The nursing assistant program aims to prepare you for entry into the field of nursing assistants. Certified nursing assistants (CNAs) work in nursing homes, hospitals and other medical settings. The nursing assistant program at Lake Superior College in Duluth, MN starts with the basics. You’ll start by working in a lab setting on campus. Then you’ll move on to a clinical environment such as a local hospital or long-term care facility. Graduates will be prepared to take the MN Nursing Assistant Registry test. Upon completion of the course, take the Nursing Assistant Test Out (NATO) to complete your certification. NATO exams are not included in the CNA registration course fee. 3 credits for prior learning can be awarded upon course completion.
Pre-Reqs
- Background Check: Students must be 16 years of age or older and must have a background study done through Minnesota Department of Human Services, and a National Background Study. Students are responsible for the cost of the background studies. Background study process will be sent to student in confirmation email. **Students will not be allowed to participate in clinicals unless background studies are complete.**
- Tuberculosis (TB) Test: Students must have a TB test with negative result within 90 days of clinicals. Students are responsible for the cost of the test. Test process will be sent to student in confirmation email. **Students will not be allowed to participate in clinicals if the TB (Mantoux) test is not complete or results are positive.**
- No refunds will be issued if students cannot participate in clinicals.
- Students must have a reliable computer with internet access as well as access to a printer and scanner and understand the concept of an online class.
Supplies + Textbook
A textbook will be provided on the first day of class. Scrubs will need to be purchased by the student before the first day of an on-campus class and worn throughout classes and clinicals.
Online Course (D2L & Zoom)
A registration confirmation email will be sent to you once you register. The confirmation email will have instructions on logging into the course. It is the student’s responsibility to login prior to the course starting to verify that you can access the system. The CNA online course is instructed through D2L and zoom.
Loans, Grants and Financing and Employer Reimbursement
While our program is not financial aid eligible, there may be grants/payment/financing options available to you from private sources.
Employer Reimbursement
Participants may get reimbursed for the cost of the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) course by working for an Assisted Living or Skilled Nursing facility. Contact your employer or desired employer to ask about CNA payment/reimbursement policy.
