Key Points
- Arkansas CNAs earn a median annual wage of $30,780.
- ASU-Newport's program is the most accessible CNA training in Jackson County.
- State certification requires four to twelve weeks of OLTC-approved training.
Become a Certified Nursing Assistant in Newport, AR
Explore CNA classes in Newport, AR. See tuition, class schedules, and how to get certified.
Arkansas requires a minimum of 75 hours of state-approved training before you can sit for the CNA certification exam, and in Newport, ASU-Newport is the primary local program meeting that requirement. Newport's healthcare sector is smaller than Little Rock or Jonesboro, but facilities like local long-term care centers and regional medical providers hire CNAs consistently, making the credential useful without requiring relocation.
A practical tension for many prospective students here is balancing cost against timeline. Program fees, state exam costs, background checks, and health screenings can add up faster than tuition alone suggests. Understanding the full picture, including financial aid options and nearby alternatives, is essential before you commit.
Median wages for Arkansas nursing assistants sit around $30,780 annually, modest but stable, and the field offers a clear on-ramp into higher-paid clinical roles for those who pursue further credentials.
CNA Job Market in Newport: Employers Hiring Now
Newport sits in the heart of Jackson County, and while it is a smaller city, its healthcare sector punches well above its size. Demand for certified nursing assistants here has remained steady and active4, driven by a cluster of facilities that collectively need reliable front-line caregivers year-round.
The Anchor Employer: Unity Health-Newport
Unity Health, formerly known as Harris Medical Center, is the largest healthcare employer in the region. Its Newport campus is a 133-bed hospital1 that anchors care for a six-county service area2. Across its full network of four hospitals and thirteen clinics1, Unity Health employs around 2,300 people2, and CNAs are a consistent part of that workforce. Entry-level openings at the Newport campus tend to appear regularly on the system's careers page1, covering roles in acute care, med-surg floors, and support units. Unity Health also operates a home care division through LHC Group6, which means CNAs who want to work in a community-based setting rather than a hospital floor have a path for that as well.
Long-Term Care and Rehabilitation Facilities
Beyond the hospital, Newport has several long-term care and rehabilitation employers actively looking for CNAs:
- St. Michaels Healthcare: Located at 1311 North Pecan St.3, this long-term care facility3 provides ongoing residential support for older adults who need daily assistance.
- The Blossoms at Newport Rehab and Nursing Center: A rehabilitation and nursing center that has been actively hiring4, offering CNAs experience across both short-term rehab and long-term residency units.
- Oakdale Country Estate: Another long-term care option5 in the area where CNAs assist residents with personal care, mobility, and daily routines.
What the Work Actually Looks Like
In these settings, CNAs handle the hands-on work that keeps patients and residents comfortable and safe. A typical shift might involve helping residents with bathing, dressing, and eating, monitoring and recording vital signs, assisting with mobility and transfers, and communicating changes in a patient's condition to the nursing team. In a rehabilitation setting, that work also supports patients working toward recovery goals. In home care, you work one-on-one with a client in their own home, which many CNAs find especially rewarding.
Why Training Quality Matters Here
Because Newport's employers span hospital, long-term care, and home health settings, they look for CNAs who are well-prepared for all three environments. Completing a program that carries Arkansas Office of Long-Term Care approval is not just a checkbox. It signals to these employers that you received standardized, competency-tested training. The facilities listed above are the same ones that CNA graduates from local programs end up working in, which makes selecting the right CNA training in Arkansas a direct investment in your local job prospects.
Asu-Newport CNA Program: Tuition, Schedule, and OLTC Approval
How much does the CNA program at ASU-Newport actually cost, and what does the schedule look like from start to finish?
Arkansas State University-Newport (ASU-Newport) offers one of the most accessible CNA training options in Jackson County. The program awards a Certificate of Proficiency in Nursing Assistant and can be completed in approximately eight weeks of in-person instruction.1 Here is what you need to know before you enroll.
