CNA Programs & Career Opportunities in Kansas
Kansas is home to 45 CNA training programs and over 540 healthcare facilities. Our guide currently highlights 17 cities, where we cover all local CNA programs and a selection of healthcare facilities. Explore CNA classes, salary information, and career opportunities to learn more about becoming a CNA in Kansas.
Get Information from CNA Programs in Kansas
- Major Cities for CNA Careers in Kansas
- Training & Certification Requirements in Kansas
- Explore CNA Classes by City in Kansas
- Free CNA Classes in Kansas
- Online CNA Classes in Kansas
- 4-Week CNA Classes in Kansas
- Evening Classes in Kansas
- Weekend Classes in Kansas
- Prepare for Your CNA Exam in Kansas
- Salary & Job Outlook as a CNA in Kansas
- Salary Overview by Area
- Frequently Asked Questions
Starting your CNA Career in Kansas
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Training Programs45State-approved Programs
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Cities17Cities Currently Covered
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Healthcare Facilities540+Total Facilities
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Median Annual Salary$35,450Median Yearly Pay
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Median Hourly Salary$17.04Median Per Hour
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Total CNAs Employed22,290CNAs Working Statewide
With 45 state-approved CNA training programs, Kansas offers accessible opportunities to begin a career in healthcare. Programs are available across major communities including Wichita, Overland Park, Kansas City, Olathe, Topeka, and Lenexa, as well as in many smaller cities and rural areas throughout the state. Currently, approximately 22,290 Certified Nurse Aides are employed across Kansas, reflecting steady demand for qualified healthcare professionals. CNAs in Kansas earn a median annual wage of $35,450, or about $17.04 per hour, providing a practical entry point into the healthcare workforce.
Home to more than 2.97 million residents, Kansas maintains consistent demand for skilled healthcare workers at every level. From major health systems such as University of Kansas Health System, AdventHealth Shawnee Mission, Stormont Vail Health, Ascension Via Christi, and Wesley Healthcare to hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home health agencies statewide, Certified Nurse Aides play an essential role in supporting patient care across both urban centers and rural communities throughout the state.
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Major Cities for CNA Careers in Kansas
Explore CNA opportunities in Kansas's largest cities and metropolitan areas.
Training & Certification Requirements in Kansas
Before starting your training, it's important to know exactly what Kansas requires to become a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA). Meeting these standards ensures you're eligible to test, be placed on the state registry, and work in approved healthcare settings.
Eligibility
- Age requirement: Candidates must be at least 16 years old to enroll in a Kansas-approved CNA training program. Individuals aged 16 or 17 require signed parental or guardian consent.
- Program enrollment (NATCEP): You must complete a Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS)–approved Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP). Programs are offered through community colleges, technical schools, adult education providers, and licensed nursing facilities.
- Background check: CNA candidates must meet Kansas background screening requirements prior to clinical placement or employment. Individuals with substantiated findings of abuse, neglect, or misappropriation of property are not eligible for placement on the Nurse Aide Registry.
- Good standing: Employers are required to verify Nurse Aide Registry status prior to employment in licensed facilities.
Training Hours & Clinicals
Kansas requires a minimum of 90 total hours of nurse aide training divided into two parts. Part I includes 20 hours of classroom instruction and 20 hours of laboratory or clinical training. Part II includes 25 hours of advanced classroom instruction and 25 hours of supervised clinical training in a licensed adult care home. At least half of each part must consist of supervised clinical training. The curriculum covers all federally required OBRA topics, including communication, infection control, residents' rights, safety and emergency procedures, basic nursing skills, and personal care.
Before providing any direct resident care, trainees must complete at least 16 hours of instruction in core safety and care topics. In accordance with federal rules, Medicare- or Medicaid-certified nursing facilities may employ nurse aide trainees for up to 120 days while training and testing requirements are completed; beyond this period, individuals must be fully certified and listed on the Kansas Nurse Aide Registry.
Competency Exam (Knowledge & Skills)
After completing training, candidates must pass the Kansas Nurse Aide Competency Examination, administered through KDADS-approved test sites including community colleges and technical schools across Kansas. The exam includes:
- Knowledge test: A 100 multiple-choice question written exam covering nurse aide fundamentals such as infection control, safety, residents' rights, communication, and personal care. Candidates have 2 hours to complete the exam and must score at least 75% to pass. An oral version may be available for eligible candidates.
- Skills evaluation: Demonstration of five randomly selected nurse aide skills performed in approximately 30 minutes, including mandatory hand hygiene and required critical steps. All critical elements must be performed correctly to pass.
Candidates must pass both the knowledge and skills components to become certified. Kansas allows up to three attempts to pass the competency examination within 12 months of starting training. Candidates who do not pass within the allowed attempts must complete a new KDADS-approved training program before retesting.
Placement on the Registry & Working as a CNA
Once both exam components are successfully passed, your name is added to the Kansas Nurse Aide Registry, maintained by the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services – Health Occupations Credentialing (KDADS-HOC). Testing results are transmitted electronically to KDADS. You may then work as a CNA in nursing homes, hospitals, home health agencies, and other licensed healthcare settings throughout Kansas.
