Key Points
- Illinois CNA jobs are projected to grow 5.1% from 2024 to 2029.
- Cook County nursing assistant jobs will see double-digit growth through 2030.
- Oakton Community College offers IDPH-approved CNA classes near Des Plaines.
Your Complete Guide to CNA Training in Des Plaines, Illinois
Compare accredited CNA programs in Des Plaines: tuition, clinicals, and job outcomes to launch your nursing career.
The Chicago metropolitan area is projected to add thousands of nursing assistant positions by 2030, fueled by an aging population and the expansion of major hospital networks like Advocate Aurora Health and NorthShore University HealthSystem. Des Plaines, located in Cook County, sits at the center of this demand, offering aspiring CNAs access to stable employment, relatively short training timelines (often four to eight weeks), and clear pathways into registered nursing or specialized care roles.
Most programs in the area balance affordability with clinical quality, but not all hold current approval from the Illinois Department of Public Health, the credential employers verify before hiring. Tuition, schedule flexibility, and clinical site partnerships vary widely, making program selection a decision shaped by your work schedule, budget, and career timeline.
Local CNA Job Market in Des Plaines: Employers, Demand, and Salaries
Des Plaines sits in the heart of the Chicago metropolitan area, giving aspiring CNAs access to one of the largest healthcare job markets in the Midwest. The region's mix of hospitals, long-term care facilities, rehabilitation centers, and home health agencies creates steady demand for certified nursing assistants year-round.
Major Employers in the Area
Healthcare employers in and around Des Plaines range from large hospital systems to smaller specialized care facilities. Hospitals in the northern Chicago suburbs regularly post CNA openings, and many offer competitive starting wages along with benefits packages that include health insurance, tuition assistance, and retirement plans. Skilled nursing facilities and memory care communities also employ significant numbers of nursing assistants, often providing flexible scheduling options that appeal to students balancing work with other responsibilities.
To get a sense of who is hiring, explore job boards filtered by location, such as those listing opportunities near CNA classes in Chicago, or visit the career pages of healthcare systems operating in the area. Many facilities list starting pay ranges directly in their job postings, which can help you compare opportunities before completing your training.
Understanding CNA Wages
Nursing assistant wages in the Chicago metro area tend to be higher than the national average, reflecting the region's cost of living and strong demand for healthcare workers. Entry-level positions typically offer hourly rates that increase with experience, shift differentials for evening or overnight work, and opportunities for overtime. Some employers also provide sign-on bonuses during periods of especially high demand.
For the most accurate and current wage data, the Bureau of Labor Statistics publishes Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics that break down median earnings by metropolitan area. Searching for nursing assistants in the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin metro area will give you a reliable benchmark to compare against individual job offers.
Job Placement Support from Training Programs
Many CNA programs in Illinois, including those near Des Plaines, offer job placement assistance as part of their curriculum. This support can include resume workshops, interview preparation, and connections to local employers actively seeking new graduates. Some schools maintain relationships with nearby healthcare facilities that regularly hire their students upon certification.
When researching training options, ask about career services and job placement rates. Schools often publish this information on their websites under program pages or career services sections. Speaking directly with admissions staff can also reveal whether the program hosts hiring events or maintains employer partnerships.
Staying Informed About Demand
Healthcare employment trends shift over time, so staying informed helps you make strategic decisions about your career. Professional associations focused on long-term care and healthcare staffing often publish industry reports and maintain employer directories. These resources can help you identify growing sectors within the CNA field and target your job search accordingly.
Questions to Ask Yourself
Are you comfortable with the physical demands of lifting and moving patients?
CNAs regularly assist patients with mobility, transfers, and repositioning, often lifting 50 pounds or more. If you have back problems or difficulty with sustained physical activity, this career may pose challenges worth considering before enrolling.
Can you handle the emotional stress of working with ill or elderly individuals?
You will witness patients in pain, confusion, or at end of life stages. Building emotional resilience and healthy coping strategies helps CNAs avoid burnout while providing compassionate care over the long term.
Do you have the schedule flexibility for shift work, including weekends and holidays?
Healthcare facilities operate around the clock, and many CNA positions require rotating shifts, overnight hours, or holiday coverage. Consider how this schedule might affect family responsibilities or other commitments.
