CNA Classes & Programs in Altoona, Wisconsin
Get Information from CNA Programs in Altoona and Nearby
Aspiring CNAs in Altoona can choose from 3 approved CNA programs tailored toward starting a career in patient care roles within Eau Claire County’s growing communities. This western Wisconsin city supports new entrants into healthcare through classroom learning opportunities designed with state standards in mind—including both free and online class options when available locally.
CNA courses here feature flexible formats, including one free option, online learning opportunities, and an accelerated study track ideal for those wanting quicker certification results. Students benefit from hands-on preparation that aligns with regional employer expectations while developing essential caregiving skills under supervision at nearby facilities such as Grace Lutheran Communities - River Pines or Oakwood Health Services.
In Eau Claire, CNAs earn around $37,470 annually based on recent wage data sources; actual compensation may vary slightly by employer type or prior experience but provides a helpful reference point when considering future roles after completing a chosen program path.
Quick Facts About Altoona
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Population8,506Residents
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CNA Programs3State-approved Programs
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Median Income$77,002Median Annual Income
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CNA Hourly Rate$18.02Median Hourly Rate
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CNA Yearly Salary$37,470Median Annual Salary
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Facilities3CMS Healthcare Facilities2 Nursing Homes • 1 Hospital
Get Information from CNA Programs in Altoona and Nearby
Schools in Altoona and nearby are actively seeking qualified students. Fill out one quick form below to receive information directly from multiple accredited CNA programs.
You'll receive information about:
- Upcoming start dates & schedules
- Tuition costs & financial aid options
- Class locations & formats
- Program details & requirements
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Browse CNA Classes in Altoona
Altoona offers 3 CNA training programs that prepare students for Wisconsin certification through diverse options such as online classes, accelerated schedules, and even free training when available. Each program equips participants with essential skills required for success on exams while meeting regional healthcare demand, with career opportunities available for certified assistants throughout Altoona’s medical community.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: available in Altoona through various funding sources including employer sponsorship and grants.
Accelerated programs: available in Altoona and are usually 4-week programs, sometimes 3 or 5 weeks.
Online programs: Some classes in Altoona offer online coursework combined with local clinical training.
The Classics at Hillcrest Greens
Program Details
Grace Lutheran Foundation
Program Details
Altoona High School
Program Details
CNA Employment Opportunities in Altoona
CNA Salary Information
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Annual Salary$37,470Median Yearly Pay
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Hourly Rate$18.02Median Per Hour
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Available Jobs960CNA Positions
CNA jobs in Altoona remain consistent as regional hospitals and long-term care centers continue recruiting trained professionals who have completed approved nurse aide courses and achieved state licensure after passing required examinations.
In the Eau Claire region, approximately 960 CNAs are employed across varied settings according to BLS OEWS (May 2023) data. The median annual CNA salary is $37,470, translating to about $18.02 per hour; this figure can fluctuate depending on specific workplace environments or additional qualifications held by employees within Eau Claire County’s network of providers.
The area features three notable CMS-certified employers: Grace Lutheran Communities - River Pines (a non-profit facility with 50 beds), Oakwood Health Services (an 80-bed corporate-owned center), and Oakleaf Surgical Hospital—a physician-owned acute care hospital providing specialized surgical services. These facilities offer varied employment settings where newly certified nurse aides can launch their careers post-graduation from Altoona-based programs.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Ready to get certified and start your CNA career in Altoona? 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 Altoona? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Chippewa Falls, Eau Claire, Arcadia, Weston, and Bloomer, or browse the Wisconsin 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 Altoona (2 facilities)
2 nursing homes in Altoona providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
Facility Details
Facility Details
Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Altoona (1 facilities)
1 hospital in Altoona offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
Facility Details
Requirements to Work as a CNA in Altoona, WI
To work as a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) in Altoona, you must meet the statewide CNA requirements set by Wisconsin. These include completing a Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS)–approved Nurse Aide Training Program, passing the state competency examination administered by D&SDT-Headmaster, and being listed on the Wisconsin Nurse Aide Registry.
- At least 75 total hours of training, including a minimum of 16 hours of supervised clinical experience
- Completion of the first 16 hours of classroom instruction before any direct client contact
- Passing both the knowledge test (75 questions, 60 minutes, 71% to pass) and the skills evaluation (randomly selected skills scored by a state-approved examiner)
- Passing both components within one year of completing training, with unlimited retakes during that period before a new training program is required
- Placement on the Wisconsin Nurse Aide Registry, administered through Headmaster's TestMaster Universe (TMU)
Once certified, you may work in nursing homes, hospitals, home health agencies, hospices, and other licensed healthcare settings throughout Altoona and across Wisconsin. To maintain federal work eligibility, CNAs must perform at least 8 hours of paid nursing or nursing-related services every 24 months; those who do not must retake and pass both exam components, though Wisconsin does not require full retraining.
Already certified in another state? Wisconsin offers registry-based reciprocity for out-of-state nurse aides who are active and in good standing. Applicants must document completion of a state-approved training program of at least 75 hours or qualifying employment (at least 2,088 hours in the two preceding years), submitted through Wisconsin's Headmaster system. Learn more in our CNA License Reciprocity in Wisconsin guide.
For complete details on training, testing, renewal, and maintaining certification, see our full CNA License & Registration in Wisconsin 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 Altoona
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Altoona?
Most CNA programs in Altoona 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 Altoona?
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 Altoona?
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 Altoona?
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 Altoona?
Yes, some schools in Altoona 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 Altoona there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Chippewa Falls, Eau Claire, Arcadia, Weston, and Bloomer. You can also look at the Wisconsin state page to find more.
How do I get listed on the Wisconsin CNA registry?
To work as a CNA in Wisconsin, you must be added to the official state registry. See our Wisconsin CNA registry guide for step-by-step instructions.
Where do CNAs work in Altoona?
CNAs in Altoona 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.