Key Points
- Colorado Springs CNAs earn a median annual salary of $43,000.
- CNA training costs range from $1,100 to $4,400 locally.
- Complete 75 hours of state-approved training to become certified.
Your Guide to CNA Programs in Colorado Springs, Colorado
Compare affordable CNA training in Colorado Springs: costs, schedules, and certification steps.
Colorado Springs added over 200 CNA job postings in the first half of 2026, driven largely by El Paso County's growing population of adults over 65 and steady expansion at regional employers like UCHealth and Centura Health. With a median annual salary near $43,000 and training programs that can be completed in as few as four to eight weeks, the barrier to entry is low, but choosing the right program still matters. Tuition ranges from roughly $1,100 to over $4,400, and format options now include hybrid online, evening, and accelerated schedules.
Colorado Springs CNA Job Market: Employers and Hiring Trends
CNAs in Colorado Springs earn a mean hourly wage of $20.531, with typical starting rates ranging from $18.00 to $22.00 per hour across hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities. That translates to approximately $42,700 annually for full-time work, with experienced CNAs at top-tier facilities reaching $25.88 per hour or higher.
Major Healthcare Employers Hiring CNAs
Colorado Springs hosts several major health systems actively recruiting certified nursing assistants. UCHealth Memorial Hospital and CommonSpirit Health's Penrose-St. Francis facilities consistently post CNA openings across acute care, telemetry, and intermediate care units, with hourly rates ranging from $18.00 to $25.88 depending on experience and department2. Centura Health operates multiple locations in the region, offering similar wage bands and shift flexibility.
Beyond hospital settings, skilled nursing and post-acute care facilities represent a significant share of CNA employment. Pikes Peak Post Acute, Medallion Post Acute Rehabilitation, The Center at Centennial, Sunny Vista, and Springs Ranch all maintain steady hiring pipelines. Sunny Vista offers PRN positions starting at $22.28 per hour1, while Springs Ranch posts full-time roles at $20.00 per hour. Advanced Health Care of Colorado Springs typically pays $21.00 to $24.00 per hour for CNAs. Even school districts enter the market: Harrison School District Two hires CNAs for 1:1 student support at approximately $22.00 per hour.
Growing Demand and Hiring Incentives
Colorado's aging population drives persistent demand for direct-care staff, and Colorado Springs reflects that trend. Local healthcare employers compete for qualified CNAs by offering sign-on bonuses and retention incentives. Springs Ranch advertises a $500 referral bonus for successful hires2, and UCHealth promotes a three-year incentive bonus structure to encourage long-term employment3. These perks can offset the cost of CNA classes in Colorado.
The combination of competitive starting wages, multiple employer options across care settings, and tangible hiring incentives makes Colorado Springs a solid labor market for newly certified nursing assistants ready to follow this guide to landing your first CNA job.
Flexible CNA Training: Online, Evening, and Weekend Options
Balancing work, family, and school is the central challenge many face during CNA training, and the good news is that Colorado Springs programs have responded with a range of hybrid, evening, and accelerated formats designed to fit tight schedules. One important note before you start comparing: Colorado requires in-person skills practice, lab time, and clinical hours for CNA certification, so no program in the state can be completed entirely online.1 Every option below pairs online coursework with hands-on components.
Hybrid and Accelerated Programs in Colorado Springs
Several local schools offer hybrid formats that let you knock out theory lessons from home before stepping into a lab or clinical site:
- Beo Training Center: One of the fastest paths in the area, with two-week and three-week options. Online theory is paired with in-person skills practice and clinical rotations.4
- Angels of Care Academy: A roughly four-week hybrid program. You complete online lessons during the first two weeks, then attend in-person skills labs and simulation sessions during the final two weeks. Both weekday evening and weekend hybrid tracks are available, making this a strong pick if you work a traditional daytime job.23
- Excel Medical Training Center: Offers a hybrid format that can be completed in about three weeks.
