CNA Classes & Programs in Merrill, Wisconsin
Get Information from CNA Programs in Merrill and Nearby
Merrill offers 2 CNA programs, giving individuals pathways to begin a career in healthcare. This northern Wisconsin community provides aspiring CNAs with access to education that meets state requirements, preparing students for certification and employment. The presence of both a hospital and a nursing home in Merrill supports those seeking quality CNA training programs close to home.
Students enrolled in CNA classes here benefit from proximity to local healthcare facilities such as Pine Crest Nursing Home and Aspirus Merrill Hospital. These institutions serve as potential employers after graduation and may also offer valuable opportunities for clinical experience during training. While there are no online or accelerated programs currently available in Merrill, the existing options support those pursuing CNA careers in the region.
Statewide in Wisconsin, CNAs earn around $40,010 annually, though city-specific salary data for Merrill is not available. Graduates can expect steady demand for their skills, with local employers seeking trained and certified nursing assistants to join their teams.
Quick Facts About Merrill
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Population9,266Residents
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CNA Programs2State-approved Programs
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Median Income$48,378Median Annual Income
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CNA Hourly Rate$19.24Median Hourly Rate
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CNA Yearly Salary$40,010Median Annual Salary
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Facilities2CMS Healthcare Facilities1 Nursing Homes • 1 Hospital
Get Information from CNA Programs in Merrill and Nearby
Schools in Merrill 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
- Class locations & formats
- Program details & requirements
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Browse CNA Classes in Merrill
Merrill provides 2 CNA training programs designed to prepare students for Wisconsin state certification and successful entry into the healthcare field. Each program emphasizes practical skills and job readiness, ensuring graduates are equipped for certification exams and employment. With local demand for CNAs, these programs offer a solid foundation for those seeking patient care careers in the Merrill area.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: not available in Merrill, but free classes are available in other cities throughout Wisconsin.
Accelerated programs: not available in Merrill but are offered in other cities throughout Wisconsin.
Online programs not available in Merrill but are offered in other cities throughout Wisconsin.
Bell Tower Residence
Program Details
Pine Crest Nursing Home
Program Details
CNA Employment Opportunities in Merrill
CNA Salary Information
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Annual Salary$40,010Median Yearly Pay
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Hourly Rate$19.24Median Per Hour
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Available Jobs25,950CNA Positions
CNA jobs in Merrill reflect steady local demand, supported by both the hospital and nursing home located within the city. Employers value candidates who have completed state-approved CNA programs and earned certification, creating ongoing openings for newly trained assistants.
City-specific salary data is not available, so statewide figures provide the best reference. According to BLS OEWS (May 2023), CNAs in Wisconsin earn around $40,010 per year, or approximately $19.24 per hour. This median salary reflects trends across the state rather than Merrill alone, so actual wages may vary based on employer type and experience level.
Merrill features two CMS-certified healthcare facilities that often hire CNAs: Pine Crest Nursing Home—a county-owned facility with 120 beds—and Aspirus Merrill Hospital, a voluntary non-profit hospital serving the region. These institutions represent primary employment options for certified nursing assistants within Merrill's city limits.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Ready to get certified and start your CNA career in Merrill? 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 Merrill? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Rhinelander, Antigo, Medford, Wausau, and Stevens Point, 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 Merrill (1 facilities)
1 nursing home in Merrill providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
Facility Details
Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Merrill (1 facilities)
1 hospital in Merrill offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
Facility Details
Requirements to Work as a CNA in Merrill, WI
To work as a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) in Merrill, 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 Merrill 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 Merrill
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Merrill?
Most CNA programs in Merrill 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 Merrill?
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 Merrill?
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 Merrill?
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 Merrill?
Yes, some schools in Merrill 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 Merrill there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Rhinelander, Antigo, Medford, Wausau, and Stevens Point. 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 Merrill?
CNAs in Merrill 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.