NorthWest Arkansas Community College CNA Program

Starting your journey as a Certified Nursing Assistant can transform your life and the lives of those you’ll care for. NorthWest Arkansas Community College in Bentonville, Arkansas offers a comprehensive CNA/PCA+ program that prepares you for immediate entry into the healthcare field. This program is ideal for recent high school graduates seeking a stable career path, career changers looking for meaningful work, and working adults who want to enter healthcare quickly.

The NorthWest Arkansas Community College CNA program develops essential healthcare competencies in safety, infection control, vital signs, and working with geriatric residents in long-term care facilities. Upon successful completion, you’ll be eligible to take the state nurse assistant certification exam and begin your rewarding career in healthcare.

CNA Program Quick Facts

• Program Length: Please contact the program directly for current program length information
• Cost of Program: $139 (in-district), $209 (out-of-district), $218 (out-of-state) per credit hour, plus additional costs ranging from $325-$379 for materials and fees
• Accreditation: Approved by the Arkansas State Office of Long Term Care
• State Exam Pass Rate: 93.3% (2018 data showing 42 out of 45 first-time testers passed)
• CNA Program Schedule: Offered each semester, applications accepted up to one week prior to semester start

CNA Training Structure

NorthWest Arkansas Community College’s CNA program provides comprehensive preparation for professional nursing assistant practice through structured learning experiences.

Classroom Learning

The program develops healthcare competencies in safety, infection control, vital signs, and specialized skills for working with geriatric residents in long-term care facilities. Students gain foundational knowledge necessary for safe, effective patient care.

Clinical Experience

Students complete supervised clinical rotations in long-term care facilities where they apply classroom knowledge in real patient care situations. This hands-on experience builds confidence and practical skills essential for CNA practice.

Exam Preparation

The program prepares students to successfully pass the state nurse assistant certification exam. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to take the certification exam and begin working as CNAs.

Admission Requirements

NorthWest Arkansas Community College maintains selective admission standards to ensure student success in the CNA program.

Academic Prerequisites

• Overall GPA of 2.5
• Must demonstrate ability to communicate safely, accurately, and effectively in both written and spoken English

Placement Score Requirements

Students must meet one of the following criteria:

• Reading score of 19+ on ACT, 83+ on Compass, or 78+ on Accuplacer
• Completion of READ 0033 or ENGA 0033 College Reading with a “C” or better
• Successful completion of at least one semester of college level courses with a grade of “C” or better

Required Documentation

• Completed NWACC application and CNA/PCA+ program application
• Background check completion
• 10-panel drug screen
• CastleBranch account setup with required immunization documentation including MMR, Varicella, TB screening, Hepatitis B, and Tdap

Special Considerations

Students whose first language is not English must complete an ESL listening test with a score of 92+ on COMPASS ESL or 120+ on Accuplacer ESL listening test.

CNA Class Schedule & Flexibility

The NorthWest Arkansas Community College CNA program offers classes each semester with application periods opening one week prior to semester start.

Applications and all required materials must be received by the division office by 3:00 p.m. on the final day of the application period. The program has limited enrollment each term, making early application important for acceptance.

Please contact the program directly for current class schedule options and specific start dates.

Tuition & Financial Aid Information

Program Tuition Fees

NorthWest Arkansas Community College uses differential tuition rates for health profession programs:

• In-District Residents: $139.00 per credit hour
• Out-of-District Residents: $209.00 per credit hour
• Out-of-State Residents: $218.00 per credit hour
• International Students: $273.00 per credit hour

Additional Program Expenses

• State exam (optional): $85
• Uniform: $36-$50
• CastleBranch account: $125
• Immunizations (varies by individual needs): $25 and up
• Required workbook: $40
• Textbooks: $39-$79

Financial Assistance

Financial aid is available for eligible students. Students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for federal financial aid programs. The college also offers payment plan options and various fee payment methods to support student affordability.

How to Apply

The NorthWest Arkansas Community College CNA program application process involves several important steps:

1. Apply to NWACC: If you’re not currently enrolled at NWACC, you must first apply for college admission
2. Complete CNA/PCA+ Application: Submit the specific program application packet
3. Set up CastleBranch Account: Create account and upload all required immunization and health documentation
4. Complete Background Check and Drug Screen: Both are required prior to clinical rotations
5. Meet Application Deadline: All materials must be received by 3:00 p.m. one week prior to semester start

Applicants will be notified of acceptance by email two weeks after the application deadline. Upon acceptance, students can register for appropriate classes once all CastleBranch documentation is complete.

CNA Program Location & Contact Information

• Institution Name: NorthWest Arkansas Community College
• Address: One College Drive, Bentonville, AR 72712
• Program Phone Number: (479) 986-6790
• Main College Phone: (479) 986-4000
• Email: [email protected]
• Program Office: Center for Health Professions, Room 1051
• Office Hours: Monday-Thursday 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm, Friday by appointment only
• Website: www.nwacc.edu

Additional Resources

NorthWest Arkansas Community College provides comprehensive program information through their health professions division website. Students can access detailed information about physical demands of CNA work, professional licensure requirements, and program success rates through the college’s online resources.

The college also maintains information for out-of-state students through their Canvas platform, helping students understand any special considerations for non-Arkansas residents.

Summary and Next Steps

The NorthWest Arkansas Community College CNA program in Bentonville, Arkansas provides a solid foundation for entering the healthcare field with strong academic preparation and practical clinical experience. With an impressive 93.3% exam pass rate and approval from the Arkansas State Office of Long Term Care, this program positions you for success in your nursing assistant career.

Before you decide, make sure you’re choosing the right CNA program for your goals.
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