Key Points
- Median Denver CNA salary hits $47,000 annually.
- CNA training in Denver costs between $600 and $2,500.
- Nearly 10,000 nursing assistants work across the Denver metro area.
CNA Classes and Training Programs in Denver: Your 2026 Guide
Explore Denver's CNA training options: compare costs, class schedules, and certification requirements here.
Nearly 10,000 nursing assistants work in Denver’s hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies, and the need for qualified CNAs is accelerating as Colorado’s senior population grows. The work is physically and emotionally demanding, but for those drawn to direct patient care, it offers a stable entry point into healthcare with clear paths to advancement, including landing your first CNA job.
Our research on Denver-area programs spans employer preferences, in-person and hybrid class models, real tuition costs, and the state’s certification sequence. For a side-by-side look at schools that meet Colorado’s training standards, jump straight to the program list below.
Denver's Growing Demand for Nursing Assistants
Denver's healthcare sector is in the middle of a sustained expansion, with nursing assistant roles growing steadily as the metro region ages and its hospital network continues to scale up.
A Strong Local Job Market
The Denver-Aurora-Centennial metro area currently employs roughly 9,680 nursing assistants, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data, making it by far the largest market for CNAs in Colorado. That workforce concentration reflects both the size of the region and the depth of its healthcare infrastructure. Colorado Springs, the state's second-largest metro and a hub for CNA classes in Colorado Springs, employs just under half that number, highlighting the concentration of opportunity in Denver and along the Front Range corridor.
The demand side of the equation is straightforward: Colorado's 65-and-older population is growing faster than the national average, and that demographic shift translates directly into higher demand for long-term care, home health services, and post-acute rehabilitation, all settings where CNAs are the backbone of day-to-day patient care.
Major Employers Actively Hiring
Several large healthcare systems in the Denver metro consistently recruit CNAs across multiple sites:
- UCHealth: One of Colorado's largest health systems, with a flagship academic medical center in Aurora and numerous clinics and hospitals across the region.
- HealthONE: Operates several hospitals in the metro area, including Swedish Medical Center and The Medical Center of Aurora.
- Denver Health: The city's primary safety-net hospital and public health system, serving a high volume of patients across inpatient and community settings.
- Intermountain Health (formerly SCL Health): Runs Saint Joseph Hospital and several affiliated facilities in the Denver area after its merger with SCL Health.
Beyond hospital systems, large nursing home operators, assisted living chains, and home health agencies add significant hiring volume throughout the metro.
Colorado Scope-of-Practice Notes
Colorado requires CNAs to complete a state-approved CNA Training program of at least 75 hours and pass the Prometric competency exam before working in a certified facility. The state also maintains a Nurse Aide Registry, and staying in good standing on that registry is required to maintain employment. One trend worth noting: several Denver-area employers now offer CNA-to-LPN bridge programs and tuition reimbursement, so entry-level certification can serve as a genuine on-ramp to a licensed nursing career rather than a static endpoint.
CNA Class Formats in Denver: Online, Hybrid, and In-Person Options
CNA class formats refer to how a program delivers its instruction, whether entirely face-to-face in a classroom and clinical site, partially online with in-person skills labs, or structured around non-traditional hours like evenings and weekends. Choosing the right format can make or break your ability to finish the program, especially if you are balancing a job or family responsibilities.
Why Fully Online CNA Programs Are Rare
Colorado requires every CNA student to complete supervised clinical hours in a real healthcare setting. Because hands-on patient care cannot be replicated through a screen, you will not find a legitimate, fully online CNA program in Denver. What you will find are hybrid options that move the lecture and theory portions online so you only need to show up in person for skills practice and clinical rotations. This setup can shave hours off your weekly commute and give you more control over when you study.
Denver Schools by Format
Several Denver-area programs offer scheduling flexibility beyond the standard daytime track:
- South Denver School of Nursing Arts: Hybrid delivery with evening classes available. The program runs about four weeks, making it one of the faster options in the metro area.
