Certified Nursing Assistant Program

Aurora University’s Certified Nursing Assistant program prepares students to provide patient care as part of a nursing team in hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, and other extended care settings. Through this 8-week program, you will gain the foundational knowledge and hands-on training needed to work in the healthcare field.

By successfully completing the CNA program at AU, you will be eligible to take the Certified Nursing Assistant exam through the Illinois Department of Public Health. Our CNA program follows the curriculum required by IDPH, covering topics such as the roles and responsibilities of a nurse assistant, HIPAA laws, infection prevention and safety, transfers, activities of daily living (bathing, dressing, and feeding), specimen collection, and care for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias.

AU’s CNA program is approved by IDPH and exceeds the minimum required hours in the classroom, lab, and clinical setting. This additional time allows you to reinforce key concepts, practice essential skills, and prepare for the state competency exam.

This non-credit program focuses on hands-on training and prepares students for CNA certification rather than academic credit.

Course Schedule

The summer module I cohort of the CNA program takes place Mondays–Thursdays from May 11–July 4, 2026, with coursework at the AU main campus and clinical at Thrive Fox Valley.

Mondays
Clinical: Begins on June 1. Details coming soon.

Tuesdays
Theory/Lab: 9 a.m.–1:15 p.m.

Wednesdays
Theory/Lab: 9 a.m.–1:15 p.m.

Thursdays
Theory/Lab: 9–11:30 a.m.

CPR will also be held after class on a Thursday (exact date TBD).*

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for the CNA program, students must:

  • Have a valid Social Security number or individual taxpayer identification number and provide a copy of the signed card.
  • Complete a fingerprint criminal background check through an IDPH-approved Live Scan vendor.
  • Complete a TB test.
  • Undergo a urine drug screening.

Additional costs related to the program (subject to change):

  • American Heart Association BLS Class Fee: $65
  • Drug Test, Background Check, and Health Requirements: $150**
  • IL Nurse Aide Testing Fee: $85
  • Lab Fees: $60
  • Textbooks: approximately $100
  • Uniform and Shoes: approximately $50
Register Here

*CPR training is only required for those without an American Heart Association BLS card. Any other type of CPR card will not be accepted. If you are unsure if your card is acceptable as proof of being CPR Certified for the CNA program, please email a copy to schoolofnursing@aurora.edu.

**Students are responsible for any additional costs not covered by health insurance.