Key Points
- Wisconsin mandates at least 120 hours of CNA training.
- Fond du Lac CNAs earn a median $44,260 annually.
- CNA training costs range from free to about $850.
CNA Classes in Fond du Lac, WI | Program Guide & Costs
Compare local CNA programs, understand Wisconsin’s training requirements, and find the best path to start your nursing career.
Fond du Lac sits in a region where the over-65 population is growing faster than the state average, and local facilities including SSM Health St. Agnes Hospital and a dense network of long-term care centers are actively competing for qualified nursing assistants. That demand creates a real entry point for candidates who complete the right training, but the path from interest to certification requires navigating Wisconsin's 120-hour minimum requirement, a state-administered competency exam, and program options that vary significantly in cost and schedule.
The practical tension most prospective students face is straightforward: how much time and money can you commit, and which program structure fits your life? Training can cost anywhere from nothing to roughly $850, financial aid is available at technical colleges, and some employers offer tuition reimbursement for candidates who commit to working after certification.
CNA wages in the Fond du Lac metro averaged $44,260 annually in 2024, a figure that reflects a market where facilities are paying more to attract and retain direct care workers. Jump straight to the program list →
Why Become a CNA in Fond Du Lac?
What job opportunities exist for CNAs in Fond du Lac, and why is this a good place to start a healthcare career?
Fond du Lac offers a supportive environment for aspiring nursing assistants, with a healthcare landscape that combines major hospital systems, skilled nursing facilities, and growing home health services. The city serves as a regional healthcare hub for Fond du Lac County and surrounding communities, creating consistent demand for trained CNAs at every level of care.
Major Healthcare Employers in the Area
SSM Health St. Agnes Hospital is the largest healthcare employer in Fond du Lac, providing acute care services and employing CNAs across multiple departments including medical-surgical units, rehabilitation, and emergency care support. Beyond the hospital setting, Fond du Lac County has numerous skilled nursing facilities and assisted living communities that rely heavily on CNA staff for daily resident care. Home health agencies also operate throughout the region, offering CNAs flexibility in scheduling and the opportunity to provide one-on-one patient care in private residences.
Local Demand and Job Stability
Fond du Lac County's population trends mirror broader Wisconsin patterns, with a growing percentage of residents over age 65 who need more healthcare services. This demographic shift, combined with typical turnover rates in entry-level healthcare positions, means facilities are consistently hiring qualified CNAs. For job seekers, this translates to employment stability and often the ability to choose preferred shifts or work settings.
Work Settings and Personal Rewards
CNAs in Fond du Lac work in varied environments:
- Hospitals: Assisting nurses with patient monitoring, mobility, and basic care
- Nursing homes: Providing daily living assistance to long-term residents
- Assisted living facilities: Supporting residents who need moderate help
- Home health: Delivering personalized care in patients' homes
Many CNAs find deep satisfaction in building relationships with patients and families, particularly in long-term care settings where they become familiar faces in residents' daily lives.
A Stepping Stone to Advanced Nursing
CNA certification frequently serves as the first step toward higher nursing credentials. Many CNAs in Fond du Lac use their hands-on experience to prepare for Licensed Practical Nurse or Registered Nurse programs, gaining clinical confidence and patient care skills that strengthen future nursing school applications.
Wisconsin's demand for nursing assistants is rising fast. The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development projects strong growth in healthcare support roles over the next decade, meaning CNA graduates in Fond du Lac enter a job market where qualified candidates are consistently needed and employers are actively hiring.
Online and Hybrid CNA Classes for Fond Du Lac Students
Wisconsin requires all CNA training programs to include hands-on clinical hours, which means fully online certification is not available in the state. However, many programs now offer hybrid formats that allow you to complete classroom instruction online before attending in-person clinical rotations at approved healthcare facilities.
Finding Approved Programs
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services maintains the official list of state-approved cna programs in Wisconsin, the most reliable way to verify that any program you consider meets state requirements and will qualify you to sit for the certification exam. Check this list before enrolling anywhere, as only graduates of approved programs can become certified in Wisconsin.