- Community College of Denver: In-person classes over roughly seven weeks, with an evening schedule offered for students who work during the day.2
- Emily Griffith Technical College: A three-month, in-person program that also provides evening sections, a good fit if you prefer a steadier pace.
- Intermountain Healthcare at Saint Joseph Hospital: An intensive, employer-sponsored in-person program that wraps up in about two weeks, with evening availability.
- CrossPurpose (in partnership with South Denver School of Nursing Arts): A hybrid, six-month pathway that includes wraparound career support and evening scheduling.
- AplMed Academy (Aurora): In-person classes at their Aurora campus, convenient for students on the east side of the metro.
- Vista Academy: A hybrid program geared toward high school students looking to earn a CNA credential before graduation.2
Comparing Part-Time, Evening, and Accelerated Tracks
Working adults generally gravitate toward evening or weekend sections because they can keep a daytime income while training. Programs like those at Community College of Denver and Emily Griffith Technical College spread the coursework over several weeks or months, which means lighter daily time commitments and more room to absorb the material.
Accelerated tracks, such as the two-week program at Saint Joseph Hospital or the four-week hybrid at South Denver School of Nursing Arts, compress the same content into a much shorter window. The trade-off is intensity: attendance policies tend to be stricter, and missing even a single day can put you at risk of falling behind or having to restart. If your schedule is unpredictable, a longer program with built-in breathing room may be the safer choice.
Picking the Right Fit
Before you commit, consider how many hours per week you can realistically dedicate to class, study, and clinical time. Hybrid formats work well for self-motivated learners comfortable with online coursework, while fully in-person programs offer more structured support. Evening sections remove the need to choose between a paycheck and a credential, and accelerated tracks get you into the workforce fastest, provided you can clear your calendar for the duration. You can compare CNA classes in Colorado side by side to find the schedule that fits your life.
Questions to Ask Yourself
Do you need evening or weekend classes to fit your current job or family schedule?
Many Denver programs offer daytime-only sessions. If you work full time or have childcare responsibilities, choosing a program without evening or weekend options could force you to quit your job before you are ready.
Are you ready to commit to an accelerated 4 to 6 week program, or do you need a slower pace?
Accelerated programs move fast and demand consistent daily attendance. If your schedule or learning style requires more time to absorb material, a longer part-time format will improve your chances of passing the Colorado certification exam.
Can you reliably attend in-person clinical hours at a local facility?
Colorado requires hands-on clinical training that cannot be completed online. If transportation or work conflicts make in-person attendance difficult, you will need to plan around that before you enroll.
Comparing CNA Program Costs and Admission Requirements in Denver
How much does CNA training actually cost in the Denver area, and what do you need to get accepted?
Tuition for CNA programs in and around Denver varies more than many students expect. Understanding the price range and the admission checklist before you apply saves time and prevents surprises on enrollment day.
What CNA Training Costs in the Denver Metro
Among the most affordable options near Denver, three programs stand out based on published tuition and fees:
- Technical College of the Rockies (Delta, CO): Estimated tuition of roughly $1,851 for a 127-hour program. While Delta is outside the metro, this college offers hybrid scheduling that may appeal to budget-conscious students willing to travel for clinicals.
- Emily Griffith Technical College (Denver): Tuition of approximately $1,495 for a part-time program that runs two to three months. Located right in Denver, this State Board of Nursing-approved program is one of the most accessible in the city.
- Community College of Aurora: In-state tuition starts around $4,470 for the five-credit Nurse Aide Certificate. Aurora sits just east of Denver, making it a convenient pick for students on that side of the metro.
Keep in mind that tuition figures do not always include extras such as textbooks, scrubs, background check fees, immunization costs, or the state certification exam fee. Budget an additional few hundred dollars for those items.
