Thomas Reed, RN
June 23, 2025
CNA training programs in Colorado provide brief educational programs that teach students to assist patients with basic care duties under registered nurse and licensed practical nurse supervision. The frontline healthcare workforce of Colorado depends on Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) to provide essential patient care in hospitals along with nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home health settings. Nursing assistants assist patients with bathing as well as dressing, eating tasks, and record vital signs to report any patient condition changes.
Lamar, CO - Public 2-Year - lamarcc.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Nurse Aide Certificate at Lamar Community College provides essential training for those seeking to enter the healthcare field quickly. This hands-on program equips students with critical skills to provide compassionate patient care in various medical settings. Designed for individuals looking to start a rewarding healthcare career, the certificate offers practical training that prepares students for direct patient interaction and professional certification.
Pueblo, CO - Public 4-Year - pueblocc.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Pueblo Community College's Certified Nurse Aid Health Care Skills program provides a comprehensive pathway for students seeking to enter the healthcare field. This intensive course prepares aspiring healthcare professionals with essential clinical skills and professional competencies. Students learn critical patient care techniques, medical protocols, and develop the technical and interpersonal skills needed to excel as nurse aides. The program covers crucial areas including patient interaction, medical documentation, safety procedures, and healthcare ethics. Participants gain hands-on clinical experience through structured training, positioning themselves for immediate employment in various healthcare settings. With a focus on practical skills and professional development, this program offers an efficient route to launching a rewarding healthcare career.
Colorado students can enroll in online and hybrid CNA programs which provide flexible learning alternatives for those who prefer non-traditional classroom education. The hybrid format lets students study anatomy, infection control, and patient care principles through virtual classes and self-paced modules while completing most lecture and theory coursework online. CNA training in Colorado requires students to participate in face-to-face instruction sessions as part of their curriculum.
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Lamar Community College |
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| Pueblo Community College |
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| Eligibility Prerequisites | At least 16 years old, complete a state-approved NATCEP, clear FBI/CBI fingerprint background checks, meet immunization and physical-exam requirements, and obtain BLS/CPR certification |
|---|---|
| Certifying Board | Colorado Board of Nursing under the Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) |
| Training Program | Complete a NATCEP of at least 75 hours total, including a minimum of 16 classroom hours and 16 supervised clinical hours |
| Fees | $145 combined exam fee, retest fees of $50 for knowledge and $95 for skills, $50 endorsement/reinstatement application fee |
| Exam | Pass the NNAAP within 24 months of application, either the written (70 questions) or oral (60+10 questions) knowledge test plus a five-skill practical evaluation |
| Registry Activation | Credentia submits passing results electronically and the Nurse Aide Registry is updated by the next business day |
| Renewal Requirements | Renew every two years by completing at least 8 hours of paid nursing-related work under RN/LPN supervision in the prior 24 months |
| Endorsement | Out-of-state CNAs apply online via the DORA portal, submit proof of active, unencumbered certification, complete fingerprinting, and pay a $50 fee without retesting |
Certified nurse aides in Colorado earn a steady income. CNA professionals in Colorado receive an average hourly wage of $18 in 2025 which translates to yearly compensation of $38,000. The starting pay for new CNAs usually ranges between $15-$17 per hour but experienced staff members working in hospitals earn above $20 per hour. CNAs working in Denver and other Front Range cities receive higher wages than those working in rural areas although some rural employers provide hiring incentives to hire staff.
| Salary & Career Outlook | Colorado | USA |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Annual CNA Salary | $35,480 | $62,340 |
| Avg Hourly Wage | $17.00 | $29.97 |
| 90th Percentile Salary | >$40,352 | $80,510 |
| Median Salary | $35,475 | $62,340 |
| 10th Percentile Salary | <$29,825 | $47,960 |
| Projected Job Growth (2022–2032) | 25% | 3% |
| Annual Job Openings | ~3,280 | ~54,000 |
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Lamar Community College |
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| Pueblo Community College |
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Nurse aides can use their position to move toward higher nursing roles in their career. The majority of residents of colorado who start their healthcare journey as nurse aides go on to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) or Registered Nurses (RNs) after additional education. The direct patient care experience gained through CNA work provides excellent preparation for nursing school admission and several Colorado nursing programs require or favor candidates who have CNA experience. Additional education and licensing after being a CNA will allow someone to become either an LPN or RN. Several healthcare organizations collaborate with community colleges to establish official bridge programs which support CNA-to-LPN-to-RN career advancement. CNA professionals find it simpler to move up to nursing roles at higher levels because of these programs.
Additional Nursing Programs in Colorado
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