Contacting Local Schools Directly
Area technical colleges and adult education centers often update their course offerings seasonally, so reaching out directly is the best way to get current information about:
- Available hybrid or flexible scheduling options
- Upcoming start dates and registration deadlines
- Clinical site locations and hour requirements
- Total program length and any prerequisites
When you call or email admissions offices, ask specifically about any online coursework components and how clinical rotations are scheduled. Some programs offer evening or weekend clinicals to accommodate working students.
Additional Resources for Your Search
The Bureau of Labor Statistics provides helpful background on nursing assistant career paths and general training expectations, though it does not list individual programs. For Wisconsin-specific scholarship opportunities and training program directories, professional associations like the Wisconsin Health Care Association and LeadingAge Wisconsin can be valuable resources. These organizations often maintain lists of member facilities that partner with training programs and may offer financial assistance to students pursuing healthcare careers.
Taking time to research your options thoroughly helps ensure you choose a program format that fits your schedule while meeting all state certification requirements.
CNA Programs Near Fond Du Lac Within Commuting Distance
A short drive from Fond du Lac can open up more CNA training options, better scheduling flexibility, and in some cases lower tuition than you might find close to home. The cities of Oshkosh, Appleton, West Bend, Waupun, Beaver Dam, and a handful of smaller communities all sit within roughly 45 minutes of Fond du Lac, and several host solid programs worth considering.
Oshkosh and Appleton
Fox Valley Technical College operates campuses in both Oshkosh (150 N Campbell Rd) and Appleton (1825 N Bluemound Dr). Tuition at either location runs approximately $350 to $450 for the nurse aide program4, making FVTC one of the more affordable technical college options in the region. Both campuses serve commuting students regularly, and the Oshkosh area also has an employer-based training option through Clarity Care Home Health3, which can be a good fit if you want to learn while already connected to a potential employer.
West Bend and Beaver Dam
Moraine Park Technical College has campuses in West Bend (2151 N Main St) and Beaver Dam (700 Gould St), both within comfortable commuting range. Tuition mirrors the FVTC range at roughly $350 to $450. If you live on the south side of Fond du Lac, the Beaver Dam campus may actually be the closest option you have. Clearview Long Term Care and Rehabilitation in nearby Juneau (199 Home Rd) is another site worth looking into for employer-sponsored training in that corridor4.
Smaller Programs Worth the Drive
A few private and employer-based programs cluster even closer. Wisconsin CNA Training Center in Campbellsport charges around $725 and can complete training in as little as one week3, which appeals to students who need to get certified fast. Hope Health and Rehabilitation in Lomira offers a CNA training program for approximately $600 over a four-week schedule, a pace that works well for students balancing other responsibilities.
One Thing to Confirm Before You Enroll
Whichever commuter program you choose, ask about clinical placement locations before you commit. Some programs assign clinical hours at partner facilities that are separate from the main campus, and those sites could require additional travel. Knowing this upfront prevents scheduling surprises once training is underway.
CNA Salary and Job Outlook in Fond Du Lac
According to the most recent BLS data from 2024, nursing assistants in the Fond du Lac metropolitan area earn a median annual wage of $44,260, placing it competitively among Wisconsin's urban metros. For comparison, nearby Milwaukee-Waukesha has a median of $44,370 and Madison sits at $43,620. Many local healthcare employers also provide benefits such as health insurance and tuition reimbursement, making CNA roles in the region even more attractive.
| Area | Total Employment | Median Annual Wage | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee-Waukesha, WI | 8,280 | $44,370 | $38,910 | $46,280 |
| Madison, WI | 3,260 | $43,620 | $39,900 | $46,320 |
| Green Bay, WI | 1,810 | $42,760 | $38,040 | $43,960 |
| Eau Claire, WI | 990 | $41,810 | $37,250 | $45,210 |
| Appleton, WI | 930 | $39,900 | $38,110 | $45,030 |
| La Crosse-Onalaska, WI-MN | 920 | $41,460 | $39,930 | $43,570 |
| Oshkosh-Neenah, WI | 810 | $40,130 | $37,770 | $44,750 |
| Kenosha, WI | 630 | $44,850 | $39,790 | $45,070 |
| Racine-Mount Pleasant, WI | 630 | $40,750 | $37,810 | $46,290 |
| Janesville-Beloit, WI | 600 | $43,760 | $38,400 | $45,060 |
| Wausau, WI | 600 | $37,770 | $35,510 | $43,790 |
| Fond du Lac, WI | 580 | $44,260 | $38,080 | $45,850 |
| Sheboygan, WI | 450 | $45,660 | $42,220 | $46,770 |
How to Become a CNA in Wisconsin: Step-By-Step
Wisconsin requires a minimum of 120 hours of training to become a Certified Nursing Assistant, making it one of the more rigorous state programs in the Midwest. The certification process follows a clear path that most students complete within four to eight weeks.