Renewal
Kansas CNA certification must be renewed every 24 months. To remain active on the registry, CNAs must have performed at least 8 hours of paid nursing-related services under the supervision of a licensed nurse during the preceding 24-month period. Individuals who do not meet the work requirement may complete a 10-hour refresher course or an RN-administered skills checklist to return to active status.
Reciprocity
Kansas allows registry-based reciprocity for CNAs certified in other U.S. states. Applicants must hold an active certification in good standing and provide verification that their training and competency evaluation met federal OBRA requirements. Out-of-state CNAs must pass the Kansas Nurse Aide Competency Examination to be added to the Kansas registry. Interstate applicants have one attempt to pass the exam; if unsuccessful, they must complete a Kansas-approved training program.
Costs
Kansas CNA exam fees vary by test site. KDADS charges a $20 application fee, with additional testing site fees ranging from approximately $38-$45. Under federal law, Medicare- or Medicaid-certified nursing facilities must pay for or reimburse nurse aide training and testing costs for individuals they employ or have offered employment to, provided the individual is hired within 12 months of completing training.
Sources: Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services — Health Occupations Credentialing, KDADS — Kansas Nurse Aide Registry, 42 CFR 483.152 — Federal Nurse Aide Training Requirements
Explore CNA Classes by City in Kansas
Explore CNA classes in Kansas by city. We currently feature 17 cities, each with a full list of CNA training courses, salary details, and selected healthcare facilities.
Online CNA Classes in Kansas
These 12 programs offer CNA classes online in Kansas, giving you the flexibility to complete the classroom portion remotely. However, all CNA programs also require in-person clinical training, which must be completed at an approved healthcare facility before certification.
Bethel House Training Institute
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Allied Health Career Training LLC
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JCCC Health Occupations Dept
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We Care Online LLC
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Kansas College of Nursing Lenexa
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Manhattan Area Technical College
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Trinity Career Institute
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Delores Homes Training Center
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Fort Hays Tech/North Central
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Cloud Co Community College
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4-Week CNA Classes in Kansas
These 10 programs offer accelerated CNA training in Kansas, typically ranging from 3-5 weeks, with 4-week programs being the most common. Accelerated CNA classes are one of the fastest ways to become a CNA in Kansas, making them ideal if you want to start your healthcare career quickly.
WSU Tech
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Bethel House Training Institute
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Neyang School of Nursing
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JCCC Health Occupations Dept
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Kansas College of Nursing Lenexa
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Vital Academy LLC
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Trinity Career Institute
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Fort Hays Tech/North Central
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Barton Community College
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Flint Hills Technical College
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Evening Classes in Kansas
These 10 programs offer evening CNA classes in Kansas, designed for working professionals and those with daytime commitments. Evening classes typically run after 5 PM on weekdays, allowing you to maintain your current schedule while pursuing CNA certification.
WSU Tech
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Salina Area Tech College
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Washburn Institute of Technology
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Bethel House Training Institute
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JCCC Health Occupations Dept
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Kansas College of Nursing Lenexa
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Vital Academy LLC
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Trinity Career Institute
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Delores Homes Training Center
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Barton Community College
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Weekend Classes in Kansas
These 5 programs offer weekend CNA classes in Kansas, perfect for those who work Monday through Friday. Weekend programs typically meet on Saturdays and/or Sundays, allowing you to complete your CNA training without disrupting your weekday work schedule.
Bethel House Training Institute
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Neyang School of Nursing
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JCCC Health Occupations Dept
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Kansas College of Nursing Lenexa
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Delores Homes Training Center
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Prepare for Your CNA Exam in Kansas
Once you're enrolled in a CNA program, the next step is preparing for your state competency exam. Use these free study resources from The CNA Guide to review the clinical skills and knowledge tested on the Kansas CNA exam.
Free CNA Study Guide
Step-by-step training for the core CNA clinical skills, from hand washing and vital signs to transfers and personal care. Each skill page explains the procedure, what examiners look for, and common mistakes to avoid.
Start studying →Free CNA Practice Tests
Four timed practice tests with over 300 questions covering physical care, psychosocial care, and the role of the nurse aide.
Take a practice test →Salary & Job Outlook as a CNA in Kansas
Kansas offers a stable job market for Certified Nurse Aides, with employment opportunities available across long-term care, hospitals, and home health settings. More than 22,290 CNAs currently work throughout the state, supported by over 547 healthcare facilities. According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Kansas has approximately 303 nursing homes, 136 hospitals, and 108 home health agencies that regularly employ CNAs. While CMS data may not include every licensed healthcare provider, it demonstrates the broad range of employment opportunities available across Kansas.
Salary Overview
The median annual income for all workers in Kansas is approximately $45,250, or $21.76 per hour. Certified Nurse Aides earn a median annual income of $35,450, or about $17.04 per hour. Although CNA wages are below the statewide median for all occupations, the role offers a practical entry point into healthcare with opportunities to advance into higher-paying careers such as Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Registered Nurse (RN), or other allied health professions.