Total Program Cost
The published total program cost for the 2025-2026 academic year is roughly $1,225.1 That figure is built on a per-credit rate of $175.2 On top of tuition, expect to budget for several additional expenses:
- Books and supplies: Required textbook, scrubs, a watch with a second hand, and a stethoscope.
- Background check: A criminal background check is mandatory before you can begin clinical rotations.3
- Certification exam fee: The state competency exam carries its own fee, which is separate from tuition.
The good news is that the program is Pell Grant eligible, and it is also approved under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).1 Both pathways can significantly reduce or even eliminate your out-of-pocket costs. Contact the ASU-Newport financial aid office early, because WIOA funding in particular is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis through your local Arkansas Workforce Center.
Class Schedule and Start Dates
ASU-Newport typically offers daytime CNA cohorts, with some semesters including evening or hybrid scheduling options. Because the program runs only eight weeks, multiple start dates may be available throughout the fall, spring, and summer terms. Specific upcoming start dates are published on the ASU-Newport website and through Arkansas JobLink. Checking both sources is a smart move, since seats fill quickly in a program this short.
If you are working or managing family obligations, call the admissions office directly to ask about any evening or weekend sections that may open based on demand.
OLTC Approval and What It Means
Arkansas requires every CNA training program to be approved by the Office of Long-Term Care (OLTC). Graduating from an OLTC-approved program is the only route that qualifies you to sit for the state competency exam and earn your place on the Arkansas Nurse Aide Registry. ASU-Newport holds this approval, so completing the program makes you eligible to test without additional steps. If you enroll in a program that lacks OLTC approval, you will not be able to become certified in the state, no matter how many hours you complete.
Clinical Hours and Placement
Arkansas mandates a minimum of 75 hours of clinical training under the supervision of a licensed nurse. ASU-Newport fulfills this requirement by placing students at local healthcare facilities in or near Newport, which often includes skilled nursing facilities and long-term care centers in the area. Clinical rotations give you hands-on practice with patient hygiene, vital signs, mobility assistance, and infection control before you ever face the skills portion of the certification exam.
Certification Exam Pass Rates
Program-level pass rate data for the state competency exam is not consistently published for every Arkansas CNA program. ASU-Newport has not made a recent pass rate publicly available at this time. You can ask the program coordinator directly for the most current figures, and you should feel comfortable doing so. A program's willingness to share that number is itself a positive sign.
Overall, ASU-Newport delivers a short, affordable, and state-approved path into the CNA profession right here in Newport. Between Pell eligibility and WIOA funding, many students complete the program at little to no personal cost.
Questions to Ask Yourself
Do you feel energized helping people with hands-on daily tasks like bathing, dressing, and moving safely?
CNAs spend most of their shift on direct physical care. If that kind of one-on-one, hands-on work sounds rewarding rather than draining, this role is a strong fit.
Are you ready to start working in healthcare within weeks rather than waiting years to finish a degree?
CNA programs in Newport can be completed in as little as four to six weeks, making this one of the fastest routes into a paying healthcare job.
Do you want a job that will still be in demand a decade from now?
Arkansas has an aging population and growing need for long-term care workers, so CNAs face a job market with strong, lasting demand compared to many entry-level fields.
Can you stay calm, patient, and clear-headed when a resident or patient is frustrated or in pain?
Compassion and communication are core CNA skills. If you struggle with high-stress interpersonal situations, it is worth shadowing a CNA before enrolling to be sure the daily reality fits your personality.
CNA Program Costs and Financial Aid in Newport
The full cost of becoming a certified nursing assistant in Newport includes not just tuition but also registration fees, textbooks, uniforms, health screenings, background checks, and the state exam fee. Understanding all costs helps you budget more accurately and identify which expenses financial aid can cover.