Standard Admission Prerequisites
Most Denver-area CNA programs share a common set of requirements. Expect to provide proof of the following:
- Age: Minimums range from 16 to 18 depending on the school. Emily Griffith Technical College requires applicants to be at least 18, while programs like South Denver School of Nursing Arts1 and NoCo Training3 accept students as young as 16.
- Education: A high school diploma or GED is the standard baseline.
- Criminal background check: Required at virtually every approved program, including Emily Griffith, South Denver School of Nursing Arts1, Aplmed Academy2, NoCo Training3, and Colorado Northwestern Community College.
- Drug screening: Most Denver programs mandate a drug test, typically a 10-panel screening completed within two weeks of enrollment.1
- TB testing: A current tuberculosis test is required at schools such as Emily Griffith, South Denver School of Nursing Arts1, and Colorado Northwestern Community College. Some schools ask for annual renewal.
- Immunizations: Common requirements include MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B, Tdap, and influenza vaccines. Emily Griffith also lists COVID-19 boosters as recommended. South Denver School of Nursing Arts requires COVID-19 vaccination with exemptions available.1
- CPR/BLS certification: Programs including South Denver School of Nursing Arts1, Aplmed Academy2, and Colorado Northwestern Community College require a current BLS or CPR card before clinicals begin.
Entrance Tests and Interviews
Some programs add an academic screening step. South Denver School of Nursing Arts uses an online admission exam1, while Colorado Northwestern Community College requires a basic skills self-assessment or ACT scores. Emily Griffith expects applicants to demonstrate English language proficiency and a basic understanding of algebra. If standardized testing makes you nervous, ask the admissions office whether prep resources or retake opportunities are available.
Extra Requirements for Free or Low-Cost Programs
Free CNA training does exist in Denver, often through nursing homes, hospitals, or workforce development grants. These programs typically come with strings attached. The most common requirement is a work commitment: you agree to stay employed at the sponsoring facility for a set period, often six months to a year, after you earn your certification. Some employer-sponsored tracks also have stricter scheduling demands or limit your choice of clinical site. Before signing on, read the agreement carefully so you understand what happens if you leave early. A program that looks free on the surface could carry financial penalties if you do not fulfill the commitment.
Comparing costs and requirements side by side helps you narrow the field quickly. Use the school profiles on cnaclasses.org to check current tuition, prerequisite lists, and upcoming start dates for every approved program in the Denver metro.
CNA Salary and Career Outlook in the Denver Metro Area
The Denver metro area is home to nearly 10,000 nursing assistants, reflecting strong employer demand across hospitals, long-term care, and home health agencies. Salaries here are competitive, with median pay exceeding the state average and wide variation by experience and setting. The table below breaks down wages at key percentiles and by workplace type.
| Category | Denver Metro Area | Colorado |
|---|---|---|
| Total Employment | 9,680 nursing assistants | |
| Hourly Range (entry-level to experienced) | $18.30 - $24.47 | |
| 10th Percentile Annual Wage | N/A | $38,690 |
| 25th Percentile Annual Wage | $44,890 | N/A |
| Median Annual Wage | $47,000 | $40,250 |
| 75th Percentile Annual Wage | $49,090 | $49,920 |
| 90th Percentile Annual Wage | N/A | $56,070 |
| Hospital Setting | $43,680 - $54,080 | |
| Skilled Nursing / Long-Term Care | $37,440 - $45,760 | |
| Home Health | $35,360 - $43,680 |
How to Become a CNA in Denver: Step-By-Step Certification Guide
Written test vs hands-on skills demonstration: both are required for CNA certification in Denver, but they assess very different abilities. The written portion tests your knowledge of nursing concepts, while the skills evaluation checks your ability to perform essential care tasks safely and professionally. Earning your CNA credential can lead to rewarding work, and learning how to get a CNA job can help you secure a position in hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies across the Denver metro area.
Complete a State-Approved Training Program
You must graduate from a state-approved cna program of at least 75 hours. Colorado requires a minimum of 60 classroom theory hours and 16 hours of supervised clinical practice. Many Denver programs exceed these minimums, giving you extra hands-on experience before you take the certification exam. Approved programs are offered by community colleges, vocational schools, and healthcare facilities. After completing your training, your instructor will provide you with an eligibility form that confirms you have met the training requirements.
