Key Points
- Gateway Technical College is the primary CNA training provider in Kenosha.
- Kenosha nursing facilities often pay for training in exchange for work commitment.
- Kenosha CNA hourly pay exceeds the national average with shift differentials.
Choose the Right CNA Training Program in Kenosha, Wisconsin
Compare costs, schedules, and requirements for Kenosha CNA programs. Find your best fit today.
Wisconsin's nursing assistant vacancy rate crossed 28% in 2024, and Kenosha County facilities have been among the most active recruiters in the southeastern corner of the state. That shortage translates directly into hiring bonuses, tuition reimbursement, and a shorter path from classroom to paycheck than almost any other healthcare credential, and our guide to landing your first CNA job shows how to make the most of these advantages.
The catch: only training approved by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services counts toward the state registry, and program availability inside Kenosha city limits is narrower than most applicants expect. Cost swings from zero (employer-sponsored) to roughly $1,300 depending on where you enroll, and admission timelines can stretch when clinical seats fill.
Kenosha's Healthcare Landscape and Hiring Demand
Demand for certified nursing assistants across southeastern Wisconsin has remained strong even as broader healthcare workforce dynamics continue to shift. Kenosha sits at a crossroads of residential growth and an aging population, and that combination keeps facilities actively seeking entry-level caregivers.
Where CNAs Work in Kenosha
The local job market draws from a range of healthcare settings. Hospitals, long-term care facilities, assisted living communities, rehabilitation centers, and home health agencies all hire CNAs on a consistent basis. Because Kenosha is close to the Illinois border, some graduates of CNA classes in Wisconsin also find opportunities in the Chicago metro area, broadening their options considerably.
Settings vary in pace and patient population, so it is worth thinking about which environment fits your personality. Hospital roles often move quickly and involve a wider variety of patients, while nursing homes and assisted living facilities tend to offer more continuity with the same residents over time.
Finding Real-Time Hiring Data
Because job demand figures change frequently, the most reliable approach is to check current sources directly:
- Job boards: Search Indeed or LinkedIn using "CNA" and "Kenosha, WI" to see how many positions are open right now and which employers post most often.
- Employer websites: Visit the careers pages of major regional health systems operating in the area to see posted openings and read about benefits packages.
- Official projections: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics publishes occupational employment data by metro area, and Wisconsin's Department of Workforce Development releases nursing assistant projections for the state. Both are free and publicly available.
- Local training programs: Gateway Technical College and other Kenosha-area programs often track where their graduates are hired. Admissions staff can sometimes share placement trends during an information session.
- Industry associations: The Wisconsin Health Care Association and national groups like the National Association of Health Care Assistants publish workforce reports that give context beyond raw job counts.
Checking a mix of these sources gives you both a snapshot of current openings and a longer-range view of where the field is headed in this part of the state.
Wisconsin's nursing assistant vacancy rate hit 28.4% in 2024, meaning more than one in four CNA positions statewide sat unfilled. That shortage is expected to drive thousands of new job openings through the end of the decade, making CNAs one of the fastest growing healthcare support roles in the state, according to the Governor's Task Force on the Healthcare Workforce.
Online and Hybrid CNA Training for Busy Schedules
Fully in-person classes and hybrid formats both lead to the same Wisconsin CNA credential, but the way you spend your study time looks very different. Wisconsin requires a minimum of 75 hours of supervised clinical practice, so no program can be completed entirely online. However, several hybrid online CNA classes let you finish the theory portion from home and reserve your on-site hours for lab skills and clinical rotations.
What You Can Complete Online
Lecture content, medical terminology, anatomy basics, infection control, and patient-rights modules are the portions most commonly delivered through an online learning platform. These modules are typically self-paced or offered through scheduled virtual sessions, giving you the flexibility to study around work or family responsibilities.
In-Person Requirements You Cannot Skip
Skills lab practice and bedside clinical hours must happen face to face. In Wisconsin, the standard clinical requirement is 75 hours, though some programs structure their lab and clinical components differently. Carthage College, for example, lists 16 clinical hours alongside separate lab blocks scheduled in the late afternoon or morning, depending on the session.
Kenosha-Area Programs with Flexible Formats
- Gateway Technical College: Offers its Nursing Assistant program in an online and campus-based hybrid format at its Kenosha campus on 30th Avenue. The program is DHS-approved, totals 2 credits, and costs roughly $358 to $599. Clinical hours total 75.
