CNA Classes & Programs in Des Moines, Washington
Get Information from CNA Programs in Des Moines and Nearby
Des Moines offers 2 state-approved CNA programs designed to help aspiring nursing assistants meet requirements set by Washington State. Prospective students benefit from choices that accommodate individual preferences, including access to online learning formats or accelerated study paths for faster entry into patient care roles within this Seattle-area community.
The city’s CNA classes enable participants to build core skills valued by employers across long-term care facilities and home health agencies located nearby. One program features an online option, while another provides an accelerated track—giving learners flexibility based on their schedules or desired pace toward achieving state certification as a nurse aide.
CNA salaries reflect metro-level trends; in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, annual earnings average $48,440. Graduates completing local CNA courses are well-positioned for employment as new opportunities continue across regional facilities serving diverse patient populations.
Quick Facts About Des Moines
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Population32,667Residents
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CNA Programs2State-approved Programs
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Median Income$81,362Median Annual Income
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CNA Hourly Rate$23.29Median Hourly Rate
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CNA Yearly Salary$48,440Median Annual Salary
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Facilities4CMS Healthcare Facilities3 Nursing Homes • 1 Home Health Agencies
Get Information from CNA Programs in Des Moines and Nearby
Schools in Des Moines 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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Browse CNA Classes in Des Moines
Des Moines offers 2 CNA training programs featuring both online learning and accelerated pathways, allowing students to pursue Washington state registry placement efficiently. Each CNA class focuses on skill development for quick entry into patient-centered roles, supporting individuals preparing for careers where CNAs remain sought after throughout King County’s expanding network of care providers.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: available in Des Moines through various funding sources including employer sponsorship and grants.
Accelerated programs: available in Des Moines and are usually 4-week programs, sometimes 3 or 5 weeks.
Online programs: Some classes in Des Moines offer online coursework combined with local clinical training.
Excel Health Careers Training (Conditional Approval)
Program Details
Highline Community College
Program Details
CNA Employment Opportunities in Des Moines
CNA Salary Information
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Annual Salary$48,440Median Yearly Pay
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Hourly Rate$23.29Median Per Hour
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Available Jobs20,730CNA Positions
CNA jobs in Des Moines are part of the broader Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue region, where approximately 20,730 certified nursing assistants are employed across acute care centers, skilled nursing facilities, assisted living communities, and home health organizations serving King County communities such as Des Moines.
CNA salary in Des Moines reflects metro-level trends: In Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, CNAs earn around $48,440 per year (or $23.29 per hour), according to BLS OEWS (May 2023). This median salary surpasses Washington’s statewide benchmark of $46,000 annually, indicating higher compensation levels typical of large metropolitan areas where competition for skilled staff remains elevated among top employers.
The area features several notable CMS-certified facilities employing newly credentialed CNAs: Judson Park Health Center (96 beds) is recognized as a nonprofit employer; Wesley Homes Des Moines Health Center provides services within a sizable campus offering over 140 beds; Puget Sound Transitional Care adds further skilled nursing options; Wesley Homes At Home delivers reputable home health services with broad reach—collectively representing key destinations where graduates may seek immediate opportunities post-certification within Des Moines’ healthcare landscape.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Working in Nearby Cities
Looking beyond Des Moines? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Bainbridge Island, Tukwila, Enumclaw, Gig Harbor, and Ruston, or browse the Washington 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 Des Moines (3 facilities)
3 nursing homes in Des Moines providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
Facility Details
Facility Details
Facility Details
Home Health Agencies Hiring CNAs in Des Moines (1 facilities)
1 home health agency in Des Moines providing CNA career opportunities. Source: CMS home health agencies (July 2025)
Wesley Homes At Home, Llc
Facility Details
Requirements to Work as a CNA in Des Moines, WA
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Des Moines—designated as Nursing Assistant–Certified (NAC) in Washington—you must meet the statewide requirements set by Washington. These include completing a Washington State Department of Health–approved Nursing Assistant Training Program, passing the state-approved competency examination, and obtaining NAC credentialing from the Department of Health.
- At least 108 total hours of training (35 hours theory, 33 hours skills lab, and 40 hours supervised clinical experience)
- Passing both the knowledge test (70 questions administered by Credentia) and the skills evaluation (five randomly selected skills)
- Up to four total attempts to pass the competency examination before retraining is required
- Background check meeting Washington state requirements prior to clinical placement or employment
- NAC credential issuance by the Department of Health after passing both exam components
- Annual renewal required on or before your birthday
Once credentialed, you may work in nursing homes, hospitals, assisted living facilities, home health agencies, and other licensed healthcare settings throughout Des Moines and across Washington. Healthcare facilities may employ nursing assistant trainees for a limited period while training and testing requirements are completed, in accordance with state and federal rules.
Already certified in another state? Washington offers credentialing by endorsement for out-of-state nursing assistants who are active and in good standing. Applicants must provide verification that their training met federal OBRA requirements and satisfy Washington's background screening requirements. Learn more in our CNA License Reciprocity in Washington guide.
For complete details on training, testing, renewal, and maintaining your NAC credential, see our full CNA License & Registration in Washington 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 Des Moines
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Des Moines?
Most CNA programs in Des Moines 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 Des Moines?
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 Des Moines?
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 Des Moines?
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 Des Moines?
Yes, some schools in Des Moines 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 Des Moines there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Bainbridge Island, Tukwila, Enumclaw, Gig Harbor, and Ruston. You can also look at the Washington state page to find more.
How do I get listed on the Washington CNA registry?
To work as a CNA in Washington, you must be added to the official state registry. See our Washington CNA registry guide for step-by-step instructions.
Where do CNAs work in Des Moines?
CNAs in Des Moines 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.