Thomas Reed, RN
June 23, 2025
The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training programs equip students to deliver fundamental patient care while assisting nursing professionals in healthcare facilities. The educational programs in Idaho serve as vital components for developing nursing staff capabilities since Idaho’s elderly population requires professional care providers. CNA professionals work as primary caregivers who assist nursing staff by caring for patients through bathing assistance and mealtime support as well as vital sign measurements and patient condition monitoring.
Nampa, ID - Public 2-Year - cwi.edu
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The College of Western Idaho's Certified Nursing Assistant Preparation program is a 12-week hybrid course combining online learning with in-person skills training. It focuses on patient care, basic nursing techniques, and infection control, preparing students for the CNA certification exam. With a cost of $945 and open to individuals aged 16 and older, this program offers an affordable and accessible entry into healthcare careers, emphasizing hands-on experience at the Nampa Campus.
People often wonder if CNA training exists as an online program throughout Idaho. The complete hands-on nature of the job makes it impossible to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) solely through online studies. Several Idaho programs provide hybrid training by teaching classroom content through online modules or virtual classes while students perform skills labs and clinical rotations in person. Students finish their quizzes, lectures, and readings online while participating in scheduled in-person sessions to practice patient care skills on mannequins and under instructor supervision with real patients. According to Idaho state regulations students can combine virtual classes with required hands-on training sessions.
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| College of Western Idaho |
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| Eligibility Prerequisites | Complete an Idaho-approved 120-hour CNA program (or submit a first-semester accredited nursing transcript to challenge the exam) and file the registry application |
|---|---|
| Certifying Board | Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, Certified Nurse Assistant Registry |
| Training Program | 120 total hours, 80 hours of classroom instruction and 40 hours of supervised clinical practice |
| Fees | No state or registry fees, exam and course costs vary by provider |
| Certification Exam | Pass a five-skill practical test within six months of training and a written/oral exam within one year, up to three attempts per exam |
| Registry Activation | Registry updated upon passing both exams, certification card mailed within 7–10 business days |
| Renewal Requirements | Work at least eight hours as a paid CNA or in related nursing services every 24 months and submit a renewal form, no renewal fee |
| Endorsement | Out-of-state CNAs transfer via reciprocity by proving approved training and active certification, no retesting required |
CNA salaries in Idaho usually range between $15 to $17 per hour which translates to annual earnings between $30,000 and $35,000. CNA wages for new workers begin at $12–$13 per hour in small towns yet experienced staff members and hospital workers can reach the higher end of $15 to $17 per hour. The wage levels in Boise and other urban areas exceed those in rural areas because of higher local requirements and varying cost of living expenses. The employment prospects for nursing assistants remain excellent even though their compensation remains moderate. Every region throughout Idaho requires CNAs because nursing homes alongside hospitals, assisted living centers, and home health agencies are constantly seeking qualified candidates.
| Salary & Career Outlook | Idaho | USA |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Annual CNA Salary | $32,950 | $62,340 |
| Avg Hourly Wage | $15.83 | $29.97 |
| 90th Percentile Salary | >$38,150 | $80,510 |
| Median Salary | $32,950 | $62,340 |
| 10th Percentile Salary | <$27,300 | $47,960 |
| Projected Job Growth (2022–2032) | ~4% | 3% |
| Annual Job Openings | ~760 | ~54,000 |
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| College of Western Idaho |
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Nursing assistant work provides entry-level healthcare professionals with opportunities to move up their careers. The majority of Idaho nursing assistants use their experience to seek LPN or RN licensure after completing their education. The state’s nursing schools use CNA certification as an admission requirement because they value the clinical competencies and patient care experience gained through CNA programs. A CNA can progress to become an LPN by completing an additional year of education before pursuing RN studies to achieve nursing degree status. Daily CNA work provides valuable training which develops essential communication skills, time management abilities, and hands-on care competency that benefits future nursing career advancement. Most Idaho employers promote their CNAs to advance their careers.
Additional Nursing Programs in Idaho
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