Rock Valley College CNA Program

The Nursing Aide Certificate Program at Rock Valley College in Rockford, Illinois offers an excellent entry point into the healthcare field. Whether you’re a recent high school graduate looking to start your career or someone seeking a career change with purpose, this program prepares you to become a qualified Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). With a strong focus on both theoretical knowledge and hands-on clinical experience, Rock Valley’s CNA training equips students with the essential skills needed in various healthcare settings. Upon successful completion, you’ll be eligible to take the Illinois Nurse Training Competency Evaluation and begin your journey as a healthcare professional in Rockford and beyond.

CNA Program Quick Facts

• Program Length: 120 hours total (80 hours of theory in the classroom and 40 hours of clinical experience)
• Cost of Program: $125 per credit hour for in-district students plus associated fees (Technology Fee: $10/credit hour, Activity Fee: $9/credit hour, Registration Fee: $2/term, Course Fee: $1/course)
• Accreditation: Approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health
• State Exam Pass Rate: 95% for on-campus program and 100% for hybrid program (2023 data)
• CNA Program Schedule: Flexible options including morning, afternoon, or evening sessions

CNA Training Structure

• Classroom Learning The program provides 80 hours of comprehensive theory instruction in the classroom. Students learn the fundamental principles and procedures of nursing assistance, covering essential topics needed to deliver quality patient care. The curriculum is designed to build a strong foundation of knowledge that prepares students for their clinical experiences and future careers as CNAs.
• Clinical Experience Students complete 40 hours of supervised clinical experience in a healthcare facility. This hands-on training component is mandatory and allows students to apply classroom knowledge in real healthcare settings under guidance. These practical experiences are essential for developing the skills and confidence needed to provide direct patient care.
• Exam Preparation The program thoroughly prepares students for the Illinois Nurse Assistant/Aide Competency Examination. Students who complete the program with a grade of “C” or better (the program requires 80% to pass) become eligible to take this state examination. Upon passing the exam, graduates earn their CNA credentials and can begin working in various healthcare settings.

Admission Requirements

• All students interested in the Nursing Aide program must view the CNA Information Session online (mandatory)
• Fingerprinting and Criminal Background Check (requires a valid Social Security Number and a photo ID; cost: $34.50, subject to change)
• Physical exam with NO lifting restrictions
• Proof of vaccinations including:
  • COVID vaccine
  • TB 2-Step or blood test
  • Seasonal flu vaccine
• Other requirements at student expense include uniform/shoes, textbooks, and state exam fees

Please note that a student’s criminal background could prevent participation in clinical practice, thereby preventing program admission.

CNA Class Schedule & Flexibility

Rock Valley College offers a flexible program with multiple schedule options to accommodate different needs and availability:

• Morning sessions
• Afternoon sessions
• Evening sessions

Students are required to attend all components of the Nursing Aide program as mandated by the Illinois Department of Public Health. This includes orientation days, lectures, skills lab, and clinical sessions. Students should plan for at least 30 minutes of travel time between the clinical site and main campus if they have scheduled classes either before or after NAD 101.

Tuition & Financial Aid Information

• Base Tuition: $125 per credit hour for in-district students
• Additional Fees:
  • Technology Fee: $10 per credit hour
  • Activity Fee: $9 per credit hour
  • Registration Fee: $2 per term (non-refundable)
  • Course Fee: $1 per course
  • Distance Learning Fee: $53 per class (for online courses)
• Other Expenses:
  • Fingerprinting and criminal background check: $34.50 (subject to change)
  • Physical exam
  • Immunizations/vaccinations
  • Uniform and shoes
  • Textbooks
  • Illinois Nurse Assistant/Aide Competency Examination fee: approximately $85

Financial assistance options are available at Rock Valley College. Students should explore:

• Financial aid options
• Scholarships
• Funding through the Workforce Equity Initiative (WEI)

Please contact the Rock Valley College Financial Aid Office for the most up-to-date information about available financial assistance.

How to Apply

To apply to the Nursing Aide program at Rock Valley College:

1. View the mandatory CNA Information Session online
2. Complete the general application to Rock Valley College
3. Undergo fingerprinting and a criminal background check (requires a valid Social Security Number and photo ID)
4. Meet all health requirements (physical exam with no lifting restrictions, vaccinations)
5. Register for the program
6. Obtain required materials (uniform/shoes, textbooks)

For specific application deadlines and more detailed information about the application process, please contact the Health Sciences Division directly.

CNA Program Location & Contact Information

• Institution name: Rock Valley College
• Address: 3301 North Mulford Road, Rockford, IL 61114 (Main Campus – Health Sciences Center)
• Phone Number: (815) 921-3261
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: https://rockvalleycollege.edu/academics/programs/nursing-aide.php

Additional Resources

Rock Valley College provides several resources to help prospective and current CNA students:

• CNA Information Session Video: A mandatory online session that provides essential information about the program
• Program Catalog: Detailed information about course requirements and program structure
• Financial Aid Resources: Information about tuition assistance, scholarships, and payment options
• Academic Advising: Help with developing clear pathways to career or further education goals
• Request Information Form: Online form to get more specific information about the program

Summary and Next Steps

The Nursing Aide Certificate Program at Rock Valley College in Rockford, Illinois provides a solid foundation for your healthcare career. With impressive exam pass rates (95% for on-campus and 100% for hybrid formats), the program prepares you thoroughly for success as a Certified Nursing Assistant. The flexible scheduling options make it accessible for various lifestyles, whether you’re a recent high school graduate, a working professional, or someone looking to change careers.

Upon completing this program, you’ll be eligible to take the Illinois Nurse Assistant/Aide Competency Examination and begin working in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and other healthcare settings. For many students, the CNA program also serves as a stepping stone to further education in nursing or other healthcare fields, as it’s a prerequisite for the Nursing A.A.S. Degree program at Rock Valley College.

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