Complete Cost Breakdown for Newport CNA Training
At the Arkansas State University-Newport CNA training program, tuition runs approximately $900 for 2026. Across the Newport area, total program costs typically range from $1,100 to $1,400 when all components are included.1 Beyond base tuition, expect to budget for:
- Registration fee: $502
- Textbooks: $70 to $1002
- Supplies and scrubs: $60 to $1502
- Background check: $35 to $501
- Health requirements: $25 to $100 (covers TB test, immunizations, and physical exam)1
- State exam fee: $120 to $125 (paid to Headmaster LLP for the written and clinical skills test)1
Most students should plan for $1,200 to $1,500 in total out-of-pocket expenses from enrollment through certification.
Financial Aid Options at ASU-Newport
ASU-Newport CNA students may qualify for federal Pell Grants if they meet income guidelines and enroll in eligible programs. The college's financial aid office can help you complete the FAFSA and determine grant eligibility. Payment plans are also available, allowing you to spread tuition over the course of the program rather than paying the full amount upfront.
Arkansas offers Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funding through local workforce development boards.1 WIOA can cover tuition, fees, and supplies for eligible applicants, especially those transitioning careers or facing economic barriers. Contact the Arkansas Division of Workforce Services to check your eligibility and start the application process.
Employer-Sponsored Training and Tuition Reimbursement
Many nursing homes, hospitals, and home-health agencies in the Newport area sponsor CNA training for new hires.1 Under these arrangements, the employer pays your tuition and fees upfront, and you commit to working for the facility for a set period (typically six months to one year) after certification. Some facilities also offer tuition reimbursement if you complete training independently and then join their staff.
Reach out to local healthcare employers directly to ask about current sponsorship programs. Employer-funded training eliminates upfront cost and often guarantees you a job upon passing the state exam, making it one of the most accessible pathways into the profession.
Nearest In-State CNA Programs: Jonesboro, Batesville, and More
Staying local versus commuting to a nearby city can mean the difference between a longer, flexible schedule and an intensive sprint to certification. If ASU-Newport's schedule or cost doesn't align with your needs, several state-approved programs within an hour's drive offer comparable training, often with more frequent start dates or specialized formats.
Jonesboro: Intensive and Full-Package Options
Jonesboro sits about 40 miles north of Newport and hosts multiple OLTC-approved programs. The NEA Career and Technical Center at 1727 S. Main offers a 12-day intensive CNA course priced at $1,126 that runs Monday through Friday, 7:00 am to 3:00 pm, compressing Arkansas's required 90 clinical hours into two and a half weeks. For students who can commit full-time, this accelerated track means you can finish classroom and clinical work before the end of the month. A parallel full-package CNA program at the same location costs $1,072 and includes exam fees bundled into tuition. Both formats appeal to Newport residents who can arrange short-term transportation or temporary lodging, especially if you're eager to start earning quickly.
Batesville: Mid-Range Tuition with Flexible Scheduling
Batesville lies roughly 50 miles southwest of Newport and hosts state-approved training centers with total costs ranging from $700 to $1,100.1 These programs typically spread coursework over four to six weeks, allowing part-time students to balance work or family obligations. While specific schedule details vary by provider, many Batesville schools offer evening or weekend sessions that appeal to Newport commuters. The lower end of the tuition range can save you several hundred dollars compared to intensive formats, making Batesville a practical middle ground if you have reliable transportation and prefer a slower pace.
Searcy: Multiple Pathways and Employer-Sponsored Training
Searcy is about 60 miles west of Newport and offers three distinct options. ASU-Beebe's CNA program at 1800 East Moore Ave charges $700 to $1,0002 and follows a traditional semester-style schedule. White County Medical Center runs its own training, sometimes at no cost to students who commit to employment after graduation, or up to $800 if you enroll independently.2 The AANA Regional CNA Program, OLTC-approved and priced at $8001, serves students across multiple counties. Searcy's employer-sponsored tracks can eliminate upfront tuition entirely if you're willing to work locally after certification, a benefit that may outweigh the longer commute for Newport students seeking debt-free training.
