CNA Classes & Programs in Kansas
- CNA Programs in Kansas: At-a-Glance
- Why Become a CNA in Kansas?
- Kansas CNA Training & Certification
- CNA Curriculum & Clinical Training in Kansas
- How Long Does it Take to Become a CNA in Kansas?
- Do Online CNA Programs Exist in Kansas?
- 2026 Fastest CNA Training Program Options in Kansas
- 2026 Affordable CNA Training Program Options in Kansas
- Kansas CNA Employment and Wages
- How to Choose the Right CNA Program in Kansas
- CNA vs Other Healthcare Roles in Kansas
- 2026 Updated List of Kansas Schools Offering CNA Classes
- Latest Articles & Guides
Certified Nursing Assistants are essential caregivers across Kansas, supporting residents in Wichita hospitals, Topeka long-term care centers, and small community clinics throughout the state. CNAs (sometimes called "nurse aides") provide hands-on assistance with daily living, observe changes in patient conditions, and serve as a vital link between patients and nurses. For Kansans seeking a quick entry into healthcare, CNA training offers one of the most practical starting points.
This guide explains:
- Kansas CNA training and certification requirements
- Minimum class and clinical hours
- What CNA courses in Kansas actually include
- Program length, tuition expectations, and testing
- How to select a high-quality Kansas CNA program
CNA Programs in Kansas: At-a-Glance
| Category | Kansas CNA Information |
| Minimum training hours required | 90 hours |
| Clinical requirement | Yes – supervised clinical training required |
| Certification exam | Kansas Nurse Aide Competency Exam |
| State registry | Kansas Nurse Aide Registry (KDADS) |
| Typical program length | 4–8 weeks |
| Typical total cost | About $750–$1,300 depending on school |
| Average CNA Salary in Kansas | Typically low–mid $30k range |
Why Become a CNA in Kansas?
Kansas communities rely heavily on CNAs to care for seniors, rehabilitation patients, and individuals with chronic conditions. Demand is especially strong in skilled nursing and home health, where aides are needed around the clock.
Benefits of choosing CNA classes in Kansas include:
- Quickest route to healthcare employment
- Opportunities in both urban and rural settings
- Flexible scheduling for students and career changers
- A foundation for advancing to CMA, LPN, or RN roles
With modest tuition and clear state standards, CNA training is one of the most accessible healthcare credentials in Kansas.
Kansas CNA Training & Certification
Kansas requires several steps before you can work as a CNA:
- Complete a state-approved CNA training program of at least 90 hours.
- Pass the Kansas Nurse Aide Competency Exam, which includes:
- A written knowledge test
- A hands-on skills evaluation
- Be added to the Kansas Nurse Aide Registry maintained by the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS).
- Renew certification according to state employment and continuing education rules.
The exam evaluates practical abilities, such as infection control, safe transfers, and respectful communication with residents, which Kansas employers expect on day one. Learn more about CNA certification.
CNA Curriculum & Clinical Training in Kansas
Kansas CNA programs blend classroom learning with supervised patient care. Course names may vary by school, but most include titles similar to the following:
Typical Course Titles:
- Introduction to Nursing Assistant Roles
- Resident Rights & Ethical Care
- Infection Control & Safety Procedures
- Basic Nursing Skills Laboratory
- Personal Care Techniques
- Vital Signs & Health Monitoring
- Communication in Healthcare
- Clinical Practicum for Nurse Aides
CNA Coursework & Clinical Overview
| Training Component | What Students Learn |
| Foundations of Care | Safety, legal issues, resident rights |
| Personal Care Techniques | Bathing, grooming, feeding, mobility |
| Vital Signs | Measuring and documenting patient data |
| Professional Communication | Teamwork, dementia-sensitive care |
| Clinical Practicum | Supervised experience in a facility |
Kansas requires in-person clinical hours within the 90-hour total. Clinical placements typically occur in:
- Skilled nursing and rehabilitation centers
- Hospitals or long-term care units
- Assisted living communities
How Long Does it Take to Become a CNA in Kansas?