Step 1: Complete a State-Approved Training Program
Enroll in a Wisconsin Department of Health Services approved nurse aide training program. Your 120 hours will split between classroom instruction covering topics like infection control, patient rights, and basic nursing skills, plus hands-on clinical practice in a healthcare setting. No high school diploma or GED is required to enroll, though some employers may prefer candidates who have completed secondary education.
Step 2: Meet Health and Background Requirements
Before entering clinical rotations, you must pass a background check and meet health screening requirements. Expect to provide proof of a negative tuberculosis test, current immunizations, and in some programs, a physical examination. These requirements protect both you and the patients you will care for during training.
Step 3: Pass the Wisconsin Nurse Aide Competency Exam
After completing your training, register for the state competency exam through Headmaster LLP, the contracted testing provider. The exam has two parts: a written or oral knowledge test covering 60 questions, and a skills demonstration where you perform five randomly selected nursing procedures. You must pass both sections to earn certification.
Step 4: Get Listed on the Wisconsin Nurse Aide Registry
Once you pass both exam components, your name is added to the Wisconsin Nurse Aide Registry. This listing allows employers to verify your credentials and is required before you can work as a CNA in the state.
Maintaining Your Certification
Wisconsin CNAs must work at least eight hours of paid nursing duties within 24 months to keep their certification active. Many employers also require ongoing continuing education. Keep in mind that Wisconsin is not part of a nurse aide reciprocity compact, so your certification is state-specific. If you plan to work in another state, you will need to check that state's endorsement requirements.
Questions to Ask Yourself
Do I have the physical stamina for lifting and standing for long shifts?
CNAs regularly assist patients with transfers, repositioning, and mobility, often standing or walking for eight hours or more. If you have physical limitations or injuries, consider whether you can meet these demands or need accommodations.
Am I comfortable providing personal care like bathing, toileting, and grooming to patients?
A core part of the CNA role involves helping patients with intimate hygiene tasks. If you feel uneasy with this level of hands-on care, the daily reality of the job may be challenging.
Can I commit to full-time clinical hours for several weeks during my training?
Wisconsin CNA programs require supervised clinical shifts at healthcare facilities, often scheduled in consecutive weeks. You will need to arrange childcare, transportation, and time off from other work during this period.
What shift (day, evening, overnight) works with my life and study schedule?
Many CNAs work evenings, weekends, or overnight shifts to meet patient care needs. Think about which hours fit your family responsibilities, sleep patterns, and whether you want flexibility or a fixed schedule.
CNA Program Options in Fond Du Lac: What to Expect
Wisconsin requires all CNA training programs to hold approval from the Department of Health Services before they can prepare students for the state certification exam. That approval process ensures every program meets minimum standards for classroom instruction, skills lab practice, and supervised clinical hours, so verifying a program's status is one of the first steps you should take.
Finding Approved Programs
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services maintains an online directory of approved nurse aide training programs. You can search by city or county to find options in and around Fond du Lac, along with contact details and program formats. Checking this list before you enroll protects you from spending money on a course that will not qualify you to sit for the state competency exam.
Local options may include community and technical colleges, skilled nursing facilities, and private training centers. Each type of provider structures its program a little differently, so comparing schedules, class sizes, and clinical partnerships is worthwhile.
Gathering Program Details
Because tuition, fees, start dates, and session formats can change from one term to the next, the most reliable approach is to visit each school's website directly or call the admissions office. Ask about:
- Total cost: Tuition plus any fees for supplies, background checks, textbooks, and scrubs.
- Schedule options: Day, evening, or weekend sessions that fit around work or family commitments.
- Program length: Most Wisconsin CNA courses run a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on the schedule's intensity.
- Clinical sites: Where hands-on training takes place and how far you may need to travel.