- Carthage College: Runs a DHS-approved Certified Nurse Aide program at its Alford Park Drive campus. Fall 2026 sessions include evening lab time from 4 to 8 p.m., a schedule designed for students who work during the day.
- Herzing University Kenosha Campus: Located on Seventh Avenue, Herzing holds DHS approval for its CNA program. Contact the campus directly for the latest scheduling options.
- Waukesha County Technical College: Offers a hybrid Nursing Assistant program with 75 clinical hours. Although the campus is farther from Kenosha, it may suit students in the western part of the metro area.
How to Verify State Approval
Before you enroll in any hybrid or online-heavy program, confirm it appears on the Wisconsin Department of Health Services list of approved Nurse Aide Training Programs. A program must hold DHS approval for its graduates to sit for the Wisconsin CNA Exam. You can search the current list on the DHS website or call the department directly. If a program is not on that list, completing it will not qualify you for certification, regardless of how convenient the schedule may be.
Neighborhood Programs: CNA Classes Near Kenosha
If you're looking for a CNA class within driving distance of Kenosha, the reality is that most local students attend Gateway Technical College, with a few additional options in neighboring Racine and Pleasant Prairie.
Gateway Technical College (Kenosha Campus)
Gateway's Nursing Assistant Technical Diploma is the anchor program for the region. It's a 2-credit technical diploma delivered through a combination of classroom instruction, skills lab, and clinical rotations at local hospitals and nursing homes.1 Expected costs for the 2024-2025 year:
- Tuition and fees: $370
- Books and supplies: $248
- Total program cost: $6181
Classes run year-round on both day and evening schedules1, which helps students who are working or managing family responsibilities. Keep in mind that this program is not federal financial aid eligible, so most students pay out of pocket or use employer sponsorship. The Kenosha campus sits just off Highway 50 near I-94, an easy commute from downtown Kenosha, Pleasant Prairie, and southern Racine County.
Contract for Service Nursing Assistant (High School Track)
Gateway also partners with area high schools to offer a Contract for Service Nursing Assistant program at no cost to eligible students.2 It covers the full 75 training hours required for Wisconsin certification2, making it one of the few genuinely free entry points in the area. Ask your high school counselor whether your district participates.
Nearby Alternatives
Carthage College, despite its Kenosha lakefront location, does not currently offer a standalone CNA program, so students looking for a four-year college setting will need to look elsewhere. For students in Racine, Gateway operates a Racine campus with the same nursing assistant curriculum, and Pleasant Prairie residents are only a short drive from the main Kenosha campus.
Getting There
Kenosha Area Transit runs routes connecting downtown to the Gateway campus, and the Metra Union Pacific North line links Kenosha to Racine for students who prefer that campus. If you're commuting from farther out, evening classes pair well with a daytime job in the healthcare or service sector.
Questions to Ask Yourself
Kenosha offers both fast-track day programs and evening options that spread over more weeks. Lower-cost community college courses typically run on fixed daytime schedules, while some hospital-based programs offer nights and weekends but may charge higher fees.
Most programs arrange clinicals at nursing homes and hospitals within Kenosha County, but some partnerships place students in Racine or Pleasant Prairie facilities. Transportation time and gas costs can add up over a six-week clinical block.
Hybrid CNA programs deliver lecture content online but still require in-person skills labs and clinicals in Kenosha. If you struggle with time management or need immediate instructor feedback, a traditional classroom format may suit you better.
Accelerated full-time CNA courses in Kenosha finish quickly but often run Monday through Friday during business hours. Part-time evening and weekend tracks take three to four months, letting you keep your paycheck while you train.
Free and Low-Cost CNA Training in Kenosha
Paying out of pocket versus enrolling at no cost are two different experiences, and Kenosha-area students have real options for both. If cost is the main thing holding you back, start here.
