Online CNA Classes in Utah: View Top Schools & Compare Programs

Exploring Utah’s Online CNA Schools

CNA classes can be offered on campus, but if you’re interested in online learning, there are also programs that are delivered in a hybrid format. These types of courses will give you the opportunity to learn healthcare concepts in the online portion of the class, and reinforce your understanding of what you’ve learned in hands-on laboratory experiences provided on campus.

Additionally, you will further take advantage of experiential learning in healthcare facilities, allowing you to see the realities of the work you will be doing. This doesn’t only help you meet the requirements of the program, but it will also prepare you to obtain your license. Here, three reputable schools are spotlighted so you can get an idea of ideal program features to keep an eye out for.

Your Questions, Answered: Common Queries from CNA Students in Utah

You have learned about the schools that offer CNA courses in Utah, but you still may be on the fence about pursuing one. You probably have a lot of unanswered questions too. We provide some of the answers to the most common questions perspective students have to help you make an informed decision, so read on below to find out more.

Are there designated CNA training centers in Utah?

Yes; for instance, Utah CNA Centers offers fast-paced in-person and online classes at affordable prices. Additionally, the center boasts flexible schedules and high certification exam pass rates. You can attend classes at five different locations with daytime, evening, or weekend schedules.

The program also offers a 24-hour externship with long-term care facilities, many of which depend on students to fill open positions.

Another training center is the Ridgeview CNA program in St. George. This program can prepare you with the skills, knowledge and required hours you need to take the state certification test. It encompasses ten weeks of training, including clinical instruction. You can choose class meetings that take place on Monday and Wednesday evenings, Tuesday and Thursday evenings, and Saturdays.

Can I get financial aid for my CNA program?

Yes, you may qualify for financial aid—including scholarships, loans, and grants—to help defray the cost of your CNA education. There are a variety of sources for funding, including the schools offering CNA programs. For example, Snow College has resources for a number of CNA scholarships for both in-state and out-of-state students, first-year students, and honor students.

Also, Southwest Technical College offers funding including the Southwest Tech Scholarship and the Technical Education Scholarship. Additionally, the school’s June Thorley PITU Scholarship is for students who are members of the Paiute Indian Tribe of Utah, and there is needs-based funding through the Southwest Tech Needs-Based Funding scholarship.

Do I need to take an examination to become a CNA?

Yes, as the National Nurse Aid Assessment Program Competency Examination (NNAAP) is a key skills assessment test for all CNAs. The CNA exam consists of written and oral tests to measure your knowledge and skills and includes a clinical test with a trained evaluator to demonstrate your mastery of specific duties and tasks.

Completing this exam allows a state to add your name to the state nurse aide registry. This assures employers that you’ve met federal and state requirements to work as a CNA.

However, some states may mandate additional assessments. Utah, for instance, requires you to take the Utah Nursing Assistant Registry State Certification Exam.

Do I need to renew a CNA license?

Though the requirements for CNA renewal vary by state, most states (including Utah) require CNAs to periodically renew their licenses. This ensures that CNAs are up to date with the latest training and that they maintain their qualifications.

In Utah, you’re required to renew your license every two years. During the renewal period, you’ll need to complete 200 paid, professional work hours under the supervision of a licensed nurse. You will also be required to undergo another background check.

To apply for renewal, you’ll need to visit the Utah Department of Health and Human Services website. Be sure that your paperwork is submitted on time. If you’re late, you will be working on an expired certificate and your employer may be disciplined by the state.

Where do CNAs work in Utah?

As a CNA, you can work in various settings including hospices, hospitals, nursing homes, long-term care facilities, and outpatient clinics. A CNA program can help you become a highly-skilled professional so you can impress employers and land a job, and you will have this wide variety of choices of where to work.

Some organizations that employ CNAs include Copper Ridge Health Care, Orem Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing, MedicalMatch Corporation, and Sandy Health and Rehab. If you are interested specifically in providing hospice care, employers like Ovation Primary Care & Hospice, Enhabit Home Health & Hospice, and Suncrest Hospice hire CNAs.

Utah’s CNA Job and Pay Outlook

Exploring your program options and understanding the certification process are critical steps toward becoming a CNA in Utah. Before you begin your studies, it's also important to consider your salary potential and employment outlook.

Over the next ten years, the CNA career in Utah is anticipated to expand by 27.30%. Compared to the national projected growth rate of 4.2%, this is extremely impressive. Based on this information, it's safe to say that new CNAs will find plenty of attractive opportunities. In terms of annual salary, the job pays anywhere from $30,370 (10th percentile) to $44,770 (90th percentile) across the state. However, Salt Lake City appears to be one of the best places for new CNAs. Here, those in the 10th percentile earn $34,260 per year, which is about $4,000 higher than the state figure. To learn even more about your employment and salary outlook, refer to the tables below.