CNA Classes & Programs in Altoona, Wisconsin
3 state-approved CNA programs in Altoona, including free, online and 4-week options.
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CNA training in Altoona
- Programs
- 3
- state-approved
- Median CNA pay
- $37,470
- $18.02 an hour
- CNA jobs
- 960
- in the Eau Claire region
- Healthcare facilities
- 3
- 2 nursing homes and 1 hospital
- Population
- 8,506
- residents
Sources: BLS OEWS (May 2023), CMS (July 2025).
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What brings you here?
Free to use. No obligation to enroll. Compare multiple programs. We may earn a fee when you request information from schools.
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.
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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.
Program Types in Altoona
| Type | In Altoona | Where to look |
|---|---|---|
| Free or employer-paid | 1 program | Grace Lutheran Foundation ↓ |
| 4-week (accelerated) | 1 program | Grace Lutheran Foundation ↓ |
| Online or hybrid | 1 program | Grace Lutheran Foundation ↓ |
| Evening or weekend | Not in Altoona | See other Wisconsin cities → |
A program can appear under more than one type. Counts come from each program's published details.
All 3 CNA programs in Altoona
Lowest published cost first.
Grace Lutheran Foundation
CostFreeHours85Weeks4
- Address
- 286 N Wilson Dr, Altoona, WI 54720
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (715) 832-3003
Grace Lutheran Foundation offers a state-approved 85-hour blended CNA course with online theory, in-person skills lab, and clinical practice. Current employees may enroll at no cost.
Visit websiteAltoona High School
Cost–Hours120Weeks–
- Address
- 711 7th St W, Altoona, WI 54720
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (715) 833-6300
Dual‑credit CNA course for grades 11–12 in partnership with CVTC, totaling 120 hours (60 classroom/lab and 60 clinical). A 50 fee covers scrubs, watch, and workbook.
Visit websiteThe Classics at Hillcrest Greens
Cost–Hours–Weeks–
- Address
- 2455 Sawgrass Pl, Altoona, WI 54720
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (715) 864-1033
The Classics at Hillcrest Greens is a state-approved CNA training provider. Contact them directly for program details and enrollment information.
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 3 programs fits you?
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Explore CNA Programs in Other Cities
Nearby cities
Major Wisconsin cities
- Milwaukee28 programs
- Madison14 programs
- Green Bay8 programs
- Kenosha4 programs
- Racine1 program
- Appleton3 programs
CNA Employment Opportunities in Altoona
| Median annual pay | $37,470 |
|---|---|
| Median hourly pay | $18.02 |
| CNA jobs in the region | 960 |
| Salary region | Eau Claire |
Source: BLS OEWS (May 2023), median wages for nursing assistants.
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.
Nursing Homes Hiring CNAs in Altoona (2 facilities)
2 nursing homes in Altoona providing CNA employment opportunities. Showing top 2 facilities ranked by CNA hours per resident per day (as provided by official data). Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
| Nursing home | Beds | CNA hrs/day |
|---|---|---|
| Grace Lutheran Communities - River Pines206 N Willson Dr(715) 598-7800Map | 50 | 2.7 |
| Oakwood Health Services2512 New Pine Dr(715) 833-0400Map | 80 | 1.9 |
Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Altoona (1 facility)
1 hospital in Altoona offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
| Hospital | Rating |
|---|---|
| Oakleaf Surgical HospitalAcute Care Hospitals · 1000 Oakleaf Way(715) 831-8130Map | – |
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 Altoona? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Augusta, Eau Claire, Chippewa Falls, Arcadia, and Mondovi, 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.
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
Ready to start? Get info from CNA schools in Altoona.
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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. The shortest published length here is 4 weeks, at Grace Lutheran Foundation.
How much does CNA training cost in Altoona?
Prices differ by school, so ask the CNA programs in Altoona 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 Altoona?
Yes. Grace Lutheran Foundation 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 Altoona?
Yes. Grace Lutheran Foundation offers a hybrid option, with online coursework and in-person clinical training at local healthcare facilities.
Are there any 4-week CNA classes in Altoona?
Yes. Grace Lutheran Foundation is an accelerated program. Accelerated programs usually take 3 to 5 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 Augusta, Eau Claire, Chippewa Falls, Arcadia and Mondovi. 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. CMS lists 2 nursing homes and 1 hospital in Altoona. 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.