WisCaregiver Careers: Free Training With a $500 Bonus
The WisCaregiver Careers program is the most direct path to free CNA training in Wisconsin.1 There is no income requirement and no application fee.3 You only need to be at least 16 years old3 and willing to commit to working six months at a participating Medicaid-certified nursing home after you complete training.1
What the program covers:
- Tuition: fully paid, no out-of-pocket cost1
- Books and materials: included1
- State competency exam: covered for up to three attempts1
- Completion bonus: $500 after fulfilling the six-month work commitment2
Gateway Technical College's Nursing Assistant program participates in WisCaregiver, so you can access accredited classroom instruction without paying tuition.4
To get started, register online at WisCaregiver Careers, use the employer map to find a participating facility near Kenosha, get hired, and then complete training. The five-step process is straightforward, and many students move from registration to their first day of class within a few weeks once a facility match is confirmed. Questions? Call 1-833-315-2273 or email [email protected].
Additional Support Through Workforce Resource (FSET)
Workforce Resource, serving Region 7, offers another layer of assistance for eligible students. Through the FSET program, qualifying individuals can receive free training, books, and certification testing, along with a $500 bonus.5 This pathway is worth exploring if you are already connected with employment services or receive FoodShare benefits.
Contact Workforce Resource directly to check eligibility: call 1-877-711-9390 ext. 1516 or email [email protected].
Employer-Sponsored Opportunities
Some local nursing homes and long-term care facilities hire candidates first and then sponsor their CNA training entirely, separate from WisCaregiver. If you are open to working at a specific facility, ask during the hiring process whether the employer covers training costs. This approach can shorten the timeline significantly since the facility handles enrollment logistics on your behalf.
Combining WisCaregiver registration with a proactive job search at area facilities is often the fastest route from application to first class.
CNA Wages and Demand in the Kenosha Area
Nursing assistants in Kenosha earn competitive wages, with mean hourly pay slightly above the national average. Facility-based roles in Kenosha County offer shift differentials and overtime that can boost annual earnings. The table below compares national and local wage data from 2025 and 2026 reports.
| Metric | National (May 2025) | Kenosha Area (2025-2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Median Annual Wage | $42,260 | N/A |
| Median Hourly Wage | $20.32 | N/A |
| Mean Hourly Wage | $20.53 | $20.64 |
| Hourly Wage Range | N/A | $17.14 - $24.85 |
| Average Overtime Pay (Annual) | N/A | $4,938 |
| CNA Minimum Wage (County Facilities, 2026) | N/A | $19.30 |
| CNA Midpoint Wage (County Facilities, 2026) | N/A | $21.93 |
| CNA Maximum Wage (County Facilities, 2026) | N/A | $24.56 |
| Second Shift Differential (per hour) | N/A | $0.75 |
| Third Shift Differential (per hour) | N/A | $1.00 |
Step-By-Step Admission Requirements for Local CNA Programs
Before you enroll, take time to understand what’s needed. Admission requirements vary by school and can change, so a step-by-step approach ensures you don’t miss anything important.
- 1. Review program websitesStart by visiting the official websites of local providers like Gateway Technical College and Carthage College. Each program lists current requirements, typical items include a minimum age (often 16 or 18), a completed background check, up-to-date immunizations, and sometimes a basic skills test or entrance exam. Check carefully, as details differ between programs.
- 2. Confirm statewide standardsThe Wisconsin Department of Health Services and the state’s nurse aide registry set general eligibility rules that apply to all CNA training in the Kenosha area. You can find these through the state’s website to ensure you meet the foundational requirements, such as being able to read, write, and speak English well enough to provide safe care.
- 3. Cross-reference with national resourcesFor additional guidance, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS.gov) and organizations like the National Association of Health Care Assistants provide general overviews of CNA training requirements and links to state-specific information. These can help you understand the typical steps and what to expect, even if they don't list exact program details.
- 4. Contact admissions offices directlyPolicies can change, and schools may update requirements between published cycles. Call or email the admissions office at each program you’re considering to get the most current information. Ask specifically about age limits, background check procedures, immunization mandates, and any required entrance tests. A quick conversation can save time and confirm your readiness.
How to Get Your Wisconsin CNA Certification
Earning your CNA certification in Wisconsin means completing a 120-hour state-approved training program and passing a two-part competency exam. Once you pass, you apply to the Wisconsin Nurse Aide Registry to become active. The process is straightforward, but attention to details like exam fees and test-day requirements will keep you on track.
Step 1: Finish a State-Approved Program
Your training must include at least 120 total hours: 32 hours of hands-on clinical practice and the rest in classroom or lab instruction. Programs in the Kenosha area, as well as those offering CNA classes in Milwaukee, WI and CNA classes in Madison, WI, follow this blueprint, and many include the exam application as part of their completion process.
