Online CNA Classes in Arkansas: View Schools, Program Info & More

Understanding Online CNA Classes in Arkansas

Since becoming a CNA is an ideal entry-level position in healthcare, many online CNA classes in Arkansas make it quick and easy to complete a certification, often at a fraction of the cost of other healthcare degrees. The three universities below offer strong options for anyone pursuing the CNA path in Arkansas.

When exploring these three options (or any others in the state), it’s important to pay attention to what can be completed online and what must be done in-person; most CNA programs in Arkansas include in-person clinical hours. Also pay attention to graduation timelines, noting that 2 week CNA programs or 4 week CNA programs are rare.

FAQs for CNA Students in Arkansas

Although becoming a CNA is fairly straightforward, each university is a bit different in courses offerings and the financial aid or scholarships. If you have any lingering questions about taking online CNA classes in Arkansas, here are some answers regarding the cost, requirements, and length of these programs.

How do I become a CNA in Arkansas?

Getting your CNA license in Arkansas involves completing the necessary coursework from one of the programs above or others throughout the state. Once you’ve completed one of these programs, you’ll receive a certificate that qualifies you to take the state’s licensing exam, which you often must finish within a year after graduating. Arkansas uses the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program Competency Examination (NNAAP). The exam includes both written and oral sections, plus a skills demonstration portion. If you pass, your name is added to the Arkansas nurse aide registry, and you can start practicing as a CNA.

Are there free CNA classes in Arkansas?

Human Development Centers in Arkansas work with people who have developmental and intellectual disabilities, including providing them with free CNA classes. If you qualify for its programs, you can take CNA classes for free in Arkansas at all five of the state’s Human Development Centers, located in Arkadelphia, Booneville, Conway, Jonesboro, and Warren. To qualify for free training, you’ll need to be a new hire in a direct care position at one of these facilities. This includes helping patients with personal care, daily activities, and recreational activities. Even if you don’t qualify for free CNA classes, there are other ways to bring down the cost, such as applying for financial aid, choosing a more affordable CNA program, or opting for an online program, which lets you save on transportation costs.

How long is CNA school in Arkansas?

In Arkansas, the length of CNA education depends on the training program you attend. Some programs are just a few hours while others are much longer and have an in-person training component. By Arkansas law, your training is required to last at least 75 hours. While it is possible to find programs as short as two weeks, those programs are quite intense and difficult if balancing work and personal responsibilities. Slightly longer programs are easier to find and can still be completed quickly, usually within four to 12 weeks. If the timeline is important to you, ask an admission’s counselor how long a program is before applying.

Do I have to renew my CNA license in Arkansas?

In Arkansas, your CNA license is good for 24 months before you must renew. Renewing your license is vital, because you aren’t eligible to keep your job as a CNA without an active license. Your employer relies on you to regularly renew your license. Many students also opt to take continuing education courses to build their resume and may even enter a nursing bridge program to further advance their career. Other than renewing your license annually, where you take your CNA license and healthcare career is entirely up to you.

How much do CNA classes cost in Arkansas?

There’s no exact cost for all CNA programs in Arkansas. That said, most programs are between $500 to $1,500. Students may be responsible for additional fees, such as the price to pass a background check, the cost for scrubs, and the price for course textbooks. If the cost is a burden, students can apply for financial aid, including scholarships specifically for CNA programs. The Arkansas Department of Human Services also offers tuition waivers for veterans and individuals who meet certain requirements, such as being on Medicaid or being unemployed for twelve months.

Salary & Career Overview for Arkansas CNAs

Becoming a certified nursing assistant (CNA) in Arkansas can lead to a rewarding career. The job growth rate in the state (4.30%) is slightly above the national average (4.20%). This suggests that CNAs in Arkansas may find it easy to apply for jobs, as there are a healthy number of open roles in the state. It also indicates there may be opportunities for career advancement, such as employer tuition reimbursement programs for CNAs who want to take continuing education courses in nursing or apply for leadership roles. On average, a CNA earns about $25,990 to $37,610 annually. Nurses in certain areas, including the Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers area and Little Rock, often earn above this range. Education and experience may also help a CNA reach the 90th percentile in terms of salary. Some areas in the state, such as Jonesboro, offer salaries that fall below the state average.