- NoCo Training: Runs a hybrid certified nurse aide program that combines remote coursework with on-site clinical hours.5
Evening and Extended Options
If you prefer a steadier pace or need classes that start after a typical workday, consider these:
- NTSOC (Nursing and Therapy Services of Colorado): An evening hybrid program lasting two to three months. Online theory is supplemented with in-person labs and clinicals. Weekend sessions are not currently offered here, so plan around weekday evenings.1
- Technical College of the Rockies: Provides an online and hybrid nurse aide program that runs approximately two months. Check with the school's admissions office for current scheduling details, as start dates and session times vary by semester.6
How to Find and Verify Program Schedules
Start with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment's list of approved CNA training programs. This confirms a school meets state requirements before you invest time or money. From there, visit each school's website directly to review current schedules, tuition, and format details. You can also use the BLS.gov "Find Training" tool to filter by length and type, but always confirm specifics with the admissions office since online directories can lag behind real-time schedule changes.
Do not overlook local healthcare employers, either. Hospitals and nursing homes in Colorado Springs sometimes run their own CNA training with flexible scheduling and may sweeten the deal with tuition reimbursement or guaranteed job placement after you pass the state competency exam.
Getting Real-World Recommendations
Program websites tell you the basics, but current and former students can fill in the gaps. The Colorado Health Care Association connects healthcare workers across the state and can be a useful networking resource. Reddit forums and local Facebook groups for CNA students in Colorado Springs are also worth browsing. Search for posts about evening, weekend, or hybrid experiences to get honest feedback on instructor quality, clinical site assignments, and whether the schedule truly works for people juggling other commitments.
State-Approved CNA Training Programs in Colorado Springs
Where can I find a list of state-approved CNA programs in Colorado Springs? Locating a reputable program starts with identifying schools that meet Colorado's regulatory standards. The following steps will help you verify approval status, compare features, and connect with programs that fit your schedule and career goals.
Start with the official state list
The Colorado Board of Nursing maintains the definitive roster of approved nurse aide training programs. This list is the single most reliable source because every program on it has met minimum curriculum, instructor, and clinical hour requirements. You can filter by city or zip code to see only programs near Colorado Springs. Each entry typically includes contact information, program length, and the program's current approval status. Always check the board's list first before reaching out to any school; if a program is not listed, it cannot qualify you to sit for the state competency exam.
Dig deeper on individual program websites
Once you have a list of approved options, visit each school's website directly. Look for details that the state list does not always include: session start dates, whether they offer daytime, evening, or weekend cohorts, and any job placement support.
- Pass rates: Some schools publish their recent CNA exam pass rates on their sites. If not, you can often request this data from the state board or ask an admissions counselor. A high pass rate generally indicates strong instruction.
- Regional context: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS.gov) provides metro-level employment and wage data for nursing assistants. While this won't tell you about a specific school's outcomes, it gives you a realistic picture of the local job market you will be entering.
Tap into employer and industry referrals
Healthcare employers who hire CNAs often have firsthand knowledge of which training programs produce work-ready graduates. The Colorado Health Care Association and individual skilled nursing facilities in the Colorado Springs area can be excellent referral sources. These organizations track which programs' graduates pass the state exam and succeed during their first months on the job. Even a short phone call to a local nursing home's human resources department can yield a short list of programs they trust.
Use directories for side-by-side comparisons
Online directories can help you compare program features across multiple schools at a glance: costs, schedules, and delivery formats. However, these platforms may not always reflect the most current state approval status. After building a shortlist, double-check each program on the Colorado Board of Nursing's website to be certain it holds active approval. This extra step protects you from enrolling in an unapproved or expired program.
By combining these strategies for finding CNA classes, you can confidently identify a Colorado Springs program that aligns with your timeline and career plans.
Related Articles
CNA Salary & Employment Outlook in Colorado Springs
The table below presents 2024 employment and salary figures for Nursing Assistants in the Colorado Springs metropolitan area and several other Colorado metros. In Colorado Springs, CNAs across all industries earn a median annual salary of $43,000, with total employment of 4,410. These numbers provide a snapshot of the local job market for newly certified professionals.
