Located just Southeast of the Rocky Mountain Arsenal, Vista Academy offers a high quality CNA program as part of its Health Science Technology Education.
This program is specially designed for high school students with an interest in healthcare careers. The curriculum is structured over three trimesters, utilizing computers for e-learning, engaging students in class discussions, and offering practical hands-on skills development through videos, demonstrations, and field trips to medical facilities.
Program Structure and Curriculum
The CNA program is divided into three key trimesters:
- Trimester 1 focuses on the history of healthcare, legal and ethical responsibilities, medical terminology, infection control, and communication skills.
- Trimester 2 delves into human anatomy and physiology, growth and development, medical mathematics, wellness, nutrition, and patient communication.
- Trimester 3 is heavily practical, with students learning direct CNA skills, CPR certification, emergency care, and job-seeking skills.
Admission Requirements
High school students eligible for the program can enroll for free, making this an accessible entry point for those interested in the healthcare field. For more specific admission requirements or to begin the enrollment process, students can contact the CTE Pathway Director, Erik Andersen.
Learning Outcomes and Opportunities
Students can expect a rich, interactive learning experience with opportunities to work alongside experienced CNAs and learn vital signs measurement, CPR, and more. They will also engage in field trips and gain practical experience, which is crucial for understanding patient care dynamics. The program aims not only to prepare students for immediate healthcare roles but also sets a foundational knowledge base for advanced health services occupations.
Career Paths and Certifications
Upon completing the program, students earn a CNA certification and have a clear pathway to various careers in healthcare, such as nursing assistants, with starting salaries around $28,600, and opportunities to advance towards higher-paying roles like registered nurses or even medical doctors. Further, the program’s connection with Emily Griffith Technical College allows for concurrent enrollment, which can lead to additional qualifications and certifications.
Contact Information
For further inquiries, students can connect with Vista Academy’s school counselors, Fumnanya Camara or Jose Hernandez, or visit the school’s detailed academics page for more information on the curriculum and other career opportunities provided by the MedConnect program.
This program offers a blend of theoretical and practical education tailored to high school students aspiring to begin a career in healthcare, providing them with the skills and certifications necessary for entry-level positions and beyond.
Our Thoughts
Pros: The Vista Academy CNA program is free for eligible high school students, complete with field trips and certifications that pave the way for immediate employment and further education in the healthcare sector.
Cons: The program is specifically designed only for high school students, and detailed class schedules are not provided, which could affect students’ ability to plan around other commitments.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free for eligible High School students |
| Program Duration | Three trimesters |
| Class Schedules | Detailed schedules not provided; involves e-learning and hands-on skills |
| Website | Vista Academy CNA Program |
| Location | 4800 Telluride St Bldg #6, Denver, Colorado, 80249 |
| Phone | (720) 423-7650 |
| Online Classes | Yes, includes e-learning components |
Other Denver CNA Programs
Vista Academy
Vista Academy in Denver offers a free CNA program for high school students. The curriculum includes e-learning and hands-on training over three trimesters.
The program prepares students for healthcare careers, providing skills like CPR and vital sign monitoring. Field trips and practical experiences enrich learning.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | Free for eligible High School students |
| Duration | Three trimesters |
| Online Classes? | Yes |
| Location | 4800 Telluride St Bldg #6, Denver, Colorado, 80249 |
| Phone | (720) 423-7650 |
Community College of Aurora
The Community College of Aurora offers a Nurse Aide Certificate, teaching essential skills for nurse assistants. It includes clinical experiences and lab work, preparing students for state certification.
This program does not qualify for financial aid and covers various basic and emergency care skills. Students gain hands-on experience necessary for the healthcare field.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | Not eligible for financial aid |
| Duration | Not specified |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Location | Centretech Campus: 16000 E. CentreTech Pkwy, Aurora, CO 80011 Lowry Campus: 710 Alton Way, Denver, CO 80230 |
| Phone | (303) 340-4700 |
Emily Griffith Technical College
Emily Griffith Technical College offers a Nurse Assisting program in Denver, priced at $1,026. This three-month, part-time course includes hands-on clinical training.
The program prepares students for state certification as nurse assistants, offering evening and daytime classes. It is not available online but features varied clinical hours.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | $1,026, may be free with specific programs |
| Duration | 3 months, part-time |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Location | 1860 Lincoln St, Denver, Colorado 80203 |
| Phone | (720) 423-4700 |
CEC Early College
CEC Early College in Denver offers a free Nurse Assistant program for high school juniors and seniors. The course includes medical basics and skills for healthcare certifications.
The program is conducted over two semesters with no online classes. It prepares students through hands-on and theoretical training in medical careers.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | Free |
| Duration | Two semesters |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Location | 2650 Eliot St, Denver, Colorado 80211 |
| Phone | (720) 423-6600 |
Pima Medical Institute
Pima Medical Institute in Denver offers a six-week Nursing Assistant program. It combines clinical skills with essential soft skills training on campus.
Graduates are prepped for the Certified Nursing Assistant exam. The program does not offer online classes but provides extensive real-world experience.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | Contact institute for details |
| Duration | 6 weeks |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Location | 7475 Dakin St #335, Denver, CO 80221 |
| Phone | (800) 477-7462 |
Denver Hospice
The Denver Hospice offers a two-week CNA training program for $1,260. It prepares students for healthcare roles and state certification exams.
The course includes practical and theoretical training, with no online options. Graduates may secure immediate employment through Denver Hospice.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | $1,260 |
| Duration | 2 weeks |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Location | 8289 E Lowry Blvd, Denver, CO 80230 |
| Phone | 303-329-7400 |
Intermountain Healthcare Saint Joseph Hospital
Intermountain Healthcare Saint Joseph Hospital offers a free two-week CNA training program in Denver. Trainees receive $16 per hour while learning essential patient care skills.
The program includes practical training but does not offer online classes. Graduates are prepared for immediate healthcare roles and further career development opportunities.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | Free |
| Duration | 2 weeks |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Location | 1375 E 19th Ave, Denver, CO 80218 |
| Phone | (303) 812-2000 |
Community College of Denver
The Community College of Denver offers a seven-week Nurse Aide Certificate program. It prepares students for the Colorado Nurse Aide Certification Exam.
Classes are available both day and evening, catering to various schedules. The program does not provide online classes but focuses on practical and theoretical training.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | Approximately $1,413.42 |
| Duration | 7 weeks |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Location | Lowry Campus, 1070 Alton Way, Denver, CO 80230 |
| Phone | (303) 365-8300 |
Arapahoe Community College
Arapahoe Community College offers a part-time Nurse Aide certificate that can be completed in one semester. The program is tailored for those looking to quickly enter the nursing field.
The training includes hands-on clinical practice and prepares students for the Colorado Nurse Aide Certification Exam. Classes are held in-person at three campus locations.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | Approximately $1,200 after COF stipend |
| Duration | One semester, part-time |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Locations | Littleton, Castle Rock, and Lone Tree campuses |
| Phone | 303-797-4222 303-660-3160 303-734-3853 |
CrossPurpose
CrossPurpose offers a free six-month CNA training program in Denver, focused on developing essential nursing skills and providing hands-on clinical experience.
The program equips students for various healthcare roles, preparing them for the state CNA exam without the burden of tuition fees. No online classes are available; training is conducted in person.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | Free |
| Duration | 6 months |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Location | NE Denver: 3050 Richard Allen Ct., Denