Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs)—also known as nurse aides—provide hands-on care across Oklahoma’s healthcare system. From Oklahoma City and Tulsa to smaller communities and rural regions, CNAs help patients with daily living activities, safety monitoring, and basic health support in hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and home health settings.

CNA training in Oklahoma is designed to be direct, skill-focused, and job-ready, offering one of the quickest and most inexpensive ways to begin working in healthcare.

Here’s what this guide will walk you through:

  • Oklahoma’s official CNA training and certification process
  • Required classroom and clinical training hours
  • What CNA coursework typically includes
  • Program length and cost expectations
  • How to evaluate CNA programs in Oklahoma

CNA Programs in Oklahoma: At-a-Glance

CategoryOklahoma CNA Information
Minimum training hours required75 hours (state-approved)
Clinical requirementMinimum 16 hours supervised clinical experience required
Certification examOklahoma Nurse Aide Competency Exam
State registryOklahoma Nurse Aide Registry (Oklahoma State Department of Health)
Typical program length~4–10 weeks
Typical total cost$700–$1,800+ depending on provider
Average CNA Salary in OklahomaMid-$30k range

Why Become a CNA in Oklahoma?

Oklahoma's healthcare facilities rely heavily on CNAs to support patient care, particularly in long-term care, rehabilitation, and home health services. As the state's population ages and access to healthcare expands, the need for trained nurse aides continues. Employment opportunities are strong in:

  • Skilled nursing facilities
  • Hospitals and rehabilitation centers
  • Assisted living communities
  • Home health agencies

For many students, CNA training provides quick entry into the healthcare workforce and valuable experience for pursuing LPN or RN education later.

Oklahoma CNA Certification — Step by Step

You must complete the following steps to complete CNA certification and be ready for employment:

Step 1: Complete Training
Enroll in a state-approved CNA training program with at least 75 hours, including both classroom learning and supervised clinical practice.

Step 2: Pass the Competency Exam
You must pass the Oklahoma Nurse Aide Competency Exam, which includes:

  • A written or oral test
  • A practical skills evaluation

Step 3: Join the Registry
Once you pass, your name is placed on the Oklahoma Nurse Aide Registry, allowing you to work legally as a CNA.

Step 4: Keep Certification Active
CNAs must meet employment requirements within a defined timeframe or requalify according to state rules.

Learn more about CNA certification.

CNA Curriculum & Clinical Training in Oklahoma

Oklahoma CNA programs focus on the core tasks CNAs perform daily.

Training AreaSkills Covered
Foundations of CareInfection control, patient rights, safety
Personal Care SupportHygiene, feeding, mobility assistance
Observation SkillsVital signs and reporting changes
CommunicationInteraction with patients and care teams
Clinical PracticeSupervised hands-on care

Clinical training is completed in person at approved healthcare facilities such as nursing homes or hospitals, ensuring students develop real-world caregiving skills before testing.

How Long Does CNA Training Take in Oklahoma?

Most CNA classes in Oklahoma can be completed in about 4 to 10 weeks, depending on:

  • Full-time vs. part-time study
  • Day or evening course schedules
  • Clinical rotation availability

Accelerated programs allow students to finish in the shortest timeframe, while flexible schedules support those who are working or have other responsibilities.

Are Online CNA Programs Available in Oklahoma?

Fully online CNA certification programs are not permitted in Oklahoma, but online components may be available:

  • Some programs may provide hybrid learning, where theory coursework is online
  • All clinical and skills training must be completed in person
  • Hands-on experience is required to qualify for the competency exam and registry placement