Professional Resources Worth Consulting
Organizations like the Wisconsin Health Care Association and the National Association of Health Care Assistants offer guidance on choosing a quality program and may list scholarship opportunities specifically for aspiring nursing assistants. These groups can also connect you with mentors and continuing education resources once you are certified.
Finally, the Bureau of Labor Statistics publishes national and state-level wage and employment outlook data for nursing assistants. Reviewing those figures before you commit to a program helps you weigh training costs against realistic earning potential, giving you a clearer picture of the return on your investment.
Taking time to research approved programs, compare costs and schedules, and tap into professional resources sets you up for a smoother path from enrollment to certification.
Hands-On Training: Clinical Sites and Partnerships in Fond Du Lac
Where Do Fond du Lac CNA Students Complete Clinical Hours?
Clinical training takes place in real healthcare settings across the Fond du Lac area. Students gain hands-on experience in a mix of environments, including acute care hospitals like SSM Health St. Agnes Hospital, as well as nursing homes and long-term care facilities such as Fond du Lac Lutheran Home and Villa Loretto. These sites offer exposure to residents with diverse needs, from post-surgical recovery to long-term custodial care.
How Programs Partner with Clinical Sites
CNA programs in Fond du Lac have established relationships with local healthcare employers. For example, Moraine Park Technical College and Quality CNA Training coordinate rotations at multiple sites, ensuring students meet the required clinical competencies. These partnerships help students apply classroom theory under the supervision of licensed nurses, building confidence and professional references in the process. Some programs also offer exposure to home health or assisted living settings, broadening your perspective on care delivery.
What to Ask About Clinical Placement
Not all programs assign clinical sites the same way. Some allow you to rank preferences, while others place you based on availability. If you have a strong interest in a particular type of facility, like a hospital or a memory care unit, ask the program coordinator how placements are assigned and whether you can request a specific site. Also confirm whether you will need to arrange your own transportation or if the program provides a shuttle.
Wisconsin's Clinical Hour Requirement
The state of Wisconsin mandates a minimum of 32 hours of clinical practice in a nursing home setting, where you perform direct patient care tasks under supervision. This requirement is embedded in the total 120-hour training program. During these hours, you will assist with activities of daily living, take vital signs, and practice infection control, ensuring you are prepared for the state competency exam and real-world nursing assistant roles.
Cost of CNA Training in Fond Du Lac and How to Pay for It
CNA training in Fond du Lac is one of the most affordable career investments you can make, with total costs ranging from zero dollars to roughly $850 depending on the program and your eligibility for financial support.
Tuition and Fee Breakdown by Program
Here is what you can expect to pay at each local training option in 2026:
- Moraine Park Technical College: Tuition and fees total approximately $357, with a free online textbook provided at no extra cost. You will also need to budget around $45 for a required background check and $125 for the state certification exam, bringing the estimated total to about $527.
- Quality CNA Training: The standard tuition is $725 for their four-week hybrid program. The state exam fee of $125 is separate, so plan on roughly $850 total. Students with a sponsor voucher may pay a reduced rate of $650 before exam fees.
- St. Agnes Hospital: This employer-sponsored hybrid program covers tuition entirely, making your out-of-pocket cost $0. In exchange, graduates commit to working at the facility for a set period after completing training.
- ADVOCAP Nursing Skills Program: Eligible students pay nothing. This income-based program covers tuition, course fees, books, required materials, and even childcare during class hours.
Beyond tuition, budget for scrubs (typically $25 to $50) and comfortable clinical shoes if you do not already own them.
Financial Aid and Scholarship Options
Several resources can reduce or eliminate your training costs:
- WIOA Grants: The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act provides funding for qualifying job seekers. Contact your local workforce development office to see if you are eligible.
- Wisconsin Technical College System Scholarships: Moraine Park Technical College participates in scholarship programs offered through the state technical college system. Check the college's financial aid page for current deadlines.
- Federal Pell Grants: Programs at accredited institutions like Moraine Park may qualify for Pell Grant funding, which does not need to be repaid.
- Institutional Payment Plans: Moraine Park offers flexible payment arrangements so you can spread costs across the length of your program rather than paying everything upfront.
