Southern Arkansas University Tech CNA Program

Beginning your journey as a Certified Nursing Assistant opens doors to a rewarding healthcare career where you’ll make a meaningful difference in patients’ lives every day. Southern Arkansas University Tech offers a comprehensive Nursing Assistant Certificate of Proficiency program designed for individuals who want to enter healthcare quickly and confidently. This certified nursing assistant training program is perfect for recent high school graduates, career changers seeking stable employment, and working adults looking for a fast track into the healthcare field.

The Southern Arkansas University Tech Nursing Assistant Training Program combines classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience in nursing home environments. Students who successfully complete this 7-credit hour program earn a Certificate of Proficiency and become eligible to take both the skills and written tests required to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). The program meets all requirements and maintains approval from the Arkansas Office of Long Term Care.

CNA Program Quick Facts

• Program Length: 7 credit hours
• Cost of Program: $1,176 (Arkansas residents), $1,512 (out-of-state students)
• Accreditation: Approved by the Arkansas Office of Long Term Care
• State Exam Pass Rate: Please contact the program directly for current exam pass rate information
• CNA Program Schedule: Scheduled on an as-needed basis, limited to 12 students per class

CNA Training Structure

The Southern Arkansas University Tech CNA program provides comprehensive preparation through integrated classroom and clinical learning experiences.

Classroom Learning

Students complete NA 1207 Nursing Assistant, a comprehensive 7-credit course covering all essential knowledge and skills required for nursing assistant practice. The curriculum meets Arkansas Office of Long Term Care standards and prepares students for professional certification examinations.

Clinical Experience

The program provides clinical training in nursing home environments, giving students hands-on experience with real patient care situations. This practical component ensures graduates are prepared for the responsibilities they’ll encounter as certified nursing assistants.

Exam Preparation

Upon successful program completion, students are eligible to take both the skills and written tests required for CNA certification. The program curriculum specifically prepares students to meet all testing requirements established by the Arkansas Office of Long Term Care.

Admission Requirements

Southern Arkansas University Tech maintains specific admission standards to ensure student success in the Nursing Assistant program.

Basic Prerequisites

• Must be at least 16 years of age
• Arkansas driver’s license or state-approved photo identification required
• Criminal background check as required by the Arkansas Office of Long Term Care

Health Requirements

Upon admission, students must submit an Arkansas Health Card obtained through the Public Health Department for a minimal fee. This includes a serial tuberculosis skin test screen that should be started as soon as possible after admission.

Academic Standards

Students must maintain a minimum 2.00 cumulative grade point average for program completion and satisfy all financial obligations due to the college.

CNA Class Schedule & Flexibility

The Southern Arkansas University Tech Nursing Assistant program is offered on an as-needed basis with enrollment limited to 12 students per class. This small class size ensures personalized attention and quality instruction for all participants.

The program schedule varies based on demand and availability. Students should contact the program directly for information about upcoming class start dates and current scheduling options.

Tuition & Financial Aid Information

Program Tuition Fees

Southern Arkansas University Tech offers competitive tuition rates for the 7-credit hour Nursing Assistant program:

Arkansas Residents (per credit hour):

• Tuition: $115
• Processing fee: $25
• Facility use fee: $5
• Technology fee: $9
• Activity fee: $11
• Security fee: $3
• Total per credit hour: $168
• Total program cost: $1,176

Out-of-State Students (per credit hour):

• Tuition: $163
• Processing fee: $25
• Facility use fee: $5
• Technology fee: $9
• Activity fee: $11
• Security fee: $3
• Total per credit hour: $216
• Total program cost: $1,512

Payment Options

Full payment of tuition and fees is due on or before the date specified on your student account statement. Payment methods include credit/debit card via telephone, in-person payment, mailing a personal check, or payment plan options through Nelnet Business Solutions E-Cashier.

Please contact the program directly for information about financial aid options and payment plan availability.

How to Apply

The Southern Arkansas University Tech Nursing Assistant program follows a straightforward application process designed to help qualified students begin their healthcare education.

Prospective students should contact the college to learn about current program availability, as classes are scheduled on an as-needed basis with limited enrollment. The application process includes meeting age and identification requirements, completing the required criminal background check, and arranging for the Arkansas Health Card through the Public Health Department.

Since enrollment is limited to 12 students per class, early application is recommended when classes become available.

CNA Program Location & Contact Information

• Institution Name: Southern Arkansas University Tech
• Address: 6415 Spellman Road, Camden, AR 71711
• Phone Number: (870) 574-4500
• Website: https://www.sautech.edu/

For tuition and fee information, contact the SAU Tech Business Office at 870-574-4461 or 870-574-4508.

Additional Resources

Southern Arkansas University Tech provides comprehensive program information through their degree plan documentation, which outlines the complete curriculum structure and graduation requirements. Students can access information about the Arkansas Course Transfer System (ACTS) for understanding course transferability within Arkansas public colleges and universities.

The college catalog contains detailed information about refund policies, payment schedules, and additional program requirements that students should review before enrollment.

Summary and Next Steps

The Southern Arkansas University Tech Nursing Assistant program provides an excellent foundation for entering the healthcare field through comprehensive training and preparation for state certification. With approval from the Arkansas Office of Long Term Care and hands-on clinical experience in nursing home environments, this program positions you for success as a Certified Nursing Assistant.

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