CNA Classes Online in Louisiana: See Top Schools and More

Unpacking Online CNA Classes in Louisiana

If you’re looking for a quick and relatively inexpensive way to jumpstart a healthcare career, pursuing online certified nursing assistant (CNA) classes in Louisiana is a solid choice. This growing field is a great starting point if you’d like to go on to become a licensed practical nurse, registered nurse, or other healthcare professional.

Throughout this section, we introduce two standout online CNA classes in Louisiana and highlight the ins and outs of what you can expect after you enroll. Keep in mind that each of these programs are partially online because CNA training requires a portion of the education to be conducted in person with clinicals or labs. The typical curriculum includes basic healthcare skills such as monitoring vital signs, bathing, feeding, and transporting patients. Some programs even include CNA exam preparation in their courseload, so be sure to carefully examine a program’s curriculum to see if it meets your needs and ambitions.

Finding online CNA classes in Louisiana that align with your academic needs and professional goals is a vital step. Keep reading to see which programs rise to the top and how they can help you launch a healthcare career.

Addressing Key Questions from CNA Students

Even though we’ve touched on some essential information regarding schools, licensing, and job outlook, you still might have a few questions. In the section below, we answer some of our readers’ most pressing concerns. If you still have more questions, be sure to reach out to the prospective schools for answers.

Are there two-week Louisiana CNA programs?

While most programs take between four and 12 weeks to complete, some schools (including Infinity College, highlighted above) offer accelerated two-week training pathways. These condensed programs still cover all the essential information you need while getting you into the healthcare field more quickly. Keep in mind that to qualify for these accelerated programs you must be at least 16 years old, pass a criminal background check, and meet all the immunization requirements. Also, while getting to start a CNA career quickly is a potential benefit of these programs, a potential challenge is the intense curriculum as you will only have two weeks to finish a courseload that is typically four to 12 weeks long. This intensity can also lead to less time for mastery, which could make the CNA exam more difficult.

Can you become a CNA online in Louisiana?

Yes, students in Louisiana can pursue CNA training online. While in-person options are more common, forward-looking schools understand that the flexibility and affordability of online coursework is a major benefit for students. Still, hands-on clinical training is vital — in-person clinical rotations often are a culminating experience for your CNA program. If you are worried about the quality of an online education, make sure to check if your program is approved by the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH). This information should be provided on the program’s webpage, but if not, reach out to the program representative before enrolling. If the program is not approved by the LDH, you will not be able to sit for the Louisiana CNA exam and will be ineligible for licensure.

Can you take the CNA test without classes in Louisiana?

Yes, healthcare workers with formal training or experience in the healthcare field may be allowed to take the Louisiana CNA certification without completing an accredited program. That said, it’s vital that you meet the state’s eligibility requirements and have the knowledge and practical skills necessary to pass the exam.

How can I get my CNA license in Louisiana?

To secure your CNA license in Louisiana, the most common path is that you must first complete a state-approved CNA training program. After meeting those training requirements, you must pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam and submit an application to Louisiana’s Department of Health. Once approved, you can begin working in licensed roles in the healthcare field.

How much does it cost to become a CNA in Louisiana?

The cost of becoming a CNA in Louisiana varies and is influenced by multiple factors. One factor that is particularly impactful is whether your training is a for-credit program. Unfortunately, most CNA programs offer a not-for-credit certificate that although allows you to take the CNA exam, does not allow you to apply for federal financial aid. However, there may be CNA specific scholarships provided by the school, the state, or external organizations, that can help you cover the cost. The tuition rates for CNA training programs are likely the most significant cost, but students can tap into a long list of financial aid options including loans, grants, and scholarships. Additionally, it’s not uncommon for healthcare organizations to offer tuition reimbursement programs.

Income & Career Opportunities for CNAs in Louisiana

Louisiana’s CNA job market is experiencing significant growth. The state’s job growth rate for CNAs is 8.8%, which is more than double the national average of 4.2%. This impressive growth indicates a strong demand for skilled nursing professionals and suggests a promising future for CNAs in Louisiana. Additionally, an estimated 19,570 CNA job openings are projected to become available in the state, further solidifying the positive outlook for this career path.

CNA salaries in Louisiana may be on the lower side. The median salary for the state is just $29,070. However, busy cities like New Orleans typically offer slightly higher median salaries at $31,090 per year. When evaluating CNA salaries in Louisiana, it’s important to remember that the state has a lower cost of living, so your money will stretch further than it would elsewhere. Explore the table below to get a better idea of what you can expect to make as a CNA in Louisiana.