2026 Fastest CNA Training Program Options in Oklahoma

For students seeking quick healthcare career paths in Oklahoma, certified nursing assistant (CNA) training offers an efficient route into medical professions. These programs provide accelerated learning opportunities across major regions like Oklahoma City and Tulsa, enabling students to enter the workforce rapidly. With the shortest certification timelines available, aspiring healthcare professionals can complete their training in weeks rather than years. These programs focus on essential skills, hands-on clinical experience, and rapid preparation for state certification exams. Shorter training durations mean students can start earning sooner, reduce overall educational expenses, and quickly transition into meaningful healthcare roles. Whether you're looking to launch a medical career or seeking a flexible educational option, these condensed CNA programs deliver practical training with remarkable speed and efficiency.
School NameHighlightsRetention & Grad Rates
Central Technology Center
  • Prepares for CNA certification exam.
  • Campus-based program delivery.
  • Teaches patient care fundamentals.
  • Includes vital signs monitoring.
  • Covers medical record charting.
  • Offers home health aide option.
  • Leads to medication aide pathway.
  • Focuses on practical skills training.
  • Retention Rate: 26%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 10 :1
Francis Tuttle Technology Center
  • 102 total hours required.
  • Up to 12 weeks length.
  • Flexible hybrid format.
  • In-person and online options.
  • Tuition $375 for in-state.
  • Supplies cost $80.
  • Books cost $70.
  • Total cost $525.
  • Retention Rate: 40%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 20 :1
Metro Technology Centers
  • 480-hour program length.
  • Campus-based training.
  • Prepares for Oklahoma State Nurse Aide Registry exam.
  • Includes CPR certification.
  • Covers medical terminology and anatomy.
  • Offers Long Term Care Nurse Aid certification.
  • Available for juniors and seniors.
  • Daytime class schedules.
  • Graduation Rate: 35%
  • Retention Rate: 75%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 5 :1
*Federal data: IPEDS 2024, administered by the National Center for Education Statistics.

2026 Affordable CNA Training Program Options in Oklahoma

Finding an affordable CNA training program in Oklahoma can open doors for students seeking a rewarding healthcare career. With options spanning Oklahoma City, Tulsa, and other key regions, aspiring nursing assistants have multiple pathways to gain essential skills without breaking the bank. Low-cost programs provide critical opportunities for individuals looking to enter the healthcare field quickly and professionally. These training options help students learn vital patient care techniques while managing educational expenses. By exploring certificate and diploma programs across the state, students can find programs that balance quality education with budget-friendly tuition rates. Selecting the right CNA program can be a transformative step toward a stable and meaningful career in healthcare services.
School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Canadian Valley Technology Center
  • 105-hour program length.
  • Hybrid format: online and in-person.
  • Cost: $557 to $597.
  • Books required, not included.
  • Background check: $65 included.
  • Must pass state certification exam.
  • Self-paced, instructor-assisted course.
  • Campuses in Chickasha and Cowan.
-
Chisholm Trail Technology Center
  • 91 total program hours.
  • 16 hours clinical experience.
  • Campus-based training.
  • Short-term course format.
  • Led by RN instructor.
  • Prepares for CNA certification.
  • Focus on long-term care.
  • Adult learner oriented.
-
Connors State College
  • CNA certificate program.
  • Campus-based training.
  • Part of College 2 Career.
  • Career exploration included.
  • Job placement assistance.
  • Located in Oklahoma.
  • Multiple campus locations.
  • Financial aid available.
  • $3,000 - $4,600 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $6,000 - $9,000 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
*Credit: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2024.

Oklahoma CNA Employment and Wages

CNA wages in Oklahoma vary by location and employer type, with hospitals and specialty care facilities often offering higher CNA salaries.

CNA Salary in Oklahoma

LocationTotal EmploymentAnnual Salary
United States1,388,430$39,530
Oklahoma19,860$35,040

Table data taken from 2024 BLS (http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes311131.htm)

Choosing the Right CNA Program in Oklahoma

Think of your program search like a quick audit:

Program Approval
Is it approved by the Oklahoma State Department of Health?

Clinical Arrangements
Does the school organize supervised clinical hours?

Scheduling Fit
Are there day, evening, weekend, or hybrid formats?

Cost Clarity
Are tuition and extra fees clearly explained?

Career Support
Does the program provide exam prep or job placement resources?

Programs that clearly address these factors typically offer smoother paths to certification and employment.