Pass the Colorado Nurse Aide Competency Exam
Once you have your training completion documentation, you can register for the Colorado Nurse Aide Competency Exam, which is administered by a national testing vendor such as Pearson VUE. Registration is typically done online through the vendor’s portal, where you will select a testing date and location. Denver-area testing sites include several community college campuses and professional testing centers. The exam has two parts: a multiple-choice written test and a skills demonstration evaluated by a nurse aide evaluator. You must pass both components within two years of completing your training program. If you fail either part, you can retake it after a waiting period, though you may need to pay additional fees.
Get Listed on the Colorado Nurse Aide Registry
After you pass both parts of the exam, the testing vendor forwards your results to the Colorado Board of Nursing. The Board adds your name to the Colorado Nurse Aide Registry, which is the official list of CNAs authorized to work in the state. Employers check the registry to verify your certification status. You can search your name on the Board’s website to confirm your listing. For any questions about your application or certification, you can reach the Colorado Board of Nursing at (303) 894-7800 or visit their website at dpo.colorado.gov/Nursing.
Maintaining Your Certification: Renewal and Continuing Education
CNA certification in Colorado must be renewed every two years. To renew, you must document either 24 hours of approved continuing education or at least eight hours of paid CNA work (verified by an employer) during the 24-month period. The renewal process is completed online through the Board of Nursing’s portal. If you let your certification expire, you may need to retake the competency exam, so it is important to track your renewal deadline and keep records of any continuing education courses you complete.
CNA Salary Snapshot: Denver
The median CNA salary in Denver is $47,000 per year, which is well above the national average and among the highest in Colorado.
Top-Ranked CNA Programs in Denver
Denver offers a variety of CNA training pathways designed to fit different schedules, budgets, and career goals. Our ranked list spotlights programs that stand out for student support, clinical training quality, and strong alignment with Colorado certification standards.
Factors considered
- State exam pass rates
- Affordability and financial aid
- Program length and flexibility
- Clinical training quality
- Local employer reputation
Data sources
- Internal program database
- Independent program research
- NCES-IPEDS federal institutional data — nces.ed.gov
- College Scorecard graduate earnings — collegescorecard.ed.gov
Emily Griffith Technical College
#1Denver, CO · ~$7,000/yr (est.)
Best for: Downtown Denver adults needing evening classes
Emily Griffith Technical College's Nurse Assisting program is a centrally located, Denver institution offering part-time training that fits working adults. Day and evening options make it accessible, and the downtown campus places students near major healthcare employers. With a solid statewide reputation and clear Colorado Board of Nursing approval, it is a trusted, affordable choice for Denver residents.
- Part-time program completed in 2 to 3 months.
- In-person classes offered during daytime and evening.
- Total cost listed at $1,495, with possible lower published rates.
- State Board of Nursing approved, leading directly to certification exam eligibility.
- Covers patient care, vital signs, and daily living assistance skills.
- Clinical hours may vary; some cohorts may have a waitlist.
- Admission requires background check, drug screening, and BLS card.
- Located at the downtown Denver campus, convenient for city residents.
Pima Medical Institute-Denver
#2Denver, CO · ~$22,000/yr (est.)
Best for: North Denver learners prioritizing intensive training
Pima Medical Institute's Denver campus delivers an intensive, six-week Nursing Assistant certificate with a strong focus on real-world labs and immediate employment readiness. Its location in north Denver makes it a convenient option for metro-area students who want a fast, campus-based program. The school's career services and ABHES accreditation add extra support for job placement.
- Campus-based program that can be completed in approximately six weeks.
- Hands-on training in real-world labs and clinical externships.
- Covers infection control, emergency procedures, and basic nursing skills.
- Emphasizes communication and interpersonal skills for patient care.
