CNA Classes & Programs in Waukegan, Illinois
1 state-approved CNA program in Waukegan, including online, evening and weekend options. Free and 4-week programs are offered in other Illinois cities.
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CNA training in Waukegan
- Programs
- 1
- state-approved
- Median CNA pay
- $41,600
- $20.00 an hour
- CNA jobs
- 41,870
- in the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin region
- Healthcare facilities
- 5
- 3 nursing homes and 2 hospitals
- Population
- 89,435
- residents
Sources: BLS OEWS (May 2023), CMS (July 2025).
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What brings you here?
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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.
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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.
Program Types in Waukegan
| Type | In Waukegan | Where to look |
|---|---|---|
| Free or employer-paid | Not in Waukegan | See other Illinois cities → |
| 4-week (accelerated) | Not in Waukegan | See other Illinois cities → |
| Online or hybrid | 1 program | College of Lake County - Lakeshore Campus ↓ |
| Evening or weekend | 1 program | College of Lake County - Lakeshore Campus ↓ |
A program can appear under more than one type. Counts come from each program's published details.
The CNA program in Waukegan
College of Lake County - Lakeshore Campus
Cost$1,225Hours–Weeks8
- Address
- 34 N Sheridan Rd, Waukegan, IL 60085
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (847) 543-2191
- Schedule
- Evening and weekend classes
CLC’s 7-credit Nurse Assisting (NUR 110) provides classroom, lab and clinical training to build core CNA skills, with cohorts available days, evenings, weekends and in blended formats across campuses. Program length is typically 2–4 months.
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.
CNA Programs Near Waukegan
Looking for more options near Waukegan?
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Explore CNA Programs in Other Cities
Major Illinois cities
- Chicago30 programs
- Aurora4 programs
- Joliet2 programs
- Naperville1 program
- Rockford3 programs
- Springfield6 programs
CNA Employment Opportunities in Waukegan
| Median annual pay | $41,600 |
|---|---|
| Median hourly pay | $20.00 |
| CNA jobs in the region | 41,870 |
| Salary region | Chicago-Naperville-Elgin |
Source: BLS OEWS (May 2023), median wages for nursing assistants.
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.
Nursing Homes Hiring CNAs in Waukegan (3 facilities)
3 nursing homes in Waukegan 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Pavilion Of Waukegan2217 Washington Street(847) 244-4100Map | 112 | 1.9 |
| The Terrace1615 Sunset Avenue(847) 244-6700Map | 115 | 1.6 |
| Elevate Care Waukegan2222 Audrey Nixon Boulevard(847) 249-2400Map | 265 | 1.5 |
Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Waukegan (2 facilities)
2 hospitals in Waukegan offering CNA employment opportunities. Showing top 2 facilities ranked by overall rating (as provided by official data). Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
| Hospital | Rating |
|---|---|
| Vista Medical Center EastAcute Care Hospitals · 1324 North Sheridan Road(847) 360-3000Map | 2/5 |
| Lake Behavioral HospitalPsychiatric · 2615 W Washington St(847) 249-3900Map | – |
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 Waukegan? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Gurnee, Vernon Hills, Grayslake, Lake Forest, and Addison, 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 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
Ready to start? Get info from CNA schools in Waukegan.
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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. The shortest published length here is 8 weeks, at College of Lake County - Lakeshore Campus.
How much does CNA training cost in Waukegan?
College of Lake County - Lakeshore Campus lists a price of $1,225. Some schools and healthcare employers may cover the cost or reimburse you after hiring.
Are there free CNA classes in Waukegan?
No program in Waukegan 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 Waukegan?
Yes. College of Lake County - Lakeshore Campus offers a hybrid option, with online coursework and in-person clinical training at local healthcare facilities.
Are there any 4-week CNA classes in Waukegan?
No 4-week program is listed in Waukegan. 4-week CNA programs are offered in other Illinois cities, usually in 3 to 5 weeks.
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 Gurnee, Vernon Hills, Grayslake, Lake Forest and Addison. 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. CMS lists 3 nursing homes and 2 hospitals in Waukegan. 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.