Most Kansas CNA classes can be completed in about 4 to 8 weeks.
Program length depends on:
- Full-time accelerated vs. part-time schedules
- Evening or weekend options
- Timing of clinical rotations and testing
Students seeking the shortest path usually choose daytime intensive formats, while working adults often prefer evening tracks.
Do Online CNA Programs Exist in Kansas?
Kansas permits hybrid CNA training, but not fully online certification.
- Classroom theory may be offered online
- Skills labs and clinical training must be completed in person
- The Kansas competency exam requires face-to-face skills testing
Be cautious of any program advertising 100% online CNA certification without local clinical experience.
2026 Fastest CNA Training Program Options in Kansas
Looking for CNA training in Kansas? You might want to consider programs that finish quickly. These shorter options help you start working sooner, which is great if you need to enter the workforce fast. In Kansas, from cities like Wichita to regions across the state, certificate or diploma programs can get you ready by 2026. When reviewing choices, check the graduation rate and how many students stay in the program—this shows if the training works well. A quickest program can save you time and money, letting you begin your healthcare career without delay. For details, see the table below with school names, program highlights, and rates.
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Northwest Kansas Technical College |
|
|
| North Central Kansas Technical College |
|
|
| Manhattan Area Technical College |
|
|
*Dataset: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2024. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/
2026 Affordable CNA Training Program Options in Kansas
Finding affordable CNA training in Kansas matters a lot. These programs help people start healthcare careers without big debts. In Kansas, you can find certificate or diploma options across the state, including in larger cities like Wichita, Topeka, and Kansas City. The table shows three schools with program highlights and tuition ranges for 2026. Looking at low-cost options makes education accessible. It's important to compare tuition and find economical programs that fit your budget. This helps students enter the workforce ready to care for others.
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Fort Scott Community College |
|
|
| Coffeyville Community College |
|
|
| Cowley County Community College |
|
|
*U.S. Department of Education, IPEDS 2024 institutional data.
Kansas CNA Employment and Wages
CNA pay in Kansas varies by region and employer type, with hospitals and specialty units often offering higher hourly rates than long-term care settings. Learn more about CNA salary figures.
CNA Salary in Kansas
| Location | Total Employment | Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 1,388,430 | $39,530 |
| Kansas | 23,950 | $36,910 |
Table data taken from 2024 BLS (http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes311131.htm)
How to Choose the Right CNA Program in Kansas
Use this practical checklist when comparing schools:
- KDADS approval and eligibility for the Kansas exam
- Guaranteed clinical placement arranged by the program
- Clear, low-cost tuition with all fees explained
- Adequate lab time for skills practice
- Connections to local employers or job placement help
Asking about graduate pass rates and instructor experience can help identify strong programs.
CNA vs Other Healthcare Roles in Kansas
| Role | Training Length | Main Duties | Credential |
| CNA | 4–8 weeks | Basic bedside care | Registry listed |
| Medical Assistant | 9–12 months | Clinic procedures & admin | Certificate |
| LPN | 12–18 months | Medications, nursing tasks | Licensed |
| RN | 2–4 years | Full nursing scope | Licensed |
CNA training offers the shortest and most inexpensive way to begin working directly with patients while exploring future nursing education. For those looking for higher earning potential and more responsibility, consider a CNA to RN program to level up, or explore nursing schools in Kansas.
2026 Updated List of Kansas Schools Offering CNA Classes
Looking for CNA classes in Kansas? This 2026 updated list highlights schools across the state offering Certified Nursing Assistant programs. Each entry includes the city and state location, key program features, and a link to the school's program page for more details. Explore options to find a program that fits your needs and start your healthcare career today.
Jump to City:
Arkansas City, KS
Cowley County Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nursing Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- 90-hour comprehensive course.
- Kansas state certification exam.
- Basic life support certification.
- Campus-based program delivery.
- Kansas Promise Scholarship eligible.
- Skills for adult care facilities.
- Focus on human understanding.
- Professional attitude development.