- Financial aid options include Federal Pell Grants and scholarships.
- Career services assistance and job placement support available.
- High school diploma or GED required for admission.
- Denver campus located at 7475 Dakin St, serving the north metro area.
Front Range Community College
#3Westminster, CO · $10,000 – $15,000/yr
Best for: Westminster commuters wanting proven results
Front Range Community College's Nurse Aide Certificate program boasts exceptional outcomes with a reported 100% state exam pass rate and 90% job placement rate. The public college offers hands-on training in simulation labs at its Westminster and Larimer campuses, making it a high-value choice for northern Denver metro residents. Its alignment with Colorado Board of Nursing standards ensures graduates are well-prepared for certification and employment.
- Less than one semester, 5-credit certificate program.
- Campus-based at Larimer and Westminster locations.
- Reports a 100% pass rate on the state certification exam.
- Reports a 90% job placement rate for graduates.
- Simulation rooms with video recording enhance clinical training.
- Covers patient care procedures, medical regulations, and ethics.
- Scholarship opportunities may be available through Larimer County.
- Program director: Suzanne Sevy.
Community College of Aurora
#4Aurora, CO · $9,000/yr
Community College of Aurora provides a public, 5-credit Nurse Aide Certificate that fits well for Aurora and east Denver residents. The campus-based format focuses on fundamental nursing skills and includes clinical coursework, preparing students for the national certification exam. While not eligible for federal financial aid, its low cost and solid institutional reputation make it an accessible entry point into healthcare.
- 5-credit certificate program with campus-based instruction.
- Prepares for the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program exam.
- Covers safety, emergency care, patient rights, and restorative services.
- Includes clinical coursework for hands-on practice.
- Not eligible for federal financial aid but offered at a public college price.
- Part of the Health Science Department at the Aurora campus.
- Provides essential training for entry-level healthcare roles.
Red Rocks Community College
#5Lakewood, CO · $5,000 – $10,000/yr
Red Rocks Community College serves the west Denver metro with Nurse Aide training at its Lakewood and Arvada campuses. Programs run 4 to 8 weeks and are approved by the Colorado State Board of Nursing. With open enrollment and a clear step-by-step admissions process, RRCC is a flexible public option for Jefferson County and nearby areas.
- Campus-based program requiring 5 credit hours.
- Offered at Lakewood and Arvada campuses.
- Open enrollment with placement scores or equivalent required.
- Includes NUA 1001 classroom course and NUA 1070 clinical rotation.
- Background check, immunizations, and drug screen required.
- Prepares for state certification and entry-level healthcare jobs.
- Step-by-step admissions process guides new students.
Pima Medical Institute-Aurora
#6Aurora, CO · $23,000/yr
Pima Medical Institute's Aurora campus offers a Nursing Assistant certificate that mirrors the Denver campus in structure, delivering a six-week, hands-on program. As a registered Colorado training provider, it meets state requirements and includes clinical externships. The Aurora location is convenient for students in the eastern metro who want a private-school experience with career support.
- Certificate program completed in about six weeks.
- On-campus and hybrid delivery options available.
- Covers infection control, emergency procedures, and basic nursing.
- Clinical externships provide real-world experience.
- Financial aid, Pell Grants, and scholarships may be available.
- Career services and job placement assistance included.
- Accredited by ABHES and state licensure compliant.
- Aurora campus serves the eastern Denver metro area.
Aims Community College
#7Greeley, CO · $11,000/yr
Aims Community College offers a budget-friendly Nurse Aide certificate at its Greeley and Fort Lupton campuses, with tuition starting as low as $520 for in-district students. The 5- to 6-week program includes day, evening, and hybrid online options, appealing to northern Front Range learners. Its state approval and pathway to the NNAAP exam make it a practical choice for cost-conscious students.
- 5-6 week certificate program with 5 credits.
- Campus-based with hybrid online options for flexibility.
- Tuition ranges from $520 to $2,570 depending on residency.
