CNA Classes & Programs in Ava, Missouri
2 state-approved CNA programs in Ava, including free options. 4-week and online programs are offered in other Missouri cities.
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CNA training in Ava
- Programs
- 2
- state-approved
- Median CNA pay
- $36,260
- $17.43 an hour
- CNA jobs
- 29,340
- across Missouri
- Healthcare facilities
- 1
- 1 nursing home
- Population
- 2,933
- residents
Sources: BLS OEWS (May 2023), CMS (July 2025).
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What brings you here?
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Ava offers 2 CNA programs aimed at preparing individuals for entry-level roles within Douglas County's healthcare landscape. This southern Missouri town provides accessible pathways into nursing assistant careers through approved training courses aligned with state requirements. Statewide in Missouri, CNAs earn around $36,260 each year based on current labor statistics—figures used when city-level wage information isn’t available.
The local programs equip students with practical knowledge needed both to pass certification exams and serve residents at facilities such as Heart of the Ozarks Healthcare Center—a key provider of skilled nursing services nearby—through hands-on experiences during coursework completion. Those seeking affordable options may find value in Ava's free CNA classes offered locally.
No online or accelerated programs are currently listed among Ava’s offerings; however, both available courses focus on helping candidates achieve Missouri certification while developing job readiness skills valued by area employers looking to hire trained CNAs soon after graduation.
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Browse CNA Classes in Ava
Ava provides 2 CNA training programs—including one free option—that enable students to pursue Missouri certification while building foundational patient care skills required by local employers. These CNA classes prepare participants both academically and clinically so they’re ready for registry placement and can seek jobs across Ava’s healthcare settings, where qualified nurse aides continue to be valued members of care teams.
Program Types in Ava
| Type | In Ava | Where to look |
|---|---|---|
| Free or employer-paid | 1 program | Heart Of The Ozarks Healthcare Center ↓ |
| 4-week (accelerated) | Not in Ava | See other Missouri cities → |
| Online or hybrid | Not in Ava | See other Missouri cities → |
| Evening or weekend | Not in Ava | See other Missouri cities → |
A program can appear under more than one type. Counts come from each program's published details.
Both CNA programs in Ava
Lowest published cost first.
Heart Of The Ozarks Healthcare Center
CostFreeHours–Weeks–
- Address
- 2004 Crestview St, Ava, MO 65608
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (417) 683-4129
Heart of the Ozarks Healthcare Center pays the cost of CNA training and certification for new hires.
Visit websiteAva High School
Cost–Hours–Weeks–
- Address
- 507 N Spring Street, Ava, MO 65608
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (417) 683-5747
Ava High School indicates a Health Occupations (CNA) course offered on campus for students. Interested students should contact the school for current details on schedules and requirements.
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.
Not sure which of the 2 programs fits you?
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Explore CNA Programs in Other Cities
Nearby cities
Major Missouri cities
- Kansas City8 programs
- St. Louis15 programs
- Springfield12 programs
- Columbia6 programs
- Independence3 programs
- Lee's Summit3 programs
CNA Employment Opportunities in Ava
| Median annual pay | $36,260 |
|---|---|
| Median hourly pay | $17.43 |
| CNA jobs across Missouri | 29,340 |
| Salary region | Missouri (statewide) |
Source: BLS OEWS (May 2023), median wages for nursing assistants.
CNA jobs in Ava remain consistently available due to ongoing demand from residential care providers seeking qualified staff members able to deliver essential daily support services. While exact job counts are not released specifically for Ava itself, new graduates typically encounter hiring opportunities soon after earning their credentials thanks to steady workforce needs seen across similar rural towns statewide.
CNA salary in Ava cannot be determined using city-only data since these figures are not published separately; instead, prospective nurse aides should reference current benchmarks reported at the state level: according to BLS OEWS (May 2023), CNAs employed anywhere within Missouri make approximately $36,260 per year (about $17.43 hourly). City-specific wage details are not available—statewide data remains the best guidance currently offered when estimating pay expectations locally.
Ava features Heart of the Ozarks Healthcare Center—a CMS-certified skilled nursing facility with 120 beds—as one major employer of certified nurse aides within Douglas County’s health system landscape. This center operates under limited liability company ownership while supporting over seventy residents on average every day through a range of patient-centered services provided by trained staff members, including new graduates from area programs.
Nursing Homes Hiring CNAs in Ava (1 facility)
1 nursing home in Ava providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
| Nursing home | Beds | CNA hrs/day |
|---|---|---|
| Heart Of The Ozarks Healthcare Center2004 Crestview Street(417) 683-4129Map | 120 | 2.3 |
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 Ava? Explore CNA programs and jobs in West Plains, Gainesville, Cabool, Seymour, and Mansfield, or browse the Missouri 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 Ava, MO
To work as a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) in Ava, you must meet the statewide CNA requirements set by Missouri. These include completing a Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS)–approved Certified Nurse Assistant training program, passing the state competency examination administered by D&SDT-Headmaster, and being listed on the Missouri CNA Registry.
- Completion of at least 175 total hours of CNA training (75 classroom hours and 100 supervised clinical hours)
- Completion of 16 hours of required instruction before any direct resident care
- Background screening compliance per Missouri requirements
- Passing both the written knowledge test (75 questions, 60 minutes) and the skills evaluation (five randomly selected skills including mandatory hand washing)
- Up to three total exam attempts within 90 days of the first failed exam attempt; both exam portions must be completed within six months of training completion
- Placement on the Missouri CNA Registry after successfully passing the competency examination
Once certified, you can work in nursing homes, hospitals, assisted living facilities, rehabilitation centers, and home health agencies throughout Ava and across Missouri. CNAs must perform at least one day (eight hours) of paid nursing-related services every 24 months to maintain active certification.
Already certified in another state? Missouri offers interstate endorsement (reciprocity) for CNAs who are active and in good standing in another U.S. state. Applicants must provide verification that their training and competency evaluation met federal OBRA requirements. Learn more in our CNA License Reciprocity in Missouri guide.
For complete details on training, testing, renewal, and maintaining certification, see our full CNA License & Registration in Missouri 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 Ava.
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Frequently Asked Questions about CNA Classes in Ava
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Ava?
Most CNA programs in Ava 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 Ava?
Prices differ by school, so ask the CNA programs in Ava directly for their current costs. One program is free or employer-paid. Some schools and healthcare employers may cover the cost or reimburse you after hiring.
Are there free CNA classes in Ava?
Yes. Heart Of The Ozarks Healthcare Center offers free or employer-paid CNA training. Some hospitals, nursing homes, and workforce programs may also offer free CNA training in exchange for a work commitment.
Are there online CNA training options available in Ava?
No program in Ava is listed with online classes. Online and hybrid programs are offered in other Missouri cities. Clinical training is always in person.
Are there any 4-week CNA classes in Ava?
No 4-week program is listed in Ava. 4-week CNA programs are offered in other Missouri cities, usually in 3 to 5 weeks.
Which nearby cities are there for CNA classes and job opportunities?
Near Ava there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as West Plains, Gainesville, Cabool, Seymour and Mansfield. You can also look at the Missouri state page to find more.
How do I get listed on the Missouri CNA registry?
To work as a CNA in Missouri, you must be added to the official state registry. See our Missouri CNA registry guide for step-by-step instructions.
Where do CNAs work in Ava?
CNAs in Ava are employed in hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, and other healthcare facilities. CMS lists 1 nursing home in Ava. 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.