Online CNA Classes in Oregon: See Top Schools, Tuition & More

Comparing Oregon’s Online CNA Programs

It’s worth looking deeper into programs to see what you can expect in the classroom, costs, and delivery mode as you decide on the right CNA course for your needs. CNAs provide basic essential care to their patients while working under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) or licensed practical/vocational nurses (LPNs/LVNs), so finding the right program will put you on a strong path to becoming a reliable collaborator in this field.

The convenience of a quality online CNA education program in Oregon can help transform you into an important healthcare professional with ease and flexibility so that you can join these medical teams. These online programs are not entirely virtual, however, as hybrid formats combine digital lessons with in person clinical experience, ensuring that CNA students have the hands-on experience necessary to provide high quality services to patients. To get a better understanding of how these programs work and quality features to keep an eye out for, continue below to see three spotlighted schools suitable for prospective CNA students like you.

FAQs for Oregon’s CNA Students

You may still have questions about taking online CNA classes in Oregon, so we’ve collected and answered frequent questions from prospective students as they prepare to become certified nursing assistants. Keep reading to find out information about program cost, length, prerequisites, how clinical training works in an online setting, and more.

Are there free CNA training programs in Oregon? How much do CNA classes cost in Oregon?

Because there is such high demand for CNAs in Oregon and nationwide, there are a few free CNA programs available in Oregon through various initiatives. For instance, there is a paid training program at the Oregon Veterans Home at the Dalles that includes a substantial sign-on bonus after graduation. Marquis Companies offers a free four-week CNA class with job opportunities and a generous starting wage at one of their facilities upon completion.

Other programs follow a more traditional model; for those that charge tuition, you can expect the cost for these CNA programs to be typically between $600 and $1,700, which may or may not include additional fees and required gear, such as scrubs and appropriate shoes, for clinicals.

Can you become a CNA completely online in Oregon?

Technically, the answer is no: depending on the program, you can complete the classroom instruction online and some of the skills labs, however, the clinicals must be completed on-site. Many CNA classes also require the labs to be done in person. Because you can’t complete all the training online, online CNA courses are considered hybrid.

Always check that your online healthcare program is accredited by a licensing body to ensure that your course will count when you apply for and sit for a certification exam. In Oregon, you’ll want to look at the Oregon State Board of Nursing, and accredited online programs will proudly display their status on their website and materials.

How do online CNA classes incorporate clinical training?

Because clinicals must be done in person, many schools have established relationships with local healthcare facilities that can accommodate the students. These may be hospitals, long-term care centers, or assisted living facilities. Most institutions have one facility with which they partner most regularly. However, in some cases, you may be able to choose an appropriate location near you and get it approved by the school if travel to their clinical site is burdensome.

How long is a CNA program in Oregon?

In Oregon, CNA courses range from 4 to 10 weeks in length and consist of at least 105 hours. Online programs allow you to complete the classroom coursework at your convenience within a certain timeline so you can begin labs and clinicals on-time. On-campus labs and clinicals will involve a regular class schedule. Clinicals usually take place in the latter portion of the program so you can put your skills into action.

What is Basic Life Support (BLS) from the American Heart Association and why is it required?

BLS is a half-day course that you can complete in-person or via blended learning at countless sites nationwide. You may have noticed that our featured programs all require an American Heart Association BLS (Basic Life Support) Provider CPR card, but don’t let that alarm you. Ensuring that students have a basic understanding of CPR allows your nursing assistant class to cover other skills that you’ll need as a CNA. Check out their website for more information about registering or consider starting your certification today with the blended learning course. While you can take the course content online, you must register for an on-site exam for a trainer to observe you practicing CPR.

Salary Potential & Career Growth for CNAs in Oregon

By this point, you're probably ready to start charting a path toward your brand-new CNA career in Oregon. But before you begin, let’s take a look at what you can expect upon graduation. The 10-year projected growth for the career in the state is 13.2%, which is more than three times higher than the projected national rate of 4.2%. This explosive growth means that new CNAs will find plenty of attractive employment opportunities with room for advancement.

Oregon’s CNAs also appear to be well-compensated, with statewide annual salaries ranging from $38,010 to $58,050. Location is a major factor in earning potential, with Salem being the highest-paid area in the state. Here, CNAs in the 90th percentile earn $62,600 per year. Conversely, Medford seems to pay the least, with earnings ranging from $37,010 to $48,570. Discover what other areas have to offer by perusing the data below.