Are you motivated by making a direct, hands on difference in patients' daily lives?
CNAs provide essential personal care like bathing, feeding, and companionship. If meaningful patient interaction and seeing immediate results from your work energizes you, this career offers daily opportunities for impact.
CNA Training Options in and Around Des Plaines: Online, Hybrid, and In-Person
Choosing between an in-person program that runs five days a week or a hybrid schedule that fits around your current job will shape both your training timeline and your total cost. Des Plaines and its surrounding suburbs offer several Illinois Department of Public Health-approved CNA classes, each with distinct schedules, delivery formats, and clinical placement arrangements. Understanding these differences helps you select a program that aligns with your schedule, budget, and learning preferences.
Oakton Community College: The Local Community College Option
Oakton Community College in Des Plaines operates one of the most established CNA programs in the region. Its Basic Nurse Assistant Training program is approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health and delivers 8 credit hours of instruction across one semester. Students complete 80 hours of classroom and lab instruction alongside 40 hours of clinical practice in local nursing homes.
Oakton offers hybrid and face-to-face delivery modes, with classes scheduled during the day, evening, and weekend sessions. Tuition is $999, though students should budget an additional $469 for required supplies and materials. The program typically wraps up in one semester, making it a practical choice for students who prefer the structure and credibility of a community college.
Clinical placements occur in nearby long-term care facilities, giving students hands-on experience in settings where many CNAs begin their careers. Because Oakton holds state approval, graduates are eligible to sit for the Illinois Nurse Aide Competency Exam immediately upon completing the program.
Jethro Healthcare School: Flexible Scheduling for Working Students
Jethro Healthcare School, also located in Des Plaines, offers an in-person CNA program with multiple schedule tracks designed for students managing work or family commitments. Total program cost is $1,253, covering tuition, instruction, and clinical training.1
The school operates three distinct schedule options:
- Day track: Runs 16 weeks, ideal for students who can dedicate weekday hours to training.
- Evening track: Compresses the program into 6 weeks, meeting on weeknights for students working daytime jobs.
- Weekend track: Extends training over 10 weeks, accommodating those who need weekdays free.
All tracks are delivered in person, with no online or hybrid components. This structure provides consistency and direct instructor access but requires students to arrange their schedules around fixed class times. The school's approval status and clinical partnerships should be verified directly with the institution before enrollment.
Programs in Neighboring Towns: Elk Grove Village, Mount Prospect, Arlington Heights, and Park Ridge
Des Plaines sits at the center of a cluster of suburbs with additional CNA training options. Students in Elk Grove Village, Mount Prospect, Arlington Heights, and Park Ridge often consider programs within a 15-minute drive, expanding their choices for schedules and clinical sites.
While specific program details for these towns were not fully available at the time of publication, prospective students should contact local high schools, community colleges, and healthcare training centers to inquire about IDPH-approved programs. Many suburban programs offer evening or weekend tracks and arrange clinicals at nearby hospitals or long-term care facilities.
The Critical Importance of State Approval
Enrolling in an Illinois Department of Public Health-approved program is not optional. Only graduates of approved programs are eligible to take the state competency exam and earn their CNA certification. Attending a non-approved program means you will not be able to work legally as a CNA in Illinois, regardless of how much training you completed or how much you paid.
Before signing any enrollment agreement, confirm that the program appears on the IDPH's official list of approved nurse aide training programs. This single step protects your investment and ensures you can practice immediately after passing the exam.
Hybrid and Online CNA Options Serving Des Plaines
Oakton Community College's hybrid format allows students to complete some coursework online while attending in-person skills labs and clinicals. This model reduces the number of required on-campus sessions without sacrificing hands-on training quality.
Fully online CNA programs do not exist in Illinois because state regulations require supervised clinical practice and skills demonstrations. Any program advertising "100 percent online" training does not meet Illinois certification requirements. Hybrid programs balance flexibility with the in-person components mandated by the state, offering the best of both approaches for students with demanding schedules.
When evaluating hybrid options, ask how many on-campus sessions are required, where clinicals take place, and whether the program's approval status extends to its online components. A legitimate hybrid program will provide clear answers and documentation of its IDPH approval.
Most employers in Illinois require proof of completion from an Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) approved program before you can sit for the competency exam. Always verify a program's approval status on the IDPH website or by calling the school directly before you enroll.