Comparing Costs and Commute Trade-Offs
Newport's own programs typically cost $800 to $1,1003, placing them in the middle of the regional spectrum. Jonesboro's intensive courses run higher but shave weeks off your timeline. Batesville and Searcy programs often cost less and may offer more flexible schedules, but adding 45 to 60 minutes of daily travel increases your total time commitment. If you have family in a neighboring city or can carpool with classmates, the savings and schedule variety can justify the drive. Before committing, confirm each program's OLTC approval status, ask about clinical site locations to avoid surprise second commutes, and inquire whether any partnerships with Newport healthcare facilities exist that might ease your job search after graduation.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for nursing assistants and orderlies across the nation is projected to grow between 2 and 2.3 percent from 2024 to 2034. While this may seem modest, the healthcare industry's constant demand for entry level workers means thousands of new CNA positions will open each year, making it one of the most accessible paths into healthcare for Newport students.
CNA Salary and Job Outlook in Newport, AR
What can you realistically earn as a certified nursing assistant in Newport, Arkansas? According to recent data from ZipRecruiter, nursing assistants in Arkansas earn an average annual wage of $32,050, or about $15.41 per hour.2 National median earnings for nursing assistants stand at $39,530 annually1, so Arkansas wages trend below the national average. Specific wage data for Newport is not yet published by BLS, but nearby metro areas like Hot Springs report median annual earnings around $30,9003, suggesting that Newport-area CNAs likely earn within a similar range.
Factors That Influence Your Pay
Your actual paycheck as a CNA in Newport will depend on several variables. Facility type plays a significant role: skilled nursing facilities and hospitals generally offer higher base pay than assisted living or home health agencies. Shift differentials can add meaningful income if you work evenings, nights, or weekends. Many Newport-area employers offer an extra $1 to $3 per hour for second and third shifts. Experience matters, too. Entry-level CNAs typically start near the lower end of the pay scale, but after one to two years on the job, you may see raises or qualify for lead CNA positions that carry higher hourly rates. Some facilities also provide sign-on bonuses or tuition reimbursement that improve your total compensation package.
Job Outlook and Career Stability
The long-term outlook for nursing assistants remains steady. Nationally, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 2 percent job growth from 2024 to 20341 with approximately 211,800 openings per year1 across the United States driven primarily by replacement needs as workers retire or leave the field. In rural communities like Newport, where the population skews older, demand for long-term care and skilled nursing services continues to grow, reinforcing job security for CNAs.
How CNA Pay Compares to Other Entry-Level Healthcare Roles
Compared to other entry-level medical careers, CNA wages sit at the lower end of the spectrum. Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) in Arkansas, for example, earn median annual wages around $44,000, while medical assistants average about $34,000. However, CNA training is shorter and less expensive than LPN or medical assistant programs, making it a practical first step if you want to enter healthcare quickly and build experience before advancing your credentials.
How to Get Your CNA Certification in Arkansas
Earning your CNA credential in Arkansas follows a clear, state-regulated pathway overseen by the Office of Long-Term Care (OLTC). The entire process typically takes four to twelve weeks, depending on your program schedule and how quickly you complete each step.
Complete OLTC-Approved Training
Arkansas requires a minimum of 75 hours of state-approved instruction, combining classroom theory with hands-on clinical practice. Your program must cover essential topics including infection control, basic nursing skills, safety procedures, communication, patient rights, and personal care techniques. At least 16 of those hours must be spent in a supervised clinical setting, working directly with patients in a nursing facility or similar healthcare environment. Only programs approved by the Arkansas OLTC satisfy this requirement, so verify your school's status before enrolling.
Pass a Criminal Background Check
Before you can sit for the competency exam, you must clear a state and federal background check. OLTC conducts fingerprint-based screening to ensure candidates meet Arkansas health facility staffing standards. Certain felony convictions may disqualify you, so review Arkansas regulations if you have concerns about your record.