| Metro Area | Total Employment | Median Annual Salary | 25th Percentile Salary | 75th Percentile Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado Springs, CO | 4,410 | $43,000 | $39,150 | $44,760 |
| Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO | 9,680 | $47,000 | $44,890 | $49,090 |
| Fort Collins-Loveland, CO | 1,780 | $44,650 | $41,030 | $47,390 |
| Boulder, CO | 1,010 | $49,390 | $45,720 | $54,190 |
| Pueblo, CO | 930 | $42,680 | $38,550 | $45,550 |
| Grand Junction, CO | 610 | $40,060 | $37,080 | $45,170 |
| Greeley, CO | 510 | $44,780 | $40,260 | $46,650 |
How to Become a CNA in Colorado: Step-By-Step Guide
What steps are required to earn your CNA certification in Colorado? The path is straightforward: complete 75 hours of state-approved training, pass the national competency exam, clear a background check, and get your name added to the Colorado Nurse Aide Registry. Understanding each step's specific requirements upfront helps you avoid delays and plan your budget.
Complete a State-Approved Training Program
Colorado requires every CNA candidate to complete a state-approved training program covering at least 75 hours of instruction, including a minimum of 16 hours of supervised clinical practice. These programs cover basic nursing skills, infection control, patient rights, and hands-on care techniques. You'll find approved programs at community colleges, vocational schools, and healthcare facilities across Colorado Springs. Training typically runs four to twelve weeks, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time.
Pass the NNAAP Competency Exam
After completing your training, you'll register for the NNAAP (National Nurse Aide Assessment Program) exam through Credentia, Colorado's testing vendor. Contact Credentia's exam registration line at (888) 204-6249.4 The exam has two parts: a written (or oral) test covering nursing knowledge and a hands-on skills evaluation where you demonstrate five randomly selected nursing tasks. You have three attempts to pass both portions within two years of finishing your training program. If you don't pass within that window, you'll need to retake the entire training course.
Clear Your Background Check
Colorado mandates both CBI (Colorado Bureau of Investigation) and FBI fingerprint-based background checks for all CNA candidates.2 Your training program typically coordinates this step, though you are responsible for any fees. Disqualifying offenses include convictions for abuse, neglect, or certain violent crimes.
Get Listed on the Colorado Nurse Aide Registry
After passing your exam and clearing your background check, the Colorado Nurse Aide Registry will add your name within approximately 10 days. You can verify your status and get contact information from the Colorado Board of Nursing at 1560 Broadway, Suite 1350, Denver, CO 80202, or call (303) 894-2430. Email inquiries go to [email protected].
Maintain Your Certification
Colorado CNA certification renews every two years. To stay active, you must work at least 8 hours as a paid nursing assistant during each renewal period. While Colorado imposes no continuing education requirements for renewal, staying current through voluntary training benefits your career growth and patient care quality.
What CNA Training Costs in Colorado Springs: Tuition, Fees & Financial Aid
CNA training in Colorado Springs costs significantly less than many healthcare programs, but balancing affordability with flexibility and location still matters. Tuition ranges from around $1,100 to more than $4,400 depending on the provider and your residency status, and understanding the full picture of fees, textbooks, exams, and background checks helps you budget accurately and explore every funding option available.
Typical CNA Program Costs in Colorado Springs
Most CNA programs charge an all-inclusive price that covers instruction, clinical time, and materials, but some break out individual fees. Here's what programs in Colorado Springs charged for 2025-2026 and 2026:
- Pikes Peak State College: $2,329 total for residents, $4,466 for non-residents (2025-2026). This includes tuition, fees, and supplies. The state nursing assistant exam costs an additional $135, and a background check is required before clinical placement.1
- WCAHEC CNA Program: $1,425 total (2026), plus a $50 application fee and $145 state exam fee. A background check is also required.2
- NTSOC CNA Program: $1,250 total (2026), which includes $1,100 tuition and $150 in fees.3
All programs require a criminal background check before clinical rotations, typically costing $30 to $60. The state competency exam fee (written and skills) runs $135 to $145 and is paid directly to the testing vendor when you schedule your test.
Financial Aid and Funding Options
Many Colorado Springs CNA students qualify for assistance that cuts out-of-pocket costs substantially:
- Federal Pell Grants: Pikes Peak State College participates in federal financial aid, so eligible students can apply through FAFSA. Shorter certificate-only programs at private schools typically do not qualify for Pell.
- WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act): Colorado Workforce Centers offer grants for unemployed or underemployed residents pursuing in-demand careers. CNA training is usually covered, often at 100 percent.