Related Articles
Illinois CNA Certification Requirements: Steps to Get Licensed
Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Illinois involves balancing time investment with credential validity. Rush through an unapproved program and you may save a few weeks, only to discover your training does not qualify you for the state exam. Understanding the official requirements from the start helps you choose a program that leads directly to employment.
Complete an IDPH-Approved Training Program
The Illinois Department of Public Health mandates 120 hours of training for CNA certification. This breaks down into 80 hours of classroom instruction covering topics like infection control, patient rights, communication skills, and basic nursing procedures. The remaining 40 hours consist of supervised clinical practice in an actual healthcare setting where you perform hands-on care under instructor guidance.
Before you begin any clinical work, you must complete at least 16 hours of preclinical training. Illinois also requires a minimum of 12 hours dedicated to dementia care, reflecting the growing need for memory care expertise in long-term care facilities. The entire program must span at least 21 days, and you need to finish all training within 120 days of starting.
To enroll, you must be at least 16 years old and have completed eight years of grade school. Most programs verify these requirements during registration.
Pass the Two-Part Competency Exam
After completing your training, you must pass a state-approved competency examination. This test has two components that you can take on the same day or schedule separately.
The first part is a written knowledge test covering the material from your classroom instruction. If you have difficulty reading, you may request an oral version of this exam. The second part is a skills demonstration where you perform selected nursing assistant tasks in front of an evaluator. Common skills include taking vital signs, positioning patients, and assisting with personal hygiene.
You need a score of at least 70 percent on each portion to pass. The exam fee is 85 dollars, and you have three attempts to pass both sections. If you do not succeed after three tries, Illinois requires you to repeat the full 120-hour training program before testing again.
For students in the Des Plaines area, testing sites operate throughout the Chicago metropolitan region. Check with your training program for current scheduling options, as many approved schools can help you register for a nearby location or even host testing on their campus.
Get Listed on the Health Care Worker Registry
Passing your exam is not the final step. You must be listed on the Illinois Health Care Worker Registry before any licensed healthcare facility can legally employ you. This registry confirms your certification status and background check results to potential employers.
The listing process typically happens automatically after you pass your competency exam, but you should verify your status online within a few weeks. Employers check this registry during the hiring process, so an unlisted candidate cannot begin work regardless of their exam results.
To maintain active status on the registry, you must work at least 8 hours as a CNA within every 24-month period. If you let your certification lapse, you may need to retrain and retest.
Complete Additional Requirements
Illinois requires a criminal background check for all CNA candidates. Certain convictions may disqualify you from working in healthcare settings, so address any concerns before investing in training. Many programs include the background check fee in their tuition package, while others charge separately.
Most employers also require a physical exam and proof of immunizations before you start working. Some training programs bundle these health screenings into their enrollment process, saving you time and ensuring you meet all requirements before graduation. When comparing programs around Des Plaines, ask whether background checks and health clearances are included or if you will need to arrange them independently.
Accreditation is not just a formality. It directly determines whether you can sit for the Illinois competency exam and qualify for state certification, which employers require before hiring. Before enrolling in any program, confirm its current approval status through the Illinois Department of Public Health's online directory.
Illinois is projected to see 5.1% growth in nursing assistant jobs between 2024 and 2029, outpacing the national rate of 2% projected through 2034, according to the Illinois Board of Higher Education and the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That steady demand makes CNA one of the more reliable entry points into healthcare right now.
Top CNA Programs Serving Des Plaines Students
A CNA program is a structured training course that combines classroom instruction with hands-on clinical practice to prepare students for the Illinois Nursing Assistant Certification exam. For Des Plaines residents, several programs in the surrounding area, such as those offering CNA classes in Elgin, IL, provide pathways to certification, though prospective students should research each option carefully to find the best match for their schedule, budget, and learning style.
Verifying Program Approval with the Illinois Department of Public Health
Before enrolling in any CNA training program, visit the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) website to confirm that the program holds current approval from the state. IDPH maintains an official list of approved CNA training programs, and only graduates of these approved programs are eligible to take the Illinois certification exam. Program approval status can change, so check the IDPH site directly rather than relying solely on a school's marketing materials. If a program you are considering does not appear on the IDPH list, contact the school's admissions office to clarify its status or consider other options. This step protects your time and tuition investment by ensuring the training you complete will qualify you for certification.