Take and Pass the Competency Exam
The Arkansas Nurse Aide Competency Examination has two parts: a written or oral knowledge test with 60 multiple-choice questions, and a hands-on skills demonstration where you perform five randomly selected nursing tasks in front of a certified examiner. You must pass both components of the CNA exam, which Prometric administers at testing sites statewide. Register online through Prometric's Arkansas portal after your training program submits your eligibility paperwork. Most students take the exam within two to four weeks of finishing their course.
Get Listed on the State Registry
Once you pass both exam components, OLTC adds your name to the Arkansas Nurse Aide Registry, the official database employers use to verify active certification. Registration is automatic after a passing score, typically within one to two weeks. You can work as a CNA only while your name appears on this registry in good standing.
Maintain Your Certification
Arkansas certification renews every two years. To keep your registry status active, you must work at least eight hours for pay as a nursing assistant during each 24-month period. If you do not work, you will need to retake the competency exam. Arkansas does not require formal continuing education hours for renewal, but many employers offer optional training to keep skills current and meet federal Medicare or Medicaid standards.
Before you enroll in any CNA program, verify that it holds current approval from the Arkansas Office of Long-Term Care. Only graduates of OLTC-approved training programs are eligible to sit for the Arkansas state certification exam. You can confirm a program's approval status by checking the Arkansas Department of Human Services website or calling the OLTC directly.
Top CNA Programs Serving Newport Students
Below are the top CNA programs serving Newport students, ranked by affordability and program features. These state-approved programs offer classroom and clinical training to prepare you for certification and entry-level positions in healthcare facilities.
Factors considered
- Affordability and financial aid availability
- Clinical placement and proximity to Newport
- State approval and curriculum quality
- Student support and program flexibility
- Graduate outcomes and employer partnerships
Data sources
- Independent program research
- NCES-IPEDS federal institutional data — nces.ed.gov
- College Scorecard graduate earnings — collegescorecard.ed.gov
- Internal program database
Arkansas State University-Newport
#1Newport, AR · $8,000/yr
Best for: Newport-area students seeking local, affordable training
As the only CNA program located directly in Newport, Arkansas State University-Newport offers an eight-week Certificate of Proficiency with hands-on clinical training. The program is available on the Newport campus, as well as Jonesboro, with multiple start dates in fall, spring, and summer. Graduates are prepared for the state certification exam and can access institutional scholarships; the total in-state cost is approximately $1,225, with some cohorts paying around $900.
- Complete the program in just eight weeks
- Blends classroom learning with supervised clinical practice
- Offered at Newport and Jonesboro campuses for flexibility
- Prepares you for the Arkansas CNA certification exam
- Covers vital signs, safety protocols, and basic patient care
- Focuses on compassionate care and patient communication
- Helps you qualify for roles in hospitals, nursing homes, and home health
- Institutional and private scholarships may reduce out-of-pocket cost
University of Arkansas Community College-Batesville
#2Batesville, AR · $8,000/yr (net price)
Best for: Batesville commuters wanting fast-track career entry
Located in nearby Batesville, University of Arkansas Community College-Batesville provides a Nursing Assistant certificate with fast-track options and multiple entry pathways, including programs for high school students and secondary career centers. The campus-based curriculum integrates clinical training in local healthcare settings, covering medical terminology, patient care, and professional ethics.
- Fast-track certificate program for quick workforce entry
- Hands-on clinical training in local healthcare facilities
- Covers medical terminology, patient care, and confidentiality standards
- High school and secondary career center pathways available
- Prepares graduates for immediate employment as nursing assistants
- Student-faculty ratio of 11:1 for personalized attention
- No standardized entrance exam required
Black River Technical College
#3Pocahontas, AR · $5,000 – $7,000/yr
Best for: Working students in NE Arkansas needing weekend clinicals
Black River Technical College in Pocahontas offers a Certified Nursing Assistant program with flexible 5- and 8-week sessions and weekend clinical days, ideal for working students in northeast Arkansas. The campus-based program includes on-site state exam testing, sponsorship funding opportunities, and guaranteed readmission for military students.
