CNA Classes & Programs in Dubuque, Iowa
Get Information from CNA Programs in Dubuque and Nearby
Dubuque is home to 2 CNA programs designed for those looking to start their careers in patient care. Positioned along the Mississippi River and recognized as a regional hub in eastern Iowa, Dubuque offers accessible education options for aspiring certified nursing assistants.
Local candidates can choose from traditional or free CNA classes, each structured to prepare students thoroughly for certification requirements in Iowa. In Dubuque, CNAs earn around $38,860 annually—this figure reflects local wage conditions according to BLS OEWS (May 2023), which is above the statewide figure of around $37,340. Hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies across Dubuque employ newly certified graduates each year.
CNA programs in Dubuque focus on practical skills development while supporting candidates through the certification process. Graduates enter a workforce where their skills are valued by employers throughout this riverfront city.
Quick Facts About Dubuque
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Population59,315Residents
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CNA Programs2State-approved Programs
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Median Income$63,520Median Annual Income
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CNA Hourly Rate$18.68Median Hourly Rate
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CNA Yearly Salary$38,860Median Annual Salary
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Facilities13CMS Healthcare Facilities8 Nursing Homes • 2 Hospitals • 3 Home Health Agencies
Get Information from CNA Programs in Dubuque and Nearby
Schools in Dubuque 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 Dubuque
Dubuque offers 2 CNA programs that prepare students for Iowa CNA certification, including free training opportunities. These CNA classes provide hands-on experience and foundational knowledge required for success on state exams and entry into local healthcare roles. Graduates complete their training ready for certification and employment in settings where CNAs are needed throughout Dubuque.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: available in Dubuque through various funding sources including employer sponsorship and grants.
Accelerated programs: not available in Dubuque but are offered in other cities throughout Iowa.
Online programs not available in Dubuque but are offered in other cities throughout Iowa.
Stonehill Francis Services
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Mount Carmel Bluffs
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CNA Employment Opportunities in Dubuque
CNA Salary Information
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Annual Salary$38,860Median Yearly Pay
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Hourly Rate$18.68Median Per Hour
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Available Jobs790CNA Positions
CNA jobs in Dubuque are available across various healthcare environments such as hospitals, long-term care centers, and home health agencies. Local employers regularly seek certified assistants to support patient care needs within this regional hub along the Mississippi River.
The median CNA salary in Dubuque is approximately $38,860 per year (about $18.68 per hour), according to BLS OEWS (May 2023). This figure exceeds the statewide median of $37,340, offering a slightly higher earning potential compared to other areas within Iowa. The competitive wages reflect both local demand and cost of living factors specific to Dubuque's healthcare sector.
Dubuque features several notable CMS-certified employers that hire CNAs. Facilities include Mount Carmel Bluffs—a 60-bed nursing facility; Luther Manor at Hillcrest with over 100 beds; Bethany Home; Stonehill Care Center—a larger option with 185 beds; Sunnycrest Manor operated by county government; MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center; Finley Hospital; UnityPoint at Home; Open Arms Home Health Care; and Universal Pediatrics. These organizations offer diverse employment settings 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 Dubuque? 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 Dubuque? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Maquoketa, Bellevue, Peosta, Edgewood, and Waukon, or browse the Iowa 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 Dubuque (8 facilities)
8 nursing homes in Dubuque providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
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Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Dubuque (2 facilities)
2 hospitals in Dubuque offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
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Home Health Agencies Hiring CNAs in Dubuque (3 facilities)
3 home health agencies in Dubuque providing CNA career opportunities. Source: CMS home health agencies (July 2025)
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Open Arms Home Health Care, L L C
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Universal Pediatrics
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Requirements to Work as a CNA in Dubuque, IA
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Dubuque, you must meet the statewide CNA requirements set by Iowa. These include completing an Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL)–approved 75-hour nurse aide training course, passing the written and skills competency examinations, and being placed on the Iowa Direct Care Worker (DCW) Registry.
- At least 75 total hours of training, including at least 30 hours of supervised clinical training — or challenging the competency examination without first completing the course, as Iowa allows
- Completion of 16 hours of required instruction before any direct resident care
- Passing both the written knowledge exam (70 questions, 60 minutes, 70% to pass) and the in-person skills exam, with up to three attempts on each
- Written exam offered through Headmaster (TMU) or Credentia; skills exam taken in person at a community college or approved provider
- Placement on the Iowa Direct Care Worker (DCW) Registry maintained by DIAL, with a six-digit registry number
Once placed on the registry, you may work as a CNA in nursing homes, skilled nursing facilities, and other Iowa long-term care settings throughout Dubuque and across Iowa. Iowa's CNA certification does not expire, but to keep active registry status you must perform at least 8 hours of paid nursing or nursing-related work every 24 months, reported to DIAL by an Iowa employer.
Already certified in another state? Iowa offers registry-based reciprocity for CNAs active and in good standing on another state's registry. Applicants apply through the Iowa DCW Registry's online system, where DIAL verifies their out-of-state registry information, and may then work in Iowa nursing facilities without repeating Iowa's training and testing pathway. Learn more in our CNA License Reciprocity in Iowa guide.
For complete details on training, testing, maintaining active registry status, and reciprocity, see our full CNA License & Registration in Iowa 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 Dubuque
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Dubuque?
Most CNA programs in Dubuque 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 Dubuque?
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 Dubuque?
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 Dubuque?
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 Dubuque?
Yes, some schools in Dubuque 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 Dubuque there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Maquoketa, Bellevue, Peosta, Edgewood, and Waukon. You can also look at the Iowa state page to find more.
How do I get listed on the Iowa CNA registry?
To work as a CNA in Iowa, you must be added to the official state registry. See our Iowa CNA registry guide for step-by-step instructions.
Where do CNAs work in Dubuque?
CNAs in Dubuque 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.