Employer-Sponsored Training: The $0 Path
Many nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and hospitals in the Fond du Lac area offer free CNA training in exchange for a work commitment, typically six months to one year. St. Agnes Hospital runs its own six-week hybrid program at no cost. Other area long-term care facilities frequently partner with training providers or run in-house programs. If you are open to working for a specific employer after graduation, this is the most direct way to earn your certification without spending a dime.
The bottom line: total training costs in Fond du Lac are often well below $1,500, and with employer sponsorship or income-based programs through ADVOCAP, you can complete your certification for $0. Financial barriers should not stand between you and a rewarding healthcare career.
Fond Du Lac CNA Graduates: Exam Pass Rates and Job Placement
Knowing how graduates actually fare after training can be just as important as comparing tuition costs or schedules.
Exam Pass Rates: What to Expect
Program-level pass rates for Fond du Lac area schools are not consistently published in a centralized public database, so you will need to ask each program directly for their most recent figures. What is public is how the Wisconsin Nurse Aide Competency Exam itself is structured. Administered by D&S Diversified Technologies through Headmaster, the exam has two parts: a knowledge test of 75 questions (67 multiple choice and 8 reading comprehension) and a hands-on skills evaluation covering five tasks. The passing threshold is 71 percent on the knowledge portion and 80 percent on the skills portion. Programs that provide thorough clinical preparation tend to produce graduates who clear the skills section with confidence, since practicing real tasks with real patients is the best rehearsal.
Job Placement and Employer Partnerships
Local demand for certified nursing assistants in Fond du Lac works in new graduates' favor. Many students receive informal job offers from the very facilities where they completed their clinical hours, which means placement can happen before the ink on the certification is dry. Healthcare employers in the region actively recruit from local programs, and some training sites have established relationships with area nursing homes, assisted living communities, and hospital systems.
Fond du Lac Area Technical College offers career services that can support graduates through the job search process. It is worth asking any program you consider whether they provide resume workshops, mock interviews, or direct connections to hiring employers.
Questions to Ask Before You Enroll
When evaluating programs, treat job outcomes as a key criterion alongside cost and schedule. Specific questions worth raising:
- Pass rate: What percentage of recent graduates passed both portions of the state exam on the first attempt?
- Placement support: Does the program host hiring events or maintain active employer partnerships?
- Clinical connections: Have graduates from recent cohorts received employment offers from their clinical sites?
- Career coaching: Is resume review or interview preparation included, or available as an add-on?
Programs willing to answer these questions openly are generally the ones with results they are proud of.
Top CNA Programs for Fond Du Lac Students
The following ranked list highlights CNA programs serving Fond du Lac students, evaluated using IPEDS completion data, accreditation status, and program fit. Moraine Park Technical College leads with local campus options and accelerated training pathways, while other Wisconsin technical colleges offer strong alternatives for those willing to commute or learn online.
Factors considered
- Institutional completion data
- Accreditation and state approval
- Program affordability and flexibility
- Local clinical partnerships
- Graduate earnings potential
Data sources
- College Scorecard graduate earnings — collegescorecard.ed.gov
- Internal program database
- NCES-IPEDS federal institutional data — nces.ed.gov
- Independent program research
Moraine Park Technical College
#1Fond du Lac, WI · ~$9,000/yr (est.)
Best for: Fond du Lac locals seeking free training
Moraine Park Technical College's Fond du Lac campus is the most direct option for local students, offering a 78-hour, state-approved Nursing Assistant program with zero textbook costs and a total tuition of just $357.40. An accelerated summer boot camp, funded by a U.S. Department of Labor grant, provides free tuition for eligible participants, including veterans and TAA-eligible adults. The college serves as a regional training hub, with graduates earning a median salary of $34,837 and seamless transfer pathways into nursing degrees.
- 2-credit, 78-hour technical diploma program
- State-approved by Wisconsin Department of Health Services
- Multiple campus locations with partial online delivery
- Zero textbook costs; tuition totals $357.40
- Clinical placement opportunities in local facilities
- Graduates eligible for Wisconsin Nurse Aide Registry
- Accelerated boot camp option with free tuition for qualified students
- Median graduate salary of $34,837
Northwood Technical College
#2Rice Lake, WI · $5,000 – $10,000/yr
Best for: Rural students wanting multiple locations
Northwood Technical College offers a 90-hour Nursing Assistant program approved by the Wisconsin DHS, with training available at campuses in Ashland, New Richmond, Rice Lake, and Superior plus outreach centers. The program emphasizes practical skills under licensed supervision and serves as a stepping stone to further nursing education. Financial assistance may be available, though no Fond du Lac-specific partnerships are in place.