- Choose between 5-week and 8-week session lengths
- Hands-on clinical experience with weekend clinical days available
- Eligible for on-site Arkansas State CNA exam after completion
- Opportunities for sponsorship funding to offset costs
- Small class size limited to 24 students for personalized learning
- Guaranteed readmission for military students
- Covers patient care skills, safety, and professional communication
- Career opportunities in hospitals, nursing homes, and other medical facilities
Southern Arkansas University Tech
#4Camden, AR · ~$9,000/yr (est.)
Southern Arkansas University Tech in Camden delivers a Nursing Assistant Certificate of Proficiency that meets Arkansas Office of Long Term Care requirements. The program combines classroom instruction with clinical training in nursing homes, with limited class sizes of 12 students, ensuring close supervision. Applicants must be at least 16, pass a background check, and obtain an Arkansas Health Card.
- 7-credit Certificate of Proficiency approved by the Arkansas OLTC
- Blends classroom learning with clinical experience in nursing homes
- Small class sizes limited to 12 students for focused instruction
- Prepares graduates for the Arkansas CNA certification exam
- Requires Arkansas ID, background check, and Health Card for enrollment
- Open to applicants aged 16 and older
- Provides a direct pathway to entry-level nursing assistant roles
East Arkansas Community College
#5Forrest City, AR · $7,000/yr (net price)
East Arkansas Community College in Forrest City provides a Certified Nursing Assistant certificate that can be completed in about two months for in-county residents at approximately $842. This campus-based program emphasizes quick workforce entry, teaching patient care, medical terminology, and basic nursing skills. The college publishes program outcome data to help students make informed decisions.
- Two-month program for rapid entry into healthcare
- In-county resident tuition approximately $842 for 7 credits
- Curriculum covers patient care, medical terminology, and nursing fundamentals
- Prepares students for the state certification exam
- Campus-based training with hands-on learning
- Program outcome data available to assess success rates
- Certificate of Proficiency awarded upon completion
University of Arkansas Community College Rich Mountain
#6Mena, AR · $5,000/yr
University of Arkansas Community College Rich Mountain in Mena offers a CNA program following the Arkansas Long Term Care Facility Nursing Assistant Training Curriculum. Students learn physical, emotional, and psychosocial care for elderly clients, with an emphasis on safe practices, professional communication, and teamwork. While farther from Newport, its alignment with state standards ensures transferable certification.
- Follows the official Arkansas OLTC training curriculum
- Focuses on elderly client care, including physical and psychosocial support
- Develops professional communication and safe care practices
- Emphasizes teamwork within healthcare settings
- Covers basic nurse assistant skills and activities of daily living
- Campus-based program in Mena, Arkansas
- Prepares students for the CNA certification exam
Ozarka College
#7Melbourne, AR · $0 – $5,000/yr
Ozarka College in Melbourne provides a 4-month, 7-credit Certified Nursing Assistant program that follows state curriculum and includes hands-on clinical training under licensed nurses. The program emphasizes holistic care, ethical practice, and patient rights, preparing graduates for diverse healthcare environments. Advisors are available to assist students, and the program is suitable for those seeking a structured, comprehensive pathway.
- Complete the program in just 4 months
- Earn 7 credit hours toward your certificate
- Prepares you for state CNA certification
- Follows the Arkansas Office of Long Term Care curriculum
- Hands-on clinical training supervised by licensed nurses
- Focus on holistic patient care and ethical practice
- Includes training on vital signs, documentation, and communication
- Advisors available to guide you through the program
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith
#8Fort Smith, AR · ~$11,000/yr (est.)
The University of Arkansas-Fort Smith offers a Nursing Assistant program through its WATC division, integrating with high school schedules and providing clinical experience at the Peak Innovation Center. This two-year program emphasizes practical skills, medical terminology, and vital signs measurement. Graduates can pursue CNA certification and continue to nursing degrees at UAFS, making it a valuable option for those seeking a longer, integrated pathway.