CNA vs Other Healthcare Roles in Oklahoma

RoleTraining TimePatient InteractionMedication DutiesAdvancement Path
CNAWeeksHighNoLPN → RN
Medical AssistantMonthsModerateLimitedLPN/RN
LPN~1 yearHighYesRN
RN2–4 yearsHighYes + advancedAPRN/leadership

CNA training is one of the shortest and most inexpensive routes into hands-on healthcare in Oklahoma. For those who wish to climb the career ladder, pursuing a CNA to RN program can be an efficient route to a nursing career. Explore nursing schools in Oklahoma for more information.

2026 Updated List of Oklahoma Schools Offering CNA Classes

Jump to City:

Ardmore, OK

Southern Oklahoma Technology Center

  • Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based training.
    • Short-term adult program.
    • No prior experience required.
    • Hands-on learning approach.
    • Flexible scheduling options.
    • Covers patient care skills.
    • Includes infection control.
    • Medication administration training.
  • Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Assisting

    Campus Based - Website

    • 525-hour program length.
    • 10-month completion estimate.
    • Campus-based instruction.
    • Focus on long-term care.
    • Medical terminology included.
    • Anatomy and physiology courses.
    • Long Term Care Aide certification.
    • CPR certification available.

Burns Flat, OK

Western Technology Center

  • Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Services- Long Term Care Aide

    Campus Based - Website

    • 480-hour program length
    • Campus-based instruction
    • Tuition waived for high school students
    • Long Term Care Aide certification
    • Health Care Provider CPR/First Aid
    • Dual college credit available
    • Hands-on training experiences
    • Computer application instruction

Choctaw, OK

Eastern Oklahoma County Technology Center

  • Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nursing Assistant

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program format.
    • For senior students only.
    • Fall or spring semester options.
    • Morning and afternoon sessions.
    • Instructor Kami Kelly leads.
    • Financial aid available.
    • Career placement services offered.
    • Hands-on training approach.
  • Certificate/Diploma - Pre-Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • For high school seniors only.
    • Fall or spring semester schedule.
    • Morning and afternoon sessions available.
    • Campus-based program delivery.
    • Instructor contact information provided.
    • Program prepares for certification.
    • Hands-on healthcare training.
    • Located in Choctaw, Oklahoma.

Drumright, OK

Central Technology Center

  • Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)

    Campus Based - Website

    • Prepares for CNA certification exam.
    • Campus-based program delivery.
    • Teaches patient care fundamentals.
    • Includes vital signs monitoring.
    • Covers medical record charting.
    • Offers home health aide option.
    • Leads to medication aide pathway.
    • Focuses on practical skills training.

Duncan, OK

Red River Technology Center

  • Certificate/Diploma - Health Careers Certification

    Concentration: Nursing Assistant - Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program format
    • Nursing Assistant concentration
    • Health Careers Certification program
    • Located in Duncan, Oklahoma
    • Prepares for state certification
    • Hands-on clinical training
    • Entry-level healthcare preparation
    • Patient care skills focus

El Reno, OK

Canadian Valley Technology Center

  • Certificate/Diploma - Health Careers - CNA/AUA

    Campus Based - Website

    • High school and adult tracks
    • Multiple campus locations
    • 16+ clinical hours
    • Various healthcare certifications
    • Comprehensive medical training
  • Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Aide (CNA)

    Campus Based - Website

    • 105-hour program length.
    • Hybrid format: online and in-person.
    • Cost: $557 to $597.
    • Books required, not included.
    • Background check: $65 included.
    • Must pass state certification exam.
    • Self-paced, instructor-assisted course.
    • Campuses in Chickasha and Cowan.
  • Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Services - CNA

    Campus Based - Website

    • 720 total program hours.
    • Campus-based instruction format.
    • Includes clinical hours requirement.
    • Covers anatomy and physiology.
    • Teaches medical terminology.
    • Includes CPR and first aid.
    • Long-term care aid training.
    • Home health care component.

Norman, OK

Moore Norman Technology Center

  • Certificate/Diploma - Long-Term Care Nurse Aide

    Campus Based - Website

    • 75 class hours.
    • Cost: $485.
    • Self-paced flexible schedule.
    • First class in-person.
    • Approved by Oklahoma registry.
    • Campus-based program.
    • Focus on long-term care.
    • Basic nurse aide skills.
  • Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Aide

    Campus Based - Website

    • Self-paced flexible schedule.
    • 75 class hours.
    • Cost $485.
    • Approved by Oklahoma registry.
    • Campus-based training.
    • Focus on long-term care.
    • Includes home health skills.
    • First class in-person.