Gathering Details on Program Structure and Schedules
Once you have identified IDPH-approved programs near Des Plaines, the next step is to gather detailed information about program duration, schedule flexibility, and clinical hours. Many schools list these details on their websites, but if the information is incomplete or unclear, call the admissions office directly. Ask how many total hours of instruction the program requires, how many weeks or months it runs, and what schedule options are available. Some programs offer evening or weekend classes to accommodate working students, while others run intensive weekday schedules. Clinical hours, the portion of training spent working with real patients in nursing homes or hospitals, are a critical component, so confirm how many hours are included and where students complete them. Programs that provide multiple schedule tracks or rolling start dates can make it easier to begin training without a long wait.
Researching Student Reviews and Pass Rates
Student reviews and certification exam pass rates offer insight into program quality that official descriptions may not capture. Search for the program on Google Maps or Yelp to read feedback from recent graduates. Look for comments about instructor support, facility conditions, and how well the program prepared students for the certification exam. Pass rate data, which shows what percentage of graduates pass the state exam on their first attempt, is one of the best indicators of program effectiveness. Some schools publish pass rates on their websites or in promotional materials, but many do not. If pass rate information is not available online, call the admissions office and ask directly. Programs with consistently high pass rates demonstrate that their curriculum and instruction adequately prepare students for the exam. If a program is reluctant to share pass rate data or cannot provide it, consider that a caution flag.
Understanding Local Employment and Wage Trends
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS.gov) publishes employment outlook and wage data for nursing assistants by metropolitan area, which can help you understand the job market you will enter after certification. Look up Des Plaines or the Chicago metropolitan area to see median wages, employment projections, and the number of CNAs currently working in the region. While these figures are general and do not reflect individual program outcomes, they provide useful context for career planning. Strong employment growth and competitive wages in your area suggest a healthy job market with opportunities for new graduates. Keep in mind that wages and job availability can vary by employer type, with hospitals and specialty clinics often paying more than nursing homes or home health agencies.
Comparing Programs in the Des Plaines Area
Des Plaines students have access to multiple CNA training providers in nearby communities, including those with CNA classes in Aurora, IL. Community colleges, vocational schools, and healthcare systems in the region, such as those providing CNA classes in Joliet, IL, offer programs that meet IDPH standards. When comparing options, weigh factors such as total cost, program length, clinical site quality, and proximity to your home or workplace. Some students prioritize shorter, more intensive programs to enter the workforce quickly, while others prefer longer schedules that allow them to continue working part-time during training. The best program for you depends on your personal circumstances, learning preferences, and career timeline. Taking the time to research and compare your options now will pay off in a smoother training experience and a stronger start to your CNA career.
Projections show double-digit growth for nursing assistant jobs in Cook County through 2030, making CNA certification a smart career investment.
Frequently Asked Questions About CNA Classes in Des Plaines
Got questions? Find straightforward answers below about CNA training in Des Plaines, from costs and class schedules to certification steps.
Full-time programs typically take 4 to 8 weeks,3 while part-time or evening tracks may extend to 3 to 4 months.1 Jethro Healthcare's program, for instance, runs 6 weeks.1 State requirements mandate at least 120 training hours, including 40 clinical hours,3 so the pace may vary based on your schedule.
Yes. Jethro Healthcare offers evening and weekend classes1 specifically designed for students who work or have family obligations during the day. Other local providers may also have flexible scheduling options; it's best to ask each school about their current class times.
Clinical training sites are typically arranged through your CNA program and can include nearby hospitals, nursing homes, and long-term care facilities. Specific hospital names are not listed publicly, but programs frequently partner with major employers in the area. Contact your chosen school to learn about their current clinical placements.
Absolutely. Many programs are designed with flexibility in mind, offering evening, weekend, or part-time schedules that allow you to maintain employment. Jethro Healthcare's evening and weekend tracks are a good example.1 Balancing work and study requires careful time management, but it's a common path for aspiring CNAs.
While exact local figures fluctuate, CNAs in Des Plaines generally earn competitive wages in line with the greater Chicago area. For detailed salary data, including entry-level and experienced rates, refer to the job market section of this guide, which breaks down current earnings and employer demand.