CNA Classes & Programs in Portage, Wisconsin
Get Information from CNA Programs in Portage and Nearby
Prospective CNAs in Portage can select from 5 state-approved CNA programs designed to help launch a healthcare career. This Wisconsin city provides access to CNA classes that meet state certification standards and support local workforce needs. Portage also features online learning opportunities for added flexibility during training.
CNA training programs in Portage prepare students for real-world responsibilities by combining classroom instruction with practical skill-building experiences. Local employment options may be found at facilities such as Aspirus Divine Savior Hospital—a key healthcare provider in Portage—which supports both acute care and emergency services within the city.
In the Madison region, CNAs earn around $41,550 annually according to BLS OEWS (May 2023), which is above the statewide median of $40,010. Portage's CNA courses offer multiple paths toward entry into this important profession.
Quick Facts About Portage
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Population10,450Residents
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CNA Programs5State-approved Programs
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Median Income$59,619Median Annual Income
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CNA Hourly Rate$19.97Median Hourly Rate
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CNA Yearly Salary$41,550Median Annual Salary
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Facilities1CMS Hospital
Get Information from CNA Programs in Portage and Nearby
Schools in Portage 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 Portage
Portage offers 5 CNA training programs that equip students with the skills needed for Wisconsin certification and registry placement. With online CNA classes available alongside traditional options and several free training choices, these programs prepare participants for certification success and support career opportunities in healthcare throughout the area where CNAs are needed.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: available in Portage through various funding sources including employer sponsorship and grants.
Accelerated programs: available in Portage and are usually 4-week programs, sometimes 3 or 5 weeks.
Online programs: Some classes in Portage offer online coursework combined with local clinical training.
Divine Savior Hospital and Nursing Home
Program Details
Portage Enterprice Center
Program Details
Madison Area Tech College - Portage
Program Details
Aspirus Tivoli Nursing Home
Program Details
Aspirus Divine Savior Hospital
Program Details
CNA Employment Opportunities in Portage
CNA Salary Information
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Annual Salary$41,550Median Yearly Pay
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Hourly Rate$19.97Median Per Hour
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Available Jobs3,070CNA Positions
CNA jobs in Portage are influenced by steady demand in the Madison region, where approximately 3,070 certified nursing assistants are employed across diverse healthcare environments. While city-specific employment numbers are not available, regional data reflects ongoing need for CNAs throughout this part of Wisconsin.
The CNA salary in Portage can be estimated using regional figures: In the Madison region, CNAs earn a median annual salary of $41,550—equivalent to about $19.97 per hour—according to BLS OEWS (May 2023). This surpasses the Wisconsin statewide median salary of $40,010 per year and suggests notable earning potential for local nursing assistants pursuing careers in this field.
The city's primary CMS-certified facility is Aspirus Divine Savior Hospital—a voluntary non-profit private institution providing acute care services with emergency capabilities and an overall rating of three stars from CMS data (July 2025). This hospital plays an important role in hiring CNAs within Portage's healthcare sector.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Ready to get certified and start your CNA career in Portage? 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 Portage? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Reedsburg, Richland Center, Mauston, Berlin, and Beaver Dam, 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.
Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Portage (1 facilities)
1 hospital in Portage offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
Aspirus Divine Savior Hospital
Facility Details
Requirements to Work as a CNA in Portage, WI
To work as a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) in Portage, 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 Portage 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 Portage
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Portage?
Most CNA programs in Portage 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 Portage?
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 Portage?
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 Portage?
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 Portage?
Yes, some schools in Portage 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 Portage there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Reedsburg, Richland Center, Mauston, Berlin, and Beaver Dam. 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 Portage?
CNAs in Portage 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.