CNA Classes & Programs in Appleton, Wisconsin
Get Information from CNA Programs in Appleton and Nearby
Aspiring CNAs in Appleton can choose from 3 state-approved CNA programs aimed at preparing students for certification and entry into healthcare careers. This Fox Cities hub offers opportunities for hands-on learning through local training options that help build critical skills needed in patient care settings.
Healthcare employers such as Brewster Village, Ascension NE Wisconsin - St Elizabeth Campus, and Thedacare Regional Medical Center - Appleton Inc contribute to a strong environment for new graduates. In Appleton, CNA programs include online classes and accelerated formats for those seeking flexibility or faster entry into the workforce. Students can select from traditional classroom-based instruction as well as online options based on their needs.
In Appleton, CNAs earn around $38,820 per year according to recent figures. Local facilities offer steady employment prospects for graduates who complete CNA classes and pass their Wisconsin certification exams.
Quick Facts About Appleton
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Population75,133Residents
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CNA Programs3State-approved Programs
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Median Income$75,469Median Annual Income
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CNA Hourly Rate$18.66Median Hourly Rate
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CNA Yearly Salary$38,820Median Annual Salary
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Facilities9CMS Healthcare Facilities5 Nursing Homes • 2 Hospitals • 2 Home Health Agencies
Get Information from CNA Programs in Appleton and Nearby
Schools in Appleton 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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- Upcoming start dates & schedules
- Tuition costs & financial aid options
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- Program details & requirements
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Browse CNA Classes in Appleton
Appleton provides 3 CNA training programs that prepare students for Wisconsin state certification and entry into healthcare careers. Program options include online CNA classes and accelerated 4-week courses designed to fit different schedules, as well as a free CNA program. These programs enable students to qualify for state registry placement while supporting local demand for certified nursing assistants in hospitals and long-term care facilities.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: available in Appleton through various funding sources including employer sponsorship and grants.
Accelerated programs: available in Appleton and are usually 4-week programs, sometimes 3 or 5 weeks.
Online programs: Some classes in Appleton offer online coursework combined with local clinical training.
Edenbrook of Appleton
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Rennes Health and Rehab Center Appleton
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Fox Valley Technical College Appleton
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CNA Employment Opportunities in Appleton
CNA Salary Information
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Annual Salary$38,820Median Yearly Pay
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Hourly Rate$18.66Median Per Hour
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Available Jobs870CNA Positions
About 870 certified nursing assistants (CNAs) are employed in Appleton across various clinical environments. The need for skilled nursing assistants remains steady as local hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies continue recruiting new staff to meet ongoing patient care demands.
The CNA salary in Appleton is around $38,820 annually or $18.66 per hour, based on BLS OEWS (May 2023) data. This is slightly lower than the Wisconsin median of $40,010, reflecting local compensation trends.
Notable CMS-certified employers include Brewster Village—a government-run nursing home with 204 beds—and Rennes Health and Rehab Center-Appleton (88 beds). Acute hospital employers such as Ascension NE Wisconsin - St Elizabeth Campus and Thedacare Regional Medical Center - Appleton provide additional job avenues for CNAs. Home health agencies like Thedacare At Home also represent important employers supporting community-based care delivery throughout Appleton.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Ready to get certified and start your CNA career in Appleton? 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 Appleton? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Green Bay, Oshkosh, West Bend, Stevens Point, and Sheboygan, 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 Appleton (5 facilities)
5 nursing homes in Appleton providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
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Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Appleton (2 facilities)
2 hospitals in Appleton offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
Ascension Ne Wisconsin - St Elizabeth Campus
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Thedacare Regional Medical Center - Appleton Inc
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Home Health Agencies Hiring CNAs in Appleton (2 facilities)
2 home health agencies in Appleton providing CNA career opportunities. Source: CMS home health agencies (July 2025)
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Prn Home Health And Therapy, Llc
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Requirements to Work as a CNA in Appleton, WI
To work as a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) in Appleton, 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 Appleton 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 Appleton
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Appleton?
Most CNA programs in Appleton 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 Appleton?
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 Appleton?
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 Appleton?
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 Appleton?
Yes, some schools in Appleton 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 Appleton there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Green Bay, Oshkosh, West Bend, Stevens Point, and Sheboygan. 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 Appleton?
CNAs in Appleton 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.