- 2-credit, 90-hour technical diploma program
- Approved by Wisconsin Department of Health Services
- Hands-on clinical training under licensed supervision
- Multiple start dates at several Wisconsin campuses
- Prepares for Wisconsin Nursing Assistant competency exam
- Covers infection control, patient care, communication, ethics
- Pathway to further nursing education programs
Southwest Wisconsin Technical College
#3Fennimore, WI · $13,000/yr
Best for: Career changers needing flexible scheduling
Southwest Wisconsin Technical College's Nursing Assistant program is completed in 81 hours, featuring online theory combined with hands-on skills labs and a nursing home clinical. Open to students 16 and older, it offers flexible part-time and full-time scheduling, making it ideal for busy adults. Graduates are fully prepared for the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program exam and Wisconsin certification.
- 81-hour technical diploma program
- Combines online theory with in-person skills training
- Clinical experience in a nursing home setting
- Flexible part-time and full-time class options
- Open to students aged 16 and older
- State-approved curriculum for Wisconsin certification
- No prior healthcare experience required
Mid-State Technical College
#4Wisconsin Rapids, WI · $11,000/yr
Mid-State Technical College provides an affordable 81-hour Nursing Assistant program at just $445.15, offered in a hybrid format with online theory and campus labs. Clinical practicums total 27 hours, and students can choose from daytime, evening, and accelerated 8- or 16-week sessions across multiple campuses. The program is recognized by Wisconsin DHS and prepares graduates for immediate employment.
- 81-hour hybrid technical diploma program
- 27-hour clinical practicum at local healthcare sites
- Total program cost of $445.15 including books and supplies
- Flexible scheduling: daytime, evening, 8- or 16-week options
- Multiple campus locations in central Wisconsin
- State-recognized and prepares for certification exam
- Hands-on simulation center with experienced RN instructors
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College
#5Green Bay, WI · $5,000 – $10,000/yr
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College's Nursing Assistant program is a hybrid, 3-credit technical diploma with online coursework and in-person clinicals. With an 80% pass rate requirement and 91% graduate employment rate, it boasts strong outcomes. Day, evening, and weekend classes at multiple locations provide flexibility, though no specific Fond du Lac partnerships exist.
- 3-credit hybrid technical diploma program
- Combines online learning with clinical experiences
- Approved by Wisconsin Department of Health Services
- 80% minimum pass rate to sit for state competency exam
- Day, evening, and weekend class options available
- 91% graduate employment rate; median salary $39,520
- Credits may apply toward nursing associate degree
Gateway Technical College
#6Kenosha, WI · $13,000/yr
Gateway Technical College offers a 75-hour, campus-based Nursing Assistant program that uses simulation labs with real medical equipment. Total cost is approximately $599, and students must meet reading readiness requirements. Graduates are prepared for the Wisconsin CNA licensure exam, with career paths in hospitals, nursing homes, and home health.
- 75-hour campus-based technical diploma program
- Hands-on simulation labs with real medical equipment
- Total estimated cost of $599, including books
- Prepares for Wisconsin CNA licensure exam
- Available at three campuses in southeastern Wisconsin
- Fall, spring, and summer start dates
- Minimum age 16; reading readiness assessment required
Chippewa Valley Technical College
#7Eau Claire, WI · $12,000/yr (net price)
Chippewa Valley Technical College provides a Nursing Assistant technical diploma in under 14 weeks, with a hybrid option blending online and in-person instruction. The program includes clinical practice in long-term care and boasts a 78% employment rate. Total cost is about $423, and credits can transfer to an associate degree in Nursing.