- Includes a 30-hour clinical rotation.
- Prepares for the Colorado NNAAP certification exam.
- Day and evening schedules available.
- Campuses in Greeley and Fort Lupton.
- Background and drug checks required for admission.
Technical College of the Rockies
#8Delta, CO · $0 – $5,000/yr
Technical College of the Rockies brings a unique hybrid format to Colorado CNA training, with an eight-week program that exceeds the state's minimum hours. While located in Delta, its online/hybrid model extends access to Denver-area students who prefer flexible learning. The program's emphasis on meeting Colorado Board of Nursing standards and its inclusion of books and testing fees in the tuition add value.
- 127-hour, 6.5-credit hybrid or in-seat program.
- Online/hybrid format available for remote learners.
- Prepares specifically for the Colorado CNA exam.
- Tuition approximately $1,850, covering books and testing fees.
- Requires background check, immunizations, and transcripts.
- Grant and scholarship opportunities may be available.
- Includes hands-on clinical experience.
- Teaches patient care, mobility assistance, and emotional support.
Lamar Community College
#9Lamar, CO · $5,000 – $10,000/yr
Lamar Community College provides a Nurse Aide Certificate focused on essential patient care skills for rural healthcare settings. Though far from Denver, its campus-based, short-term program offers a straightforward path to certification at a public college price. Students from the Denver area considering relocation or rural practice may find it a viable starting point.
- Campus-based certificate program.
- Focuses on compassionate patient care and direct interaction.
- Prepares for professional certification in a short timeframe.
- Entry-level training for various medical settings.
- Public community college with affordable tuition.
- Part of Lamar Community College's health sciences offerings.
Colorado Mesa University
#10Grand Junction, CO · ~$15,000/yr (est.)
Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction offers a five-week Nurse Aide technical certificate with a low 10:1 student-instructor ratio. The program exceeds state minimum contact hours and includes hands-on clinical experience. For Denver students open to relocating or seeking a university-affiliated certificate, it can be an option, though its location in western Colorado is less convenient for the metro area.
- Five-week technical certificate program.
- Campus-based instruction with a 10:1 student-instructor ratio.
- Minimum 92 contact hours exceed Colorado requirements.
- Day and evening class options available.
- Criminal background check and age 16+ required.
- Apprenticeship grant may be available to eligible students.
- Focus on geriatric population and safety regulations.
- Year-round offerings with college credits available.
How to Pay for CNA Training: Financial Aid and Free Programs in Denver
CNA training costs in Denver typically range from $600 to $2,500, but several funding pathways can reduce or eliminate that expense entirely. Federal Pell Grants rarely apply to short-term certificate programs like CNA training, which means most students rely on state workforce grants, employer-sponsored tuition, institutional scholarships, or direct work-for-training arrangements. Understanding which option matches your situation can make the difference between out-of-pocket debt and a fully funded pathway to certification.
WIOA Workforce Grants
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funds CNA training for eligible Colorado residents through local workforce centers. South Denver School of Nursing Arts (SDSNA) accepts WIOA funding that can cover up to 100 percent of tuition for approved students; for details, see their Workforce Center Funding for SDSNA Students page. Eligibility criteria include unemployed, underemployed, low-income, or dislocated worker status. To apply, contact your nearest Colorado Workforce Center to discuss your situation, complete an assessment, and request approval for CNA training. The workforce center staff will walk you through income documentation, career-planning forms, and provider selection. Processing times vary, so start the conversation at least four to six weeks before your intended program start date.
Employer-Sponsored Free Training
Many Denver-area nursing homes, assisted living communities, and home health agencies offer free CNA training in exchange for a work commitment, usually six to twelve months of employment after certification.1 These programs cover tuition, books, and exam fees while paying you a training wage or stipend during the course. After you pass the state exam, you transition to a full CNA role with the sponsoring employer. Job boards frequently list these opportunities under titles like "CNA Trainee" or "Nursing Assistant Apprentice." Contact facilities directly if you don't see openings advertised, as many prefer referrals or walk-in inquiries over formal postings.
