waukegan? Explore CNA programs and jobs in McHenry, Vernon Hills, Woodstock, Westmont, and South Elgin, 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 Waukegan (3 facilities)
3 nursing homes in Waukegan providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
Facility Details
Facility Details
Facility Details
Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Waukegan (2 facilities)
2 hospitals in Waukegan offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
Facility Details
Facility Details
Requirements to Work as a CNA in Waukegan, IL
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Waukegan, 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 Waukegan 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 Waukegan
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Waukegan?
Most CNA programs in Waukegan 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 Waukegan?
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 Waukegan?
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 Waukegan?
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 Waukegan?
Yes, some schools in Waukegan 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 Waukegan there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as McHenry, Vernon Hills, Woodstock, Westmont, and South Elgin. 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 Waukegan?
CNAs in Waukegan 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.