- Hybrid program completed in under 14 weeks
- Estimated total cost of $423
- Combines online theory, lab, and clinical practice
- Prepares for Wisconsin NA competency evaluation
- 78% graduate employment rate; average salary $36,707
- Credits apply toward Nursing associate degree
- Flexible start dates at Eau Claire and River Falls campuses
Waukesha County Technical College
#8Pewaukee, WI · $10,000 – $15,000/yr
Waukesha County Technical College's 75-hour Nursing Assistant program is available on campus with day, evening, and weekend options. Additional costs for scrubs, background checks, and certification exam apply, but no entrance exam is required. The program prepares students for entry-level healthcare roles with a clear pathway to further nursing education.
- 75-hour campus-based technical diploma
- Flexible day, evening, and weekend class schedules
- Year-round start dates available
- Clinical training in nursing homes or hospitals
- Salary range for graduates: $35,200-$40,300
- Pathway to registered nursing studies
- Minimum age 16; no entrance exam required
Northcentral Technical College
#9Wausau, WI · $5,000 – $7,000/yr
Northcentral Technical College's Nursing Assistant program is a 3-credit, 120-hour technical diploma offered in a hybrid format. Recognized by Wisconsin DHS, it costs approximately $583 and prepares students for the state competency evaluation. The program is a prerequisite for NTC's Nursing Associate Degree, offering a direct advancement route.
- 3-credit, 120-hour hybrid technical diploma
- Approximate total cost of $583
- Recognized by Wisconsin Department of Health Services
- Prepares for state competency evaluation and registry listing
- Prerequisite for Nursing Associate Degree pathway
- Multiple campus locations; online theory component
- Students must be at least 16 years old
Nicolet Area Technical College
#10Rhinelander, WI · ~$8,000/yr (est.)
Nicolet Area Technical College's 118-hour Nursing Assistant program is DHS-approved and combines classroom learning with supervised clinical experience. Tuition is $589 plus $80 for books, and the program includes flexible term starts. While focused on northern Wisconsin, it provides a solid foundation for the state certification exam.
- 118-hour campus-based technical diploma
- Tuition $589; books and supplies $80
- Approved by Wisconsin Department of Health Services
- Supervised clinical experience in local facilities
- Prepares for Wisconsin nursing assistant competency evaluation
- Flexible term starts throughout the year
- Covers patient care, documentation, safety, and ethics
Wisconsin employed 27,480 nursing assistants in 2024, making it one of the largest healthcare support occupations in the state, per the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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Frequently Asked Questions About CNA Classes in Fond Du Lac
Prospective nursing assistants often have questions about training length, cost, and state requirements. Below, we answer the most common inquiries to help you get started on your CNA career path in Fond du Lac.
Wisconsin requires a minimum of 75 hours of training, including 16 clinical hours. Local programs like Moraine Park Technical College offer 78 hours and Quality CNA Training provides 75 hours. Most students complete the program in 4 to 8 weeks, depending on full-time or part-time scheduling.
Moraine Park Technical College's Nursing Assistant Program costs $357.40, making it the most affordable option. Quality CNA Training charges $650. Both include necessary instruction and clinical experience, but Moraine Park's lower price point is a standout value for budget-conscious students.
Yes, hybrid CNA programs are available. Wisconsin permits online coursework combined with in-person clinicals. This approach lets you complete theory at home while attending mandatory hands-on sessions locally. Confirm with the program that state requirements are fully met.
Complete a state-approved program with at least 75 hours (including 16 clinical hours), pass the Wisconsin Nurse Aide Competency Exam, clear a criminal background check, and apply for listing on the Wisconsin Nurse Aide Registry. Some programs may have additional enrollment prerequisites.
The median annual wage for CNAs in the Fond du Lac area is around $34,837, based on data from local training providers. Actual pay varies by employer, experience, and shift differentials, with nursing homes, hospitals, and home care agencies offering different rates.
Yes, a criminal background check is mandatory for enrollment in most programs, like Quality CNA Training, and for state registry. It ensures patient safety. Disqualifying offenses may include certain felonies or abuse-related convictions; review Wisconsin's regulations for specifics.
Certification renewal typically occurs every two years and requires proof of employed hours as a CNA and completion of continuing education. Contact the Wisconsin Nurse Aide Registry for current renewal procedures and deadlines to maintain your active status.
CNAs in Fond du Lac can pursue advanced roles such as Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN) through bridge programs at local colleges. Many employers support further education with tuition reimbursement and flexible scheduling to help you grow in healthcare.