Institutional and Community Scholarships
The PASCO CNA Scholarship Program provides selective scholarships to students who demonstrate financial need and career commitment. Interested applicants should contact PASCO's Talent Acquisition Specialist by phone or email to discuss eligibility and application requirements. The Denver Scholarship Foundation and other local nonprofits occasionally fund healthcare training for Denver residents; check their websites for current application cycles. The Colorado Healthcare Education Grant may also support CNA students depending on annual funding allocations.
Tuition Reimbursement Programs
Major Denver healthcare employers, including hospital systems and long-term care networks, reimburse CNA tuition for employees who complete training and remain employed for a specified period. If you already work in a healthcare support role, check with your human resources department about tuition assistance policies. Some employers require upfront payment with reimbursement after certification, while others pay the school directly before you begin.
State Resources
The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment maintains a list of approved training providers and current workforce development grants. Their website includes eligibility wizards, application portals, and contact information for regional workforce centers. If you're unsure where to start, call the statewide workforce hotline to discuss your situation and receive a referral to the closest center.
Questions to Ask Yourself
Are you willing to commit to working for a specific employer for 6 to 12 months after finishing free training?
Most employer-sponsored programs require you to stay on staff for a set period or repay training costs. If you want flexibility to job-hop or relocate shortly after certifying, a paid program may serve you better.
Does the free program's schedule and location realistically fit your daily life?
Free programs often have fixed class times and single locations with little flexibility. If the commute or schedule conflicts with childcare or a current job, paying for a program with evening or weekend options could be the smarter tradeoff.
Have you confirmed the free program is Colorado state-approved and includes hands-on clinical hours plus exam preparation?
Only state-approved programs make you eligible to sit for the Colorado CNA competency exam. A free program that skips exam prep or lacks approved clinical hours can cost you more time and money in the long run.
Common Questions About CNA Training and Certification in Denver
Before you enroll, here are answers to common questions about CNA training, costs, requirements, and certification in Denver. Gain clarity on program length, online options, and what it takes to start your career.
Most CNA programs in Denver can be completed in 7 to 13 weeks, depending on the school and schedule. For example, Community College of Denver offers a 7.5-week program. Colorado requires at least 75 hours of training, which includes classroom instruction and hands-on clinical practice1, so you can be job-ready quickly.
CNA program tuition in Denver typically ranges from $900 to $1,800. Community College of Denver charges about $1,413, the Denver Hospice program costs $1,260, and South Denver School of Nursing Arts charges $1,8002. Some Colorado programs may be as low as $900, so it pays to compare several options.
Free CNA training is sometimes available through healthcare employers, workforce development programs, or grants. These often require a work commitment after certification. Availability changes, so it's best to check directly with facilities like nursing homes or visit cnaclasses.org to find current free training opportunities in the Denver area.
To enroll in a Denver CNA program, you generally need a high school diploma or GED, a negative TB test, a fingerprint background card, valid government-issued ID, and proof of immunizations.1 Some programs may also require CPR certification or a basic literacy test. Check with your chosen school for its specific list.
Yes, several Colorado-approved programs offer a hybrid format, where you complete the theoretical coursework online but must attend in-person clinical sessions at a healthcare facility. For instance, Noco Training and other Denver-area schools provide this flexible model. State regulations mandate hands-on clinical hours, so fully online CNA training is not allowed.
Colorado CNA certification must be renewed every 24 months. To renew, you need to have performed at least eight hours of paid nursing assistant duties during that period and have no unresolved complaints. If you haven't met the work requirement, you may be required to retake and pass the Colorado Nurse Aide Competency Exam.
The job outlook for CNAs in Denver is strong, with growing demand from hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home health agencies. The local aging population and healthcare expansion are driving increased hiring. Nationally, employment of nursing assistants is projected to grow much faster than average, ensuring steady job opportunities after certification.