- Certificate/Diploma - Healthcare Aides & Assistants
Concentration: Certified Medication Aide - Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Focus on medication administration
- Hands-on training
- Experienced instructors
- Financial aid available
- Kansas Promise Act eligible
- Prepares for long-term care roles
- Specialized healthcare training
- Certificate/Diploma - Healthcare Aides & Assistants
Concentration: Certified Nursing Assistant - Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based nursing assistant program
- Multiple care setting opportunities
- Kansas Promise Scholarship available
- Additional specialized certification classes
- Clinical practice in local facilities
- Certificate/Diploma - Healthcare Aides & Assistants
Concentration: Home Health Aide - Campus Based - Website
- Home Health Aide concentration
- Campus-based program
- Hands-on clinical practice
- Scholarships available
- Prepares for immediate workforce entry
Beloit, KS
North Central Kansas Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- 5 credit hours total.
- On-campus or hybrid format.
- Offered fall, spring, summer.
- Must be 16 years old.
- Includes lecture, lab, clinical.
- Eligible for state certification.
- Costs vary annually.
- No financial aid available.
Chanute, KS
Neosho County Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)
Campus Based - Website
- 90 clock-hour program.
- Includes theory, lab, clinical.
- No high school diploma required.
- Approved by Kansas state agency.
- Prepares for state exam.
- Entry-level healthcare training.
- Covers aging process skills.
- Clinical in long-term care.
Coffeyville, KS
Coffeyville Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurses Aide (CNAD)
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- 5-hour CNA course
- State exam required
- Tuition-free for Kansas residents
- Salary range $20k-$25k
- Entry-level healthcare training
- Practical patient care focus
- Admissions checklist available
Colby, KS
Colby Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- Nurse Aide certificate program
- 5 credit hour course
- Campus-based instruction
- State licensing exam required
- Part of Allied Health certificates
- Contact advising for admissions
- Entry-level healthcare training
- Certificate of completion offered
Concordia, KS
Cloud County Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- 90-hour class length.
- Blended online and face-to-face.
- Eligible for state certification.
- Financial aid accepted.
- Military payments accepted.
- Limited class sizes.
- Lift 50 pounds requirement.
- Internet access needed.
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Aide
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 90-hour comprehensive course
- Hybrid online/face-to-face format
- State certification preparation
- Hands-on clinical sessions
- Military/financial aid eligible
El Dorado, KS
Butler Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Prepares for nursing homes
- Teaches daily care routines
- Focuses on patient hygiene
- First line of defense role
- Assists in hospitals
- Long-term care training
- Scholarships available
Emporia, KS
Flint Hills Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- Six-week program length.
- 90 hours of instruction.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Prepares for state exam.
- On-campus delivery format.
- Taught by experienced RN.
- Cost sheets available.
- Admissions steps provided.
Fort Scott, KS
Fort Scott Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Geriatric Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)
Campus Based - Website
- 90-hour state-regulated course
- Lecture, lab, clinical experience
- 16+ age requirement
- 17% projected job growth
- Focuses on elderly patient care
- Certificate/Diploma - Geriatric Certified Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- 90-hour state-regulated program.
- Combines lecture, lab, clinical experience.
- Minimum age 16 years.
- Negative TB test required.
- Clinical experience in adult care homes.
- Follows federal guidelines.
- Prepares for Kansas certification.
- Campus-based program.
Garden City, KS
Garden City Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)
Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid online and campus format.
- Small class sizes of 8-10 students.
- Hands-on lab and clinical experiences.
- Prepares for Kansas State certification.
- Scholarships available through financial aid.
- Flexible schedules for working students.
- Approved by Kansas Department of Aging.
- Instructors provide direct advisement.
Goodland, KS
Northwest Kansas Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- 90-hour KDADS-approved curriculum.
- Campus-based program.
- Includes clinical experience.
- Minimum age 16 years.
- Physical strength required.
- Prepares for Kansas CNA exam.
- Tuition $775.00.
- Books and materials $109.00.
