CNA Classes & Programs in Alaska

A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), which can be generally categorized as a nurse’s aide, helps patients in many ways, such as assisting them with personal hygiene, wound dressing or obtaining vitals. In the frontier state of Alaska, CNAs can earn approximately $38,000 annually, according to the Bureau of Labor. This is considerably more than the national average of $23,050. CNAs frequently leverage their patient and healthcare experience to advance into LPNs or even RNs.

Alaska’s aging population and their need for healthcare professionals in isolated rural communities are just two crucial reasons why many individuals in the state are looking to CNA training as a new career option. There are many incentives to becoming a CNA as opposed to other healthcare careers as well, including paid training which only requires a few weeks of commitment. If you’re looking to get your foot into the door of a new healthcare career, take a look at the sections below to learn how.

Why Become a CNA in Alaska?

While becoming a nurse requires at least a few years of school, a degree, and several thousand dollars in tuition, becoming a nursing assistant only requires a short training program which may even offer a stipend or wage while you train. Many medical institutions also help new CNAs find job placement once they complete their training. Additionally, while pay tends to be lower for nursing assistants compared to other medical professionals, with CNA certification, Alaskans can certainly still find a livable wage and can even leverage their certification to become an RN in a shorter amount of time (and for less money).

CNA Certification Requirements in Alaska

As CNAs are typically considered entry-level, the requirements to get started are relatively minimal. Below are the general requirements you’ll need to meet in order to become a CNA in Alaska and get certified:

Eligibility Criteria

To become a CNA in Alaska, you must meet several eligibility requirements. Candidates must be at least 18 years old and typically need a high school diploma or GED. A criminal background check is mandatory to ensure there are no disqualifying offenses. Additionally, most training programs require proof of immunizations and a negative tuberculosis (TB) test to verify your health and safety for the role.

Training Requirements

Alaska mandates that aspiring CNAs complete a state-approved training program. These programs include a minimum of 60 hours of classroom instruction covering essential topics such as patient care, infection control, communication, and ethical responsibilities. Furthermore, at least 80 hours of supervised clinical training in a healthcare setting, such as a nursing home or hospital, are required to gain hands-on experience. Depending on whether you enroll full-time or part-time, the program can usually be completed within 4 to 12 weeks.

Certification Exam

Upon completing the training program, candidates must pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) to earn their CNA certification. The exam consists of two parts: a written or oral test that evaluates your knowledge of CNA responsibilities and a practical skills test where you demonstrate proficiency in essential patient care tasks. To pass, candidates must score a minimum of 70%. Those who do not pass on their first attempt may retake the exam up to three times

Fastest CNA Programs in Alaska

As mentioned, getting certified as a CNA is one of the fastest options for initiating a career in the healthcare industry, and typically only takes a few weeks. Still, some programs in Alaska are shorter than others. Below, we’ve taken the liberty of providing a few of the quickest CNA programs available in Alaska:

Affordable CNA Programs in Alaska

In addition to their fast completion time, many Alaskans can appreciate the thriftiness of choosing a CNA training program as opposed to diving into a nursing career. Unlike a degree program that can cost thousands and does not allow students to receive a full-time job, CNA programs often allow you to work and learn simultaneously. There are often upfront costs associated with the program, though these may be covered by a medical establishment that provides the class in exchange for job placement. Below are a few options for the cheapest CNA programs located in the state:

How Much Do CNAs Earn in Alaska?

While you won’t be making as much as an RN or other medical professional, you will certainly be able to find a CNA salary worth the limited amount of time and money invested into your new career. According to some reports, the average hourly wage for a nursing assistant in Alaska is $28.59, equating to approximately $64,579 annually, with earnings ranging from $18.32 to $44.61 per hour, but this can hinge on a few varying factors.

Factors Influencing CNA Salaries

As you’re likely familiar with, the cost of living and employment trends are vastly different depending on where in Alaska you’re located. Thus, how much you make as a CNA, will likely be very different if you’re based in Fairbanks versus Nome. You’ll also notice that CNAs work in many different medical facilities including hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and many others. The intensity of the duties of a CNA’s position will be much different depending on where they work. CNAs with more demanding positions will have a salary that reflects this.

If you’re looking to increase your potential salary as a CNA, consider a CNA to RN program or developing a CNA specialization for increased salary and employment growth options.

How to Choose the Right CNA Program in Alaska

While it may be tempting to do so, it’s never a good idea to apply to the first CNA training program that comes up online without putting in a little bit of research. You’ll need to make sure that the program not only fits your budget and schedule but also meets the requirements for certification. Here are some things to be aware of:

Accreditation

Selecting a state-approved CNA program in Alaska is essential for ensuring eligibility for certification and employment. Accredited programs meet both state and federal training standards, equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed for the certification exam and practical work. Enrolling in a program without proper approval could lead to wasted time, money, and ineligibility to work as a CNA in Alaska. Prospective students should verify program accreditation through the Alaska Board of Nursing or similar regulatory bodies to avoid potential setbacks.

Program Costs

The cost of CNA programs in Alaska varies depending on factors such as program length, type of facility, and included materials. Tuition typically ranges from $600 to $2,500, with additional expenses for uniforms, textbooks, certification exam fees, and necessary supplies. Some programs may offer financial aid, scholarships, or employer sponsorships to help reduce the financial burden, making training more accessible to aspiring CNAs.

Schedule Flexibility

CNA programs in Alaska often provide full-time and part-time options to accommodate students’ needs. Full-time programs are ideal for those who can commit to completing training quickly, while part-time programs are better suited for individuals balancing work, family, or other responsibilities. Additionally, many programs offer online or hybrid courses, combining virtual learning with in-person clinical training. These flexible options make CNA training more accessible, particularly for students in remote areas or with demanding schedules.

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.