- Employer Tuition Reimbursement: UCHealth, Penrose-St. Francis Health Services, and other Colorado Springs hospitals sponsor CNA students in exchange for a work commitment after licensure. Some cover the full program cost upfront; others reimburse after you complete an initial employment period.
- Scholarships: Community organizations, nursing homes, and professional associations sometimes offer small CNA scholarships. Check with the Pikes Peak Workforce Center, local American Legion posts, and senior-care facilities where you plan to apply for work.
Tips for Minimizing Costs
Ask each program whether textbooks and scrubs are included in the total price or charged separately. Buy used textbooks or share digital copies when allowed. If you're paying out of pocket, ask about monthly payment plans; some schools offer interest-free installments over three to six months. Finally, apply for WIOA funding early in the year, as funds can run out by late summer or fall.
Questions to Ask Yourself
Can you attend classes during the day, or do you need evening and weekend options?
Colorado Springs offers both daytime and flexible schedules, but not every program runs nights or weekends. Choosing the wrong format could mean missed shifts at your current job or childcare conflicts that derail your training.
What is your realistic budget for tuition, books, and exam fees?
Program costs in the area range from a few hundred dollars at community colleges to over a thousand at private schools. Knowing your limit upfront helps you target programs with payment plans or financial aid that actually fit.
How far are you willing to travel for a program that meets your needs?
Some of the best options may be in Fountain, Security, or north toward Denver. A 30 minute commute several times a week adds up, so weigh convenience against program quality before enrolling.
Is job placement support or a high state exam pass rate more important to you?
Programs with strong employer connections can land you interviews quickly, while those with top pass rates give you confidence on test day. Decide which outcome matters most for your situation.
Top CNA Programs for Colorado Springs Students
Below are the top CNA programs serving Colorado Springs students, ranked by program quality, graduate success, and flexibility. Each school offers state-approved training designed to fit different schedules and budgets.
Factors considered
- Colorado Board of Nursing approval
- Graduation and exam pass rates
- Tuition and financial aid availability
- Program length and flexibility
- Clinical training opportunities
Data sources
- College Scorecard graduate earnings — collegescorecard.ed.gov
- Internal program database
- Independent program research
- NCES-IPEDS federal institutional data — nces.ed.gov
Pima Medical Institute-Aurora
#1Aurora, CO · $23,000/yr
Best for: Hybrid learners balancing work and training
Pima Medical Institute’s Aurora campus offers a Colorado Board of Nursing-approved program that can be completed in about six weeks. With a hybrid format combining online coursework and hands-on clinicals, it is ideal for students who need flexibility while gaining direct patient care skills. Although not in Colorado Springs, the affordable tuition and career services make it a strong option for southern Colorado residents seeking accelerated CNA training. Graduates are eligible to sit for the Colorado NNAAP exam.
- Complete in approximately six weeks with hybrid or on-campus options.
- Hands-on training in infection control, emergency procedures, and basic nursing care.
- Includes clinical externships for real-world patient experience.
- Graduates are eligible to take the Colorado CNA certification exam.
- Financial aid available, including Federal Pell Grants and scholarships.
- Career services support job placement after graduation.
- Accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).
Emily Griffith Technical College
#2Denver, CO · ~$7,000/yr (est.)
Best for: Evening students needing Denver-area access
Located in Denver, Emily Griffith’s Nurse Assisting program is state-approved and offers both daytime and evening classes to fit working students’ schedules. The program’s low tuition of $1,495 and part-time format make it accessible for Colorado Springs residents willing to commute. Students train in-person at the Denver campus, gaining hands-on skills with a focus on patient care and safety, and are well prepared for the state certification exam.
- Part-time program lasting 2 to 3 months with daytime or evening classes.
- Total tuition is $1,495, including instruction and basic materials.
- Colorado State Board of Nursing approved, leading to CNA exam eligibility.
- Comprehensive training in patient care, vital signs, and daily living assistance.
- Requires a background check, drug screen, and current vaccinations.
- Students must be 18 or older and hold a BLS card.
- Clinical experience integrated into the curriculum.
- Preparation for immediate entry into Colorado healthcare facilities.
