Online CNA Classes in Ohio: Top Schools & More

Inside Online CNA Classes in Ohio

Are you a high school student with dreams of making a difference in people’s lives? Perhaps you’re a new graduate eager to take your first step into the nursing field. Or maybe you want to transition to a healthcare career. Fortunately, online CNA classes in Ohio offer a convenient solution for everyone interested in healthcare and open the door to a field full of opportunity. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, nursing assistant jobs are projected to grow at a rate of 4% and home health aides at a rate of 17% over the next decade.

If you’ve decided to become a state-tested nurse aide (STNA), which is what Ohio calls CNAs, keep reading for detailed profiles of the best online CNA classes in Ohio. Many community colleges offer affordable options with online lectures and in person clinical experiences. Most CNA programs cannot be conducted fully online because it is required by the state to complete hands-on training in a clinical setting. However, many programs offer flexible times for these clinicals to be completed like weeknights or weekends. Keep reading to see how these programs generally work and what they have to offer.

Responding to Common Questions from CNA Students

Are you considering becoming a CNA in Ohio but have questions about the process? From training and certification requirements to costs and career opportunities, we’ve got you covered. Below, you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions prospective students ask to help you get started confidently.

Are there free STNA courses in Ohio?

Yes, there are free STNA courses in Ohio, although they may not be online. These programs are designed to help individuals enter the healthcare field without significant upfront costs. For example, ProMedica offers a free STNA course throughout their several locations in Ohio, including Toledo. The program covers tuition, testing fees, scrubs, and classroom materials. The program also includes financial coaching and assistance in finding employment upon course completion. Goodwill Columbus also provides free job training, including STNA certification courses, to those looking to enter healthcare fields. They often partner with local healthcare facilities to offer hands-on clinical training. The program is geared toward individuals with financial need or barriers to employment.

How long does it take to become a CNA in Ohio?

You can complete nurse aide training in as little as two and a half weeks, and there may also be four-week CNA classes. Many CNA classes average eight weeks in length. Ohio allows nurse aides in training to work for up to four months while they finish their classes and/or take the exam. Ohio requires candidates to complete at least 75 hours of training, which includes 16 hours of hands-on clinical experience. After completing the course, candidates must pass the Ohio Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation, which includes written and skills tests.

How much is it to get your STNA in Ohio?

The cost of becoming an STNA in Ohio varies based on the training program and resources available. Most programs cost around $600 to $1,200 for tuition, with additional expenses for tools, scrubs, and supplies such as stethoscopes and blood pressure cuffs. Some programs may bundle these costs into the tuition, while others charge them separately. The National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam, required for certification, costs $104 for the first attempt, with extra fees for retakes.

Fortunately, financial aid options, such as scholarships, employer-sponsored training, and state funding, can help offset costs. For example, many nursing homes and healthcare facilities offer free or reimbursed STNA programs in exchange for a work commitment.

What topics are covered in online Ohio CNA courses?

In addition to basic nursing skills, online Ohio CNA courses provide students with foundational knowledge in key healthcare areas. Topics include infection control, safety procedures, residents’ rights, communication techniques, and proper documentation. Students also learn about body mechanics to prevent injuries, human anatomy, disease processes, and changes in a patient’s condition. Practical skills taught include taking and recording vital signs, assisting with personal hygiene, feeding, and mobility support, such as transferring residents manually or with mechanical lifts.

Courses emphasize patient-centered care, teaching students how to maintain dignity and respect while addressing residents’ physical and emotional needs. Other covered areas include managing dementia care, handling emergencies, and working effectively as part of a healthcare team.

What is the difference between STNA and a CNA?

According to CareRev, there is essentially no difference between an STNA (State-Tested Nursing Assistant) and a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant), aside from the title used in specific states. Ohio is the only state that uses the designation “State-Tested Nursing Assistant,” while most other states refer to the role as a CNA. Both positions involve the same responsibilities, including assisting patients with daily living activities, monitoring vital signs, and providing compassionate care in healthcare settings like nursing homes, hospitals, and assisted living facilities.

The training and certification processes are nearly identical, requiring completion of a state-approved nurse aide program and passing a competency exam. In Ohio, the term “state-tested” emphasizes the successful completion of the Ohio Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation Program.

Overview of CNA Salaries & Job Outlook in Ohio

You’re clear on what it takes to become a CNA in Ohio, but now it’s time to explore the outlook for graduates entering the field. Nationally, the career is expected to grow by 4.2% over the next ten years. Growth in Ohio is significantly slower, however, with a projected increase of 1% over the same period. Although any positive growth is generally a good sign, this much slower rate means that job seekers may find more opportunities outside the state.

In terms of earning potential, CNA salaries statewide range from $30,990 to $46,560 per year, with a median salary of $38,030. But location matters—for example, those in the 90th percentile in Lima earn $50,130, which is about $4,000 more than the top statewide figure. In addition to considering location, CNAs who are after the highest wages can also gain leverage by earning specialized certifications. For a full picture of your prospects, carefully examine the data below.