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurses Aide (CNA)
Campus Based - Website
- 90-hour KDADS approved curriculum
- Classroom, lab, clinical training
- Minimum age requirement: 16
- Tuition: $775 (Excel in CTE covered)
- Physical strength requirements
- Clinical experiences mandatory
- Prepares for state certification exam
Great Bend, KS
Barton County Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- State-approved KDADS training.
- 90 contact hour minimum.
- Hands-on lab and clinical.
- Flexible hybrid and evening options.
- 4, 8, or 16-week formats.
- Tuition from $755.
- Enroll at age 15.
- Test at age 16.
Highland, KS
Highland Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Prepares for state certification.
- Entry-level healthcare training.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Financial aid available.
- Basic admissions requirements.
- Career-focused curriculum.
- Foundation for nursing careers.
Hutchinson, KS
Hutchinson Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Entry-level nursing position
- Focus on elderly patient care
- Accredited by KDADS
- Higher Learning Commission accreditation
- Allied Health career pathway
- Personal care skill training
- Long-term care setting focus
Independence, KS
Independence Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nursing Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- 90-hour CNA program.
- Regulated by Kansas Department.
- 8-week hybrid course.
- Online assignments available.
- 2 days of labs.
- 3 days clinical experience.
- Prepares for state certification.
- Requires 80% test score.
Iola, KS
Allen County Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nursing Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- 5 credit hours.
- Fall/Spring availability.
- State exam on campus.
- Minimum age 16 years.
- Parental consent if under 18.
- Classroom and clinical instruction.
- Nursing home clinical setting.
Kansas City, KS
Kansas City Kansas Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- 5 credit hours required
- Campus-based program
- Prepares for state certification exam
- Includes clinical training component
- Background check required for clinicals
- Health Professions division program
- Certificate of completion offered
- Located in Kansas City, Kansas
Liberal, KS
Seward County Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Campus Based - Website
- Full-time campus program
- RN instructors with clinical experience
- Courses include clinical supervision
- Prepares for Kansas certification
- Allied Health Division training
Manhattan, KS
Manhattan Area Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- Certificate of completion program.
- Approximate cost $1,350.
- High school student reduced rate.
- 5 credits required.
- Campus-based learning.
- Includes tuition and textbooks.
- Computer and internet required.
- State-issued photo ID needed.
Overland Park, KS
Johnson County Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 96-hour comprehensive course
- Hybrid learning format
- Multiple class schedule options
- Kansas CNA test eligibility
- Potential scholarship funding
- Healthcare career pathway
- In-demand profession
- Clinical skills training
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)
Campus Based - Website
- 96-hour course length.
- Campus-based program.
- Flexible day and evening schedules.
- Hybrid online and in-person options.
- Hands-on clinical training.
- Prepares for Kansas CNA exam.
- Kansas Promise Scholarship eligible.
- Immunizations required for enrollment.
Salina, KS
Salina Area Technical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- Eight-week program length.
- Certificate of completion earned.
- Program cost $774.
- On-campus classes available.
- Afternoon and evening classes.
- 25 hours clinical experience.
- Meets Kansas state requirements.
- Reading placement test required.
Topeka, KS
Washburn Institute of Technology
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)
Campus Based - Website
- 90 hours of instruction.
- Classroom and clinical experience.
- On-campus program.
- Prepares for Kansas certification exam.
- High school and adult students eligible.
- Prerequisite for advanced healthcare programs.
- Program length is one semester.
- Morning, afternoon, and evening schedules.
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- 90 hours of instruction.
- Classroom and clinical experience.
- Prepares for Kansas certification exam.
- High school and adult students eligible.
- Prerequisite for advanced healthcare programs.
- On-campus program.
- Morning, afternoon, evening schedules.
- Begins every August and January.
Wichita, KS
Wichita State University-Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program in Wichita.
- Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) training.
- Hands-on clinical experience included.
- Prepares for state certification exams.
- Focus on patient care skills.
- Teaches medical terminology and safety.
- High school diploma required for admission.
- Competitive program costs.
*U.S. Department of Education, NCES, IPEDS 2024 data files.
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