Community College of Aurora
#3Aurora, CO · $9,000/yr
Best for: Budget-conscious students in central Colorado
The Community College of Aurora’s Nurse Aide Certificate is a straightforward, affordable option just an hour’s drive north of Colorado Springs. This 5-credit program focuses on fundamental nursing skills, safety, and patient rights, with hands-on clinical coursework. While not eligible for federal financial aid, the in-state tuition and comprehensive training make it a budget-conscious choice that meets Colorado’s licensing requirements.
- 5-credit certificate program on the Aurora campus.
- Teaches basic nursing skills, safety, emergency care, and restorative services.
- Includes clinical coursework for practical experience.
- Prepares graduates for the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP).
- Focus on patient rights and communication.
- Not eligible for federal financial aid; in-state tuition applies.
- Qualifies for Colorado Nurse Aide Registry upon exam pass.
Pima Medical Institute-Denver
#4Denver, CO · ~$22,000/yr (est.)
This Denver campus offers a CNA program identical in structure to the Aurora location, with a six-week timeline and hands-on learning. Students benefit from externships in the Denver metro healthcare market, gaining experience that is transferable to Colorado Springs facilities. Financial aid and career services provide additional support, making it a solid choice for those who prefer a campus-based, accelerated pathway.
- Six-week certificate program with on-campus instruction.
- Hands-on training in patient care, infection control, and emergency procedures.
- Clinical externships provide real-world experience under supervision.
- Graduates eligible for the Colorado CNA certification exam.
- Financial aid options include grants, scholarships, and loans.
- Career services assist with resume building and job placement.
- Accredited by ABHES and approved by the Colorado Board of Nursing.
Technical College of the Rockies
#5Delta, CO · $0 – $5,000/yr
Although located in Delta, this program’s hybrid format makes it accessible to students across Colorado. The 127-hour Nurse Aide course meets all state requirements, including clinical experience, and the tuition covers books and testing fees. Grant and scholarship opportunities are available, and the program’s flexible scheduling can accommodate rural or distant learners, including those in the Colorado Springs area.
- 127-hour (6.5 credit) course with hybrid online and in-seat options.
- Tuition around $1,851, including books and testing fees.
- Hybrid format allows remote coursework with on-campus skills labs.
- Meets Colorado’s NATCEP standards for CNA exam eligibility.
- Requires background check, immunizations, and official transcripts.
- Scholarship and grant opportunities may offset costs for in-state students.
- Clinical experience is integrated into the program.
- Prepares students for immediate employment in Colorado healthcare settings.
Front Range Community College
#6Westminster, CO · $10,000 – $15,000/yr
Front Range Community College’s Nurse Aide Certificate boasts a 100% CNA exam pass rate and 90% job placement, making it one of the most outcome-driven programs in the state. While the campuses are in Westminster and Larimer, the program’s reputation and hands-on simulation labs attract motivated students from across Colorado. In-state tuition and scholarship options help offset costs.
- Less than one semester; 5-credit certificate program.
- 100% state CNA exam pass rate; 90% job placement rate.
- Hands-on training in simulation labs with video recording for feedback.
- Prepares for the Colorado CNA certification exam and registry.
- Covers patient care procedures, medical regulations, and ethics.
- Focus on elderly care skills for long-term care settings.
- Larimer County scholarships available for eligible students.
- No prior healthcare experience required.
Red Rocks Community College
#7Lakewood, CO · $5,000 – $10,000/yr
Red Rocks Community College in Lakewood offers a nurse aide certificate that integrates directly with the Denver-area healthcare network. The program’s step-by-step admissions process ensures students meet clinical site requirements, including background checks and immunizations. Colorado residents (including those from Colorado Springs) can access in-state tuition and state grants, and graduates are prepared for diverse entry-level CNA roles.
- 5-credit campus-based certificate with open enrollment.
- Requires placement scores, background check, drug screen, and immunizations.
- Two courses: NUA 1001 (classroom) and NUA 1070 (clinical).
- Hands-on clinical rotation at approved facilities.
- Prepares for state certification exam and registry placement.
- In-state tuition and Colorado state grants available.
- Focus on essential patient care and safety skills.
- A minimum grade of C is required in each course.