Job Outlook
The outlook for Certified Nurse Aides in Kansas remains stable. With 22,290 CNAs employed statewide and hundreds of healthcare facilities serving both urban and rural communities, demand is expected to remain steady as Kansas's population ages and healthcare needs continue to grow.
Major healthcare employers—including University of Kansas Health System, AdventHealth Shawnee Mission, Stormont Vail Health, Ascension Via Christi, and Wesley Healthcare—regularly hire CNAs across hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, and long-term care settings. In addition, many experienced CNAs continue into LPN and RN programs, creating ongoing turnover and consistent entry-level job openings throughout the state.
If you are considering this career path, explore our directory of CNA training programs in Kansas or learn more about certification and registry placement in our CNA License & Registration guide.
Why Become a CNA in Kansas?
Becoming a CNA in Kansas provides a relatively quick pathway into the healthcare workforce. State-approved training programs can often be completed within a few weeks, allowing students to begin working sooner than many other healthcare professions. With more than 303 nursing homes, a statewide hospital network, and a growing need for long-term care services, Kansas offers a variety of employment settings for new CNAs. Many community colleges, technical colleges, and adult education providers also offer approved CNA programs, making certification an accessible first step toward careers such as LPN or RN.
CNA Salaries across Kansas
CNA salaries in Kansas vary by location, with larger metropolitan areas such as the Kansas City metro, Wichita, Topeka, and Lawrence often offering higher wages than smaller communities and rural regions. Factors such as employer type, experience, shift differentials, and local demand all influence earnings. Below is a breakdown of CNA salaries across different regions of Kansas.
Sources: BLS OEWS (May 2023), CMS Nursing Homes, CMS Hospitals, CMS Home Health Agencies
CNA Salary by Area in Kansas
Compare CNA salaries across different metropolitan areas and regions in Kansas. Salary data includes both annual and hourly wages for nursing assistants.
| Area | Annual salary | Hourly salary |
|---|---|---|
| Kansas (statewide) | $35,450 | $17.04 |
| Lawrence | $35,630 | $17.13 |
| Manhattan | $34,670 | $16.67 |
| Topeka | $36,230 | $17.42 |
| Wichita | $35,060 | $16.85 |
Source: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
Frequently Asked Questions about CNA Classes in Kansas
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Kansas?
In Kansas, CNA programs require a minimum of 90 hours of training, which includes 45 hours of clinical practice. Most students complete their training in 4–12 weeks, depending on whether they choose a full-time, part-time, or accelerated program schedule.
How much does CNA training cost in Kansas?
CNA classes in Kansas generally cost between $800 and $1,500. Some programs may be more expensive at private schools, while community colleges and healthcare providers often offer lower-cost options. Employers may also cover tuition in exchange for a work commitment.
Are there free CNA classes in Kansas?
Yes. Many nursing homes, hospitals, and state workforce programs in Kansas offer free CNA training. These are often employer-sponsored programs where you agree to work for the facility after completing training and certification.
Are online CNA programs available in Kansas?
Several schools in Kansas offer hybrid CNA programs that combine online coursework with in-person clinical training. While theory can often be completed online, state rules require that clinical skills be performed in a supervised, hands-on healthcare setting.
Are accelerated (4-week) CNA programs available in Kansas?
Yes, some schools and healthcare providers in Kansas offer accelerated CNA programs that can be completed in as little as 4 weeks. These programs are intensive and best for students who can commit to full-time study and clinical practice.
How do I become a CNA in Kansas?
To become a CNA in Kansas, you must complete a state-approved training program, pass the Kansas Nurse Aide Test, and be listed on the Kansas Nurse Aide Registry. The process is overseen by the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS).
How can I study for the CNA exam in Kansas?
Use our free CNA study guide to review the core CNA clinical skills, including hand washing, vital signs, transfers, and personal care. You can also take our free CNA practice tests, which include over 300 questions covering physical care, psychosocial care, and the role of the nurse aide.
I’m a CNA in another state. Can I transfer my license to Kansas?
Yes. Kansas allows CNAs certified in other states to transfer their license through reciprocity. This process places you on the Kansas Nurse Aide Registry without retaking training. Learn more in our guide to CNA License Reciprocity in Kansas.
How often do I need to renew my CNA license in Kansas?
CNAs in Kansas must renew their certification every 24 months. To remain active on the registry, you must work at least one documented day (8 consecutive hours) of paid employment in an approved healthcare setting during that period. See our CNA License & Registration page for renewal details.
How can I check if my CNA license is active in Kansas?
You can verify your status on the Kansas Nurse Aide Registry online. For step-by-step instructions, visit our guide on CNA License & Registration in Kansas.
How much do CNAs earn in Kansas?
The median CNA salary in Kansas is $35,450 per year, or about $17.04 per hour. Pay can vary by region, employer, and years of experience. Many CNAs in Kansas also use the role as a stepping stone to LPN or RN careers.
Where do CNAs work in Kansas?
Certified Nursing Assistants in Kansas work in hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, assisted living facilities, and home health agencies. Opportunities are widely available across both urban and rural areas.
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.