Hannah Pierce, BSN
June 23, 2025
The healthcare system of Arkansas depends heavily on Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) to deliver fundamental patient care assistance under nursing supervision. The work performed by CNAs plays an essential role in maintaining patient safety while providing comfort and cleanliness standards. As part of their duties CNAs help patients with bathing, dressing needs, eating tasks, and moving around while building close relationships with their patients.
Melbourne, AR - Public 2-Year - ozarka.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Ozarka College offers a 4-month Certified Nursing Assistant program on campus, preparing students for Arkansas state certification with 7 credit hours of intensive training. Supervised by licensed nurses, the curriculum emphasizes patient-focused care, covering critical nursing techniques, communication, and ethical practices. This military-friendly program develops a holistic approach to healthcare, ensuring graduates are ready for diverse medical settings without requiring entrance exams.
Mena, AR - Public 2-Year - uarichmountain.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Certified Nursing Assistant program at University of Arkansas Community College Rich Mountain offers campus-based training that adheres to Arkansas Long Term Care Facility guidelines. Students develop essential skills in patient care techniques, professional communication, and healthcare practices, preparing them to provide safe and compassionate support to elderly and vulnerable individuals. This program emphasizes hands-on learning and the critical role of nursing assistants in medical teams, without requiring entrance exams as it is a certificate-level offering.
Hope, AR - Public 2-Year - uaht.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana offers a Certificate of Proficiency in Nursing Assistant (CNA) program that provides comprehensive training aligned with Arkansas Long Term Care Facility standards. Students develop essential patient care skills, prepare for the CNA licensure exam, and gain hands-on clinical experience. The program includes mandatory CPR certification, health screenings, and possible weekend clinical hours, ensuring graduates are ready for roles in hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare settings.
Bentonville, AR - Public 2-Year - nwacc.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
NorthWest Arkansas Community College offers a state-approved Certified Nursing Assistant and Patient Care Assistant Plus program, focusing on comprehensive healthcare training. Students gain essential skills in safety, infection control, vital signs, and geriatric care, preparing for the state certification exam. This campus-based program includes advanced acute care training, enabling rapid entry into medical careers with practical expertise for immediate job opportunities in various healthcare settings.
Hot Springs, AR - Public 2-Year - np.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
National Park College in Hot Springs, AR, provides a free Certified Nursing Assistant program that can be completed in just 5 weeks, including 17 days of classroom instruction and 2 days of clinical training. This comprehensive program meets state requirements, offers certification assistance, and serves as a pathway to healthcare careers for Arkansas residents aged 18 and older, with no financial barriers.
Students in Arkansas can complete CNA programs through online learning for classroom instruction while in-person clinical training remains mandatory. Hybrid programs provide students with the option to study theory components through online learning while they attend in-person labs and clinicals. The adaptable nature of these programs benefits students who need to work or take care of their families. Traditional in-person programs continue to be accessible for students who want to study in a structured classroom environment. Multiple class time options including evening and weekend shifts help students fit their education into their schedules.
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| University of Arkansas Community College Rich Mountain |
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| Ozarka College |
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| University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana |
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| Eligibility Prerequisites | Completed a DHS-approved CNA (or LPN/RN) program, valid photo ID & SSN, cleared state & federal background check, required immunizations |
|---|---|
| Certifying Board | Arkansas DHS, Division of Provider Services – Nurse Aide Registry |
| Training Program | Minimum of 90 hours total, including at least 16 supervised clinical hours |
| Fees | No state licensing fee, exam vendor fees paid when scheduling |
| Exam | Written or oral competency test plus a five-skill practical evaluation, both within 12 months of program completion |
| Registry Activation | Results posted in the online registry within five calendar days of testing |
| Renewal | Complete eight hours of paid nursing work under RN/LPN supervision every 24 months, renew biennially by mail or online |
| Endorsement | Out-of-state CNAs transfer via a reciprocity form without additional testing |
The average yearly salary for CNAs working in Arkansas amounts to $30,000 which converts to $14-$15 per hour. The wages for nursing assistants show variations depending on geographic location since Little Rock and Fayetteville tend to pay their CNAs more than other areas. Entry-level CNAs start at $12 per hour yet experienced aides and specialized role professionals can reach $18 per hour. The nursing assistant profession provides employees with steady employment positions although the compensation remains at a moderate level. Nursing assistants face ongoing employment opportunities because of steady demand in long-term care facilities and home health environments.
| Salary & Career Outlook | Arkansas | USA |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Annual CNA Salary | $30,870 | $62,340 |
| Avg Hourly Wage | $14.85 | $29.97 |
| 90th Percentile Salary | >$36,500 | $80,510 |
| Median Salary | $30,870 | $62,340 |
| 10th Percentile Salary | <$25,600 | $47,960 |
| Projected Job Growth (2022–2032) | ~4% | 3% |
| Annual Job Openings | ~3,150 | ~54,000 |
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Ozarka College |
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| University of Arkansas Community College Rich Mountain |
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| University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana |
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The CNA certification provides the foundation for future success in healthcare through a long-term career. Many Arkansas CNAs pursue their career advancement by obtaining Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN) credentials. Many nursing programs specify CNA experience as an admission requirement which makes certified aides more competitive applicants. The educational institutions of community colleges and universities maintain programs that assist CNAs in their transition to advanced nursing roles through bridge programs and career ladders. Students can earn credit for their prior experience through these programs which also provide tutoring services and financial aid support. Employers provide educational support to their staff through tuition benefits and work flexibility programs. The knowledge and experience gained through CNA work prove beneficial when applying to LPN and RN programs because they show patient care abilities. The nursing field provides employment possibilities for medical assistants together with phlebotomists and patient care technicians. The additional education and training allow CNAs to earn higher salaries and build their caregiving experience.
Additional Nursing Programs in Arkansas
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