Oklahoma City, OK

Francis Tuttle Technology Center

  • Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Aide (CNA)

    Campus Based - Website

    • 102 total hours required.
    • Up to 12 weeks length.
    • Flexible hybrid format.
    • In-person and online options.
    • Tuition $375 for in-state.
    • Supplies cost $80.
    • Books cost $70.
    • Total cost $525.
  • Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Aide (CNA)

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 102 total hours required.
    • Up to 12 weeks length.
    • Hybrid program format.
    • $525 total cost.
    • In-state adult tuition.
    • Flexible self-paced schedule.
    • Weekly on-site attendance.
    • Clinical experience included.

Metro Technology Centers

  • Certificate/Diploma - Long-Term Care Aid

    Campus Based - Website

    • 480-hour program length.
    • Campus-based in Oklahoma City.
    • For high school juniors and seniors.
    • Includes CPR certification.
    • Prepares for Nurse Aide Registry exam.
    • Offers health care core curriculum.
    • Covers medical terminology.
    • Includes anatomy and physiology.
  • Certificate/Diploma - Long-Term Care Aid/Nurse Aid

    Campus Based - Website

    • 480-hour program length.
    • Campus-based training.
    • Prepares for Oklahoma State Nurse Aide Registry exam.
    • Includes CPR certification.
    • Covers medical terminology and anatomy.
    • Offers Long Term Care Nurse Aid certification.
    • Available for juniors and seniors.
    • Daytime class schedules.

Omega, OK

Chisholm Trail Technology Center

  • Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant

    Campus Based - Website

    • 91 total program hours.
    • 16 hours clinical experience.
    • Campus-based training.
    • Short-term course format.
    • Led by RN instructor.
    • Prepares for CNA certification.
    • Focus on long-term care.
    • Adult learner oriented.

Stillwater, OK

Meridian Technology Center

  • Certificate/Diploma - Long-Term Care Aide (Pre-Nursing)

    Campus Based - Website

    • Hands-on campus program.
    • Leads to nurse aide certifications.
    • 480 total course hours.
    • Includes CPR and first aid.
    • Real-world clinical experience.
    • Open to adults and high schoolers.
    • Algebra 1 and Biology prerequisites.
    • Covers patient care and anatomy.

Tulsa, OK

Tulsa Technology Center

  • Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant - One Semester

    Campus Based - Website

    • One semester program length.
    • Campus-based program delivery.
    • Adult tuition $960.
    • High school students free tuition.
    • $455 supplies cost.
    • Background check required.
    • Immunization verification needed.
    • Drug screening mandatory.
  • Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant

    Campus Based - Website

    • One-semester program length.
    • Campus-based instruction.
    • $960 tuition for adults.
    • Free tuition for high school students.
    • $455 tools and supplies cost.
    • Background check required.
    • Immunization records needed.
    • Drug screening mandatory.

Warner, OK

Connors State College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nursing Assistant

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program delivery
    • Part of AAS Nursing degree
    • Certificate credential offered
    • Oklahoma Board of Nursing accredited
    • Hands-on clinical training
    • Entry-level healthcare preparation
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarship opportunities exist
  • Certificate/Diploma - FOCUS program- Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)

    Campus Based - Website

    • CNA certificate program.
    • Campus-based training.
    • Part of College 2 Career.
    • Career exploration included.
    • Job placement assistance.
    • Located in Oklahoma.
    • Multiple campus locations.
    • Financial aid available.

Wetumka, OK

Wes Watkins Technology Center

  • Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant

    Campus Based - Website

    • 480 total program hours.
    • Long-term care aide certification.
    • Home healthcare aide certification.
    • CPR and First Aid training.
    • Medical terminology included.
    • Anatomy and physiology covered.
    • Campus-based program delivery.
    • High school student focus.
*Data derived from the 2024 IPEDS survey conducted by NCES.

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