Aims Community College
#8Greeley, CO · $11,000/yr
Aims Community College in Greeley offers a fast 5-6 week nurse aide program with day, evening, and hybrid online options, making it adaptable for various schedules. The program is open to students as young as 16 and includes a 30-hour clinical rotation. In-state tuition starts at just $520, and graduates are eligible for the Colorado NNAAP exam, providing an affordable entry into healthcare.
- 5-6 week program; 5-credit certificate.
- Campus-based with hybrid online and evening options.
- Tuition from $520 to $2,570 depending on residency.
- 30-hour clinical rotation included.
- Minimum age of 16; background and drug checks required.
- Teaches vital signs, personal care, and medical equipment use.
- Prepares for the Colorado NNAAP certification exam.
- Multiple start dates throughout the year.
Lamar Community College
#9Lamar, CO · $5,000 – $10,000/yr
Lamar Community College’s Nurse Aide Certificate provides essential training for those seeking to enter healthcare quickly. As a public Colorado community college, it offers in-state tuition and a clear pathway to CNA certification. While the campus is distant from Colorado Springs, the straightforward curriculum and focus on patient care skills make it a viable choice for students in southern Colorado looking for a no-frills program.
- Campus-based certificate program.
- Teaches foundational patient care and safety skills.
- Prepares for the Colorado CNA certification exam.
- Qualifies for in-state tuition and state financial aid.
- Short-term program designed for immediate workforce entry.
- Hands-on training in basic nursing procedures.
- Small class sizes for personalized instruction.
- Recognized by the Colorado Board of Nursing.
Colorado Mesa University
#10Grand Junction, CO · ~$15,000/yr (est.)
Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction provides a five-week nurse aide program with day and evening classes. This technical certificate includes hands-on clinical experience and covers OSHA and HIPAA regulations, preparing students for a variety of healthcare settings. The apprenticeship grant opportunity can help offset costs, and in-state tuition benefits Colorado residents, though the location is distant from Colorado Springs.
- Five-week program with day or evening class options.
- Minimum 92 contact hours; technical certificate awarded.
- Hands-on clinical experience in geriatric care settings.
- Covers OSHA, HIPAA, and state regulations.
- Eligibility for the Colorado CNA certification exam.
- Apprenticeship grant may be available to reduce tuition.
- Students must be 16+ and pass a criminal background check.
- Career pathway to advanced nursing degrees.
Frequently Asked Questions About CNA Training in Colorado Springs
Thinking about becoming a CNA in Colorado Springs? Here are answers to common questions about training duration, costs, online options, certification requirements, salaries, and financial aid to help you get started on a rewarding healthcare career.
CNA training in Colorado Springs generally lasts between 3 and 8 weeks, depending on the program schedule and intensity. For example, the Voyager Nurse Aide Program can be completed in just 3 weeks, while Angels of Care Academy takes about 4 weeks. State law requires a minimum of 75 training hours.
Tuition for CNA programs in Colorado Springs ranges from about $800 to $2,500. More affordable options include Voyager Nurse Aide Program at $499 to $699, CNA Classes Colorado Springs at $599, and NTSOC's program at $950 to $1,100. Pikes Peak State College charges around $1,200. Many schools offer payment plans to help manage costs.
While fully online CNA classes aren't permitted because of required hands-on clinical training, many Colorado Springs programs offer a hybrid format. For instance, Voyager Nurse Aide Program, Angels of Care Academy, and NTSOC combine online theory coursework with in-person skills labs and clinical rotations, giving you flexibility without sacrificing essential practice.
To earn CNA certification in Colorado, you must be at least 16 years old, complete a state-approved training program of at least 75 hours, pass a criminal background check, and provide health records including a TB test and immunizations. You'll also need CPR certification. Finally, pass the Colorado Nurse Aide Competency Exam within 24 months of training.
Certified nursing assistants in Colorado typically earn between $17 and $22 per hour, which translates to an annual salary of roughly $30,000 to $40,000. Wages can vary based on experience, employer, and shift differentials. In Colorado Springs, major hospitals and nursing homes often offer competitive pay and benefits packages.
Yes, financial aid is available for CNA training in Colorado Springs. Programs like NTSOC offer financial assistance, and community resources such as the Pikes Peak Workforce Center and the Colorado Division of Vocational Rehabilitation provide funding for eligible students. Many schools also have payment plans to spread out tuition costs.