Are you passionate about delivering compassionate care and making a difference in people’s lives? Southwestern Illinois College’s Nurse Assistant program offers a comprehensive pathway to a rewarding career in healthcare. By combining classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience, this state-approved program equips you with the skills needed to excel as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in a variety of healthcare settings.
CNA Program Quick Facts
- Program Length: One semester (can be completed in 6-16 weeks depending on format)
- Cost: $1,324 total (includes tuition, fees, textbooks, and certification exam)
- Accreditation: Approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH)
- State Exam Pass Rate: Not specified
- Program Schedule: Multiple enrollment opportunities in fall, spring, and summer terms
CNA Training Structure
Classroom Learning
The curriculum provides comprehensive instruction in essential healthcare knowledge and skills including:
- Anatomy and physiology
- Medical terminology
- Personal care of patients
- Body mechanics
- Vital signs measurement
- Special treatments and care procedures
- Communication skills
Clinical Experience
Students gain valuable hands-on experience through:
- Practical clinical experiences in local nursing homes and hospitals
- Application of classroom knowledge in real healthcare settings
- Supervised patient care practice
- Development of professional skills and relationships
Clinical experience is generally completed during the same time frame as the course lecture/lab time, except for specific sections where clinicals are scheduled in the morning.
Admission Requirements
- Must be at least 16 years of age
- Completed at least 8 years of grade school or provide proof of equivalent knowledge
- Pass the reading part of the placement test (scores high enough to enroll in ENG 94)
- Clear criminal background check (required for all healthcare workers with direct patient contact)
- Good physical and emotional health
- Good interpersonal communication skills
- Attendance at all class sessions is required
CNA Class Schedule Flexibility
SWIC offers multiple enrollment opportunities throughout the academic year:
- Fall and Spring Semesters: Available in 16-week and accelerated 6-week formats
- Summer Semester: Offered in 8-week format
- Classes available at multiple campuses: Belleville, Sam Wolf Granite City, Red Bud, and East St. Louis
- Various times and days of the week to accommodate different schedules
Need more flexibility? Browse CNA programs with schedules that fit your life.
Tuition & Financial Aid Information
Program Costs (2024-2025)
- Tuition (7 credit hours): $861.00
- Technology fee: $42.00
- Activities fee: $21.00
- NA course lab fee: $125.00
- Immunizations: $50.00
- Uniforms and shoes: $135.00
- Watch with second-hand: $60.00
- Gait belt: $15.00
- Required textbooks: $15.00
- Illinois Nurse Aide Testing Fee: $135.00
- Total Estimated Cost: $1,324.00
Not sure if this fits your budget? Compare tuition at other CNA programs nearby.
Financial Assistance Options
- Traditional financial aid options
- Payment plans available
- Workforce development grants for eligible students
Program Location & Contact Information
The program is offered at multiple SWIC locations in Illinois:
- Belleville Campus: 2500 Carlyle Ave., Belleville, IL 62221
- Sam Wolf Granite City Campus: 4950 Maryville Road, Granite City, IL 62040
- Red Bud Campus: 500 W. South Fourth St., Red Bud, IL 62278
- East St. Louis Campus: 601 James R Thompson Blvd, East St Louis, IL 62201
Program Coordinator Contact:
Stephanie Reid
Phone: 618-641-5906
Email: [email protected]
Not Sure This Program Is the Right Fit?
Compare it with other accredited CNA classes nearby—explore different schedules, costs, and training options before you decide.
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