Step 2: Pass the Competency Exam
The Wisconsin Nurse Aide Competency Exam is administered by D&S Diversified/Headmaster. It has two parts: - Written or oral: You choose the format; the questions cover basic nursing knowledge and safety. - Skills demonstration: You perform 3-4 randomly selected skills in front of an evaluator. The passing score is 71% overall.
The exam fee is $125-$130. Bring a valid photo ID, your training certificate, and the exam registration confirmation. Testing sites near Kenosha are available at local colleges and testing centers: check with Headmaster for current locations. You may attempt the exam up to three times.
Step 3: Apply to the Wisconsin Nurse Aide Registry
After passing, your program or testing site sends your results to the registry. A background check is required; most programs initiate it before testing. Once your name appears on the registry, you are eligible to work as a CNA in Wisconsin. While official 2026 pass rates are not yet published, Kenosha-area training providers anecdotally report strong first-time success, and job placement remains high due to steady healthcare demand.
Your Path to CNA Certification in Wisconsin
Becoming a certified nursing assistant in Wisconsin follows a clear four-step process. The entire path can be completed in as little as 4-12 weeks, depending on the program and exam scheduling.
Top CNA Programs Ranked for Kenosha Learners
Below are the top CNA programs serving Kenosha students, ranked by institutional data, accreditation, and program fit. Each option is evaluated for its relevance to local learners, factoring in location, cost, and hands-on training opportunities.
Gateway Technical College
#1Kenosha, WI · $13,000/yr
Best for: High schoolers in Kenosha dual-credit programs
Gateway Technical College is the only CNA provider located directly in Kenosha, with strong ties to Kenosha Unified School District through dual-credit and contract partnerships. Its low-cost 75-hour technical diploma costs about $599 total, including books, and prepares students for Wisconsin's CNA exam with hands-on simulation labs. An institutional graduation rate of 51% and multiple start dates each year make it a practical choice for local learners.
- 75-hour technical diploma (2 credits)
- Total cost approximately $599 including books and supplies
- Prepares students for the Wisconsin CNA licensure exam
- Hands-on training in simulation labs with medical equipment
- Direct high school partnerships for dual-credit enrollment
- Requires caregiver background check and health screening
- Available fall, spring, and summer semesters
- Minimum age 16 to enroll
William Rainey Harper College
#2Palatine, IL · $12,000/yr
Best for: CNA students needing hands-on lab simulations
William Rainey Harper College in Palatine, Illinois, offers a 6-credit Certified Nursing Assistant certificate with a strong focus on hands-on lab training and clinical experience. While it requires a commute for Kenosha residents, its quality instruction and dual-credit options for high school students make it a competitive option. The college reports a 47% graduation rate and a net price around $11,600.
- 6 credit-hour certificate program
- Hands-on training in state-of-the-art nursing lab
- Clinical experience in healthcare settings
- Approved by Illinois Department of Public Health
- Dual-credit available for high school students
- Requires valid Social Security number and background check
- Not eligible for federal financial aid
- Prepares for Nurse Aide Competency Exam
Oakton College
#3Des Plaines, IL · ~$5,000/yr (est.)
Best for: Career-focused learners needing job interviews
Oakton College in Des Plaines, Illinois, provides an eight-credit Basic Nurse Assistant Training certificate that can be completed in one semester. The program stands out for its strong employer connections, with opportunities to interview with multiple healthcare employers upon graduation, and a high completion rate with most graduates debt-free. The net price is about $5,183.
- Eight-credit certificate program
- Completed in one semester
- Hybrid or face-to-face format available
- Hands-on clinical experiences in hospitals
- Approved by Illinois Department of Public Health
- 99% of graduates without debt
- Financial aid and scholarships available
- Strong career placement support with employer interviews
College of Lake County
#4Grayslake, IL · ~$8,000/yr (est.)
College of Lake County in Grayslake, Illinois, offers a Nurse Assisting Certificate that includes flexible scheduling with day, evening, and online class options, making it suitable for busy adults. The 7-credit program costs about $1,225 and prepares students for the Illinois CNA exam with clinical training in local facilities. The college has a 37% graduation rate and a net price of $7,607.
