Columbine Health Systems CNA Program

Columbine Health Systems offers a comprehensive Nurse Assistant Training Program in Fort Collins, Colorado, designed to prepare students for meaningful careers in healthcare. This program serves career changers seeking stable employment, recent high school graduates exploring healthcare opportunities, and working adults who need flexible scheduling to balance education with their current responsibilities.

The certified nursing assistant training in Fort Collins, Colorado provides 92 hours of intensive instruction combining classroom learning, hands-on lab practice, and real-world clinical experience. Approved by the Colorado Board of Nursing, this CNA program in northern Colorado prepares graduates to sit for the state certification exam and begin their healthcare careers with confidence.

CNA Program Quick Facts

• Program Length: 92 hours total (varies from a few weeks to 11.5 weeks depending on schedule chosen)
• Cost of Program: $1,875 tuition (includes textbook and processing fees), with total estimated costs ranging from $1,725-$2,010 including all requirements
• Accreditation: Approved by the Colorado Board of Nursing and complies with all applicable state and federal regulations
• State Exam Pass Rate: Contact the program directly for more information about current pass rates
• CNA Program Schedule: Full-time day classes (Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm) and part-time evening classes (4:30pm-8:30pm for 10-11.5 weeks)

CNA Training Structure

The Columbine Health Systems certified nursing assistant program provides comprehensive preparation through structured learning phases under direct supervision of licensed nurses.

• Classroom Learning: The curriculum covers basic nursing assistant procedures, skills, restorative services, patient care, safety, and emergency care. Students develop understanding of responsibilities for working with patients of all ages in wellness and illness situations, mental health issues, patient rights, and patient/family interactions. The program includes 72 hours of classroom and laboratory instruction.
• Clinical Experience: Students complete 20 hours of supervised clinical instruction in Columbine Health Systems facilities under direct supervision of an RN or LPN. Clinical rotations are limited to 10 students per day per facility, with mandatory orientation sessions before beginning clinical work. The pre-clinical classroom component must be completed before any direct resident contact.
• Exam Preparation: Upon successful program completion, students receive a Course Completion Affidavit and assistance with submitting their “Certification by Examination” application to Pearson-Vue for the Colorado state certification exam.

Admission Requirements

Columbine Health Systems has specific qualifications for entry into the CNA program:

• Age and Education Prerequisites: Minimum age 17 years (if under 18, signed parent/guardian consent required). Students must read, write, comprehend, and speak English well enough to communicate effectively with residents and healthcare team members.
• Required Documentation:
  • Criminal background check with no disqualifying events (valid for 3 months before class start)
  • Current TB skin test and/or chest x-ray (within 1 year)
  • Proof of current influenza vaccination (October 1 through April 30)
  • Physical capabilities including ability to walk/stand during 8-hour shifts, squat, bend, and reach using proper body mechanics
  • Ability to distinguish smells, tastes, and temperature ranges
• Personal Qualifications: Candidates must express interest in people without exclusions, maintain positive attitude toward the elderly, desire to be a caregiver, and understand confidentiality importance.

CNA Class Schedule & Flexibility

The program accommodates different student needs through multiple scheduling options:

• Full-Time Day Classes: Monday through Friday, 9:00am to 5:00pm, followed by 2.5 days of clinical experience in Columbine skilled facilities
• Part-Time Evening Classes: Evenings from 4:30pm to 8:30pm for 10 to 11.5 weeks (depending on the specific class), includes 2.5 days of clinical experience
• Class Size Limitations: Each class is limited to 18 students maximum to ensure personalized attention and quality instruction
• Clinical Scheduling: If unable to complete clinical rotation with enrolled class, students must finish within 30 days or retake the entire course

Tuition & Financial Aid Information

• Program Tuition: $1,875 total cost includes training program, textbook, lab supplies, gait belt, scrubs, and name tag
• Additional Required Expenses:
  • State exam fee: $135 (paid directly to Colorado State Board of Nursing)
  • Background check: $22 and up (varies by research required)
  • TB test: $15-$25
  • Flu shot: $15-$30 (seasonal requirement)
• Total Estimated Cost: $1,725-$2,010 for complete program including all requirements
• Financial Support: Financial assistance programs available including nursing scholarships, tuition reimbursement, and retention bonuses. Additional support through Weld County and Larimer County employment and training programs for eligible residents.
• Payment Terms: Full tuition payment required prior to reserving class slot via cash or credit card. No payment plans available.

How to Apply

To enroll in the Columbine Health Systems CNA program:

1. Registration: Contact the Geriatric Education Center (GEC) at (970) 494-6455 for registration form and course enrollment
2. Background Check: Complete criminal background check within 3 months of class start date and submit results to GEC
3. Health Requirements: Provide current TB test results and flu vaccination proof (if applicable for season)
4. Payment: Pay full tuition at least one week before class start date
5. Waitlist Policy: If class is full, candidates with complete applications and background checks receive priority placement

Students can also apply online through the EventSquid registration system for available class sessions.

CNA Program Location & Contact Information

• Institution Name: Columbine Health Systems Geriatric Education Center
• Address: 802 West Drake Road, Suite 101, Fort Collins, Colorado 80526
• Program Phone: (970) 494-6455
• General Contact: (970) 482-0198
• Email: Contact form available at columbinehealth.com for program inquiries
• Website: https://columbinehealth.com/nurse-assistant-training/

Additional Resources

Students have access to several helpful program resources:

• Training Policies: Comprehensive policies covering admission requirements, course policies, completion criteria, and disqualifying offenses available at columbinehealth.com/trainingpolicies
• Background Check Portal: Secure online portal for completing required background check authorization at trudiligence.bgsecured.com
• Clinical Experience Information: Details about clinical training programs and facilities available at columbinehealth.com/clinicalexperience
• Job Description: Detailed CNA position requirements and responsibilities available as downloadable PDF
• Financial Aid Resources: Information about county-specific employment and training programs for Weld and Larimer County residents

Summary and Next Steps

The Columbine Health Systems CNA program in Fort Collins, Colorado provides comprehensive training for aspiring certified nursing assistants through expert instruction, hands-on clinical experience, and direct pathways to employment. With flexible scheduling options, thorough preparation for state certification, and strong job placement opportunities within the Columbine Health Systems network, this program offers an accessible entry point into the rewarding healthcare field.

Ready to begin your healthcare career with a trusted name in northern Colorado healthcare? Contact the Geriatric Education Center at (970) 494-6455 to learn about upcoming class schedules and enrollment requirements. If you’re still exploring your options, consider researching other CNA programs in the Fort Collins and northern Colorado area to find the perfect fit for your educational goals and career timeline.

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