- Two-year program with morning and afternoon session options
- Hands-on clinical training at the Peak Innovation Center and regional facilities
- Prepares students for the CNA certification exam
- Curriculum aligned with Arkansas state standards
- Integrates with high school schedules for concurrent enrollment
- Covers patient care fundamentals, medical terminology, and vital signs
- Pathway to further nursing degrees at UAFS
- Focus on practical, workforce-ready skills
University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana
#9Hope, AR · $9,000/yr
University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana provides a campus-based Certificate of Proficiency in Nursing Assistant that follows the state's long-term care curriculum. Students complete clinical hours, which may include weekends, and must have CPR certification and a health card. While located in Hope, the program's rigorous training and pathway to a Technical Certificate make it a solid option for those willing to relocate or travel.
- Certificate of Proficiency aligned with Arkansas CNA curriculum
- Includes clinical experience with some weekend hours required
- Prepares you for the Arkansas CNA licensure exam
- Requires current CPR certification and health card for clinicals
- Admissions involve health and background checks
- Can serve as a stepping stone to further health professions education
- Campus-based program with hands-on training
Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas
#10Helena, AR · $3,000 – $5,000/yr
Phillips Community College offers a 10-hour Nursing Assistant Certificate of Proficiency across multiple campuses in eastern Arkansas, including Helena and DeWitt. The program covers basic patient care, vital signs, and hands-on clinical experiences, preparing graduates for the National Council Licensure examination for Nursing Assistants. It requires a high school diploma, minimum 2.0 GPA, and health documentation, making it a structured choice for Newport students looking for a comprehensive program.
- 10-hour Certificate of Proficiency program
- Prepares students for the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program exam
- Covers bathing, grooming, vital signs, and basic patient care
- Hands-on clinical training at multiple campus locations
- Requires high school diploma or GED and minimum 2.0 GPA
- Health documentation, immunizations, and drug screening required
- Enrollment is first-come, first-served
- Leads to career opportunities in home health and nursing homes
CNA Training FAQs for Newport Students
Find straightforward answers to common questions about cost, duration, and certification requirements for CNA training in Newport, Arkansas. Whether you're considering ASU-Newport or exploring other options, these FAQs will help you plan your next steps.
The CNA program at ASU-Newport costs $900 in total.1 This fee typically covers tuition, textbooks, background checks, and other supplies. Additional expenses may include a uniform and the state certification exam fee, so plan your budget accordingly. Financial aid may be available to qualifying students.
You must be at least 16 years old, hold a high school diploma or GED, and pass a criminal background check and TB test. Complete a state-approved training program (minimum 90 hours)2 and then pass the Arkansas CNA competency exam, which includes a written test and a skills demonstration.
Yes, the program is state-approved, which means it meets the standards set by the Arkansas Office of Long Term Care (OLTC).3 Graduates are eligible to take the certification exam and, once passed, can work in long-term care facilities, hospitals, and other healthcare settings that require OLTC-approved training.
While no fully free programs are publicly listed, some local nursing homes and healthcare facilities may offer tuition reimbursement or sponsor training in exchange for a work commitment. Check with workforce development agencies and scholarships through ASU-Newport for possible financial assistance.
The demand for CNAs in Newport and the surrounding region remains strong, driven by an aging population and steady turnover in healthcare roles. Hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home health agencies consistently hire certified nursing assistants, offering reliable job opportunities.
ASU-Newport typically offers daytime CNA sessions several times per year, including summer, fall, and spring starts. Class hours usually run Monday through Friday, but exact schedules vary. Contact the ASU-Newport workforce development office for the most current class calendar and availability.
Clinical training takes place at local healthcare facilities such as nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, or hospitals around Newport. These real-world rotations allow students to practice hands-on skills under supervision, ensuring they meet Arkansas's clinical requirements before taking the certification exam.