- 7-credit program available full-time or part-time
- Estimated total cost $1,225
- Flexible day, evening, and online class formats
- Clinical training in local healthcare facilities
- Prepares for Illinois Nurse Aide Competency Exam
- Dual credit and PATH grant financial support available
- Requires background check, drug screening, and medical clearance
- Approved by Illinois Department of Public Health
Waukesha County Technical College
#5Pewaukee, WI · $10,000 – $15,000/yr
Waukesha County Technical College in Pewaukee, Wisconsin, provides a 75-hour Nursing Assistant technical diploma with flexible learning options including daytime, evening, and weekend classes, and year-round start dates. The program costs approximately $500 in tuition plus additional fees for scrubs and immunizations, and graduates earn competitive salaries. The institution has a 44% graduation rate and a net price of $11,101.
- 75-hour program (2-credit technical diploma)
- Multiple learning format options: on-campus and hybrid
- Flexible daytime, evening, and weekend schedules
- Clinical training in nursing homes or hospitals
- Year-round start dates available
- Total program cost approximately $500 plus additional fees
- Open to high school students age 16 and older
- Career pathway to registered nursing studies
McHenry County College
#6Crystal Lake, IL · $4,000 – $14,000/yr
McHenry County College in Crystal Lake, Illinois, offers a Basic Nursing Assistant Certificate that includes 136 hours of instruction over 16 weeks, with 48 hours of clinical experience. The program costs $1,536 for in-district students and graduates are eligible for the Illinois state competency exam. The college reports a 37% graduation rate and a net price of $7,042.
- 7 credit hours over 16 weeks
- 136 hours of instruction with lectures and lab
- 48 hours of clinical experience in healthcare settings
- In-district cost approximately $1,536
- Prepares for Illinois State Nursing Aide Competency Exam
- Requires health care worker background check and fingerprinting
- IDPH approved program exceeding state requirements
- Provides patient contact hours for nursing career advancement
Frequently Asked CNA Questions From Kenosha Students
Below are answers to common questions from Kenosha students pursuing CNA certification. For the most accurate and current information, always check official sources and contact programs directly.
How can I find current CNA certification requirements and reciprocity rules in Wisconsin?
Visit the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) website. It provides the latest details on CNA certification, renewal, and reciprocity if you hold a license from another state.
Where can I get accurate tuition, schedule, and admission details for CNA programs in Kenosha?
Contact local training providers directly, such as Gateway Technical College, since tuition, schedules, and admission criteria can change and may vary by program.
How much does it cost to get a CNA license in Wisconsin?
Costs vary. Program tuition can range widely. Also factor in fees for the state competency exam and license application. For the most reliable figures, reach out to individual programs and check the DSPS website for exam and licensing fees.
What are the typical wages and job outlook for CNAs in Kenosha?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS.gov) offers national and state-specific wage data and employment projections. Local wages depend on experience, employer type, and shift differentials.
Are there professional associations for CNAs in Wisconsin that can help with networking?
Yes, organizations like the Wisconsin Health Care Association provide networking, continuing education, and career resources for CNAs and other healthcare professionals.
Ready to Enroll? Next Steps to Start Your CNA Career
Kenosha's CNA programs are enrolling now, and many report filling their seats within weeks of opening application periods. Taking prompt action gives you the best choice of start dates and schedules.
Contact Programs and Schedule Campus Visits
Reach out to Gateway Technical College and local nursing homes offering in-house training to confirm current session dates, tuition, and class size. Ask to tour the skills lab and meet instructors. Most programs offer information sessions or open houses where you can see the facility and ask questions directly.
Apply for Financial Aid and Gather Documents
If you are pursuing training at Gateway, submit your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as early as possible to unlock grants and loans. For employer-sponsored programs, ask about the WisCaregiver Careers program, which covers tuition and fees for eligible hires at participating nursing homes across Wisconsin. Even if you plan to pay out of pocket, gather your high school diploma or GED, government-issued photo ID, immunization records, and tuberculosis screening results now so you can submit your application the moment you decide on a program.
Download the Official Candidate Handbook
Visit the Wisconsin Department of Health Services Nurse Aide Registry online to download the candidate handbook. It explains the state competency exam, approved training hour requirements, and registry maintenance rules. Reviewing it before enrollment helps you understand what lies ahead.
Act Now
Demand for CNAs in Kenosha remains strong, and training seats are limited. Contact your top-choice program this week, submit your application, and secure your spot in the next cohort.
