Hannah Pierce, BSN
June 23, 2025
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) programs prepare individuals to provide essential care for patients in a variety of healthcare environments. In Minnesota, CNAs play a critical role in supporting both patients and licensed nurses by assisting with daily activities like feeding, bathing, mobility, and monitoring vital signs. They are often found working in nursing homes, long-term care facilities, hospitals, and home health care settings.
Cloquet, MN - Public 4-Year - fdltcc.edu
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Nursing Assistant certificate at Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College provides a comprehensive short-term training program designed to launch healthcare careers quickly. Students prepare for employment as registered nursing assistants through a focused curriculum meeting Minnesota Department of Health requirements. The program covers essential skills with a minimum of 75 training hours, including supervised practical clinical training, positioning graduates for immediate workforce entry in healthcare settings.
Austin, MN - Public 2-Year - riverland.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Riverland Community College's Nursing Assistant Certificate offers a fast-track pathway into healthcare, providing comprehensive training to launch or enhance nursing careers. This 4-credit program prepares students for the Minnesota Nursing Assistant Competency Exam, equipping them with essential skills for patient care in diverse healthcare settings. Students gain hands-on experience and theoretical knowledge, positioning themselves for immediate employment in nursing homes, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers.
White Bear Lake, MN - Public 2-Year - century.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Century College's Nursing Assistant Certificate provides a fast-track pathway to direct patient care careers. Students learn essential skills for working in long-term care, acute care, and home health settings. The program prepares participants to take the Minnesota Department of Health Nursing Assistant Registry examination, offering flexible daytime and evening class options. Affordable tuition and potential financial aid make this an accessible professional training opportunity.
Minnesota does offer hybrid CNA training programs that combine online coursework with in-person lab and clinical experiences. While the theoretical portion of CNA education can sometimes be completed online, all hands-on training must be conducted face-to-face to meet state certification requirements. These hybrid formats are especially helpful for students with work or family obligations, offering flexibility without compromising essential clinical experience. Many programs also offer evening or weekend classes to accommodate diverse schedules. This accessibility makes it easier for working adults or those with caregiving responsibilities to pursue a healthcare career.
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Riverland Community College |
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| Century College |
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| Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College |
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| Eligibility Prerequisites | At least 16, cleared DHS fingerprint background study, meet immunization and health requirements, and graduate from a Minnesota-approved CNA program |
|---|---|
| Certifying Board | Minnesota Department of Health Nurse Aide Registry |
| Training Program Requirements | 75 hours total (minimum 16 supervised clinical hours) in a state-approved NATCEP |
| Exam and Application Fees | Combined knowledge and skills test fee (approximately $265), additional retest fees apply |
| Certification Exam | Pass both the multiple-choice knowledge test and the hands-on skills evaluation |
| Registry Activation Time | Name appears on the registry within two business days of exam completion |
| Renewal Requirements | Complete at least eight hours of paid nursing-related work every 24 months to remain active |
| License by Endorsement | Out-of-state CNAs apply via interstate endorsement with no processing fee and no retesting required |
Certified Nursing Assistants in Minnesota enjoy strong job prospects and competitive pay, especially for an entry-level healthcare role. On average, CNAs in the state earn about $22 per hour, with higher wages often found in metropolitan areas like Minneapolis and St. Paul. In rural regions, wages may be slightly lower but remain stable and competitive. Demand for CNAs remains high due to an aging population and increasing needs in long-term care and home health services. Facilities across the state frequently offer sign-on bonuses, benefits, and flexible schedules to attract qualified staff. Job stability and immediate employment opportunities make CNA certification a practical choice for those seeking a reliable career. With thousands of job openings statewide, Minnesota continues to be a favorable environment for new CNAs entering the workforce and building long-term careers in healthcare.
| Salary & Career Outlook | Minnesota | USA |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Annual CNA Salary | $36,200 | $62,340 |
| Avg Hourly Wage | $17.40 | $29.97 |
| 90th Percentile Salary | >$43,500 | $80,510 |
| Median Salary | $36,200 | $62,340 |
| 10th Percentile Salary | <$29,500 | $47,960 |
| Projected Job Growth (2022–2032) | ~4% | 3% |
| Annual Job Openings | ~4,400 | ~54,000 |
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Century College |
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| Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College |
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| Riverland Community College |
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Starting as a CNA in Minnesota can be a valuable stepping stone to more advanced nursing and healthcare careers. Many individuals use their CNA experience to transition into Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN) programs. Some Minnesota nursing programs even require CNA certification as a prerequisite, valuing the clinical experience and foundational skills it provides. Community and technical colleges often offer bridge programs that build on CNA training, allowing for quicker advancement. Healthcare employers may support further education by offering tuition assistance or flexible work schedules. This support helps CNAs balance job responsibilities while pursuing additional credentials. Other roles such as medication aide, patient care technician, or unit coordinator are also potential pathways. Through continued education and experience, CNAs can progress into higher-paying positions with greater responsibility, contributing to Minnesota’s healthcare system in increasingly impactful ways.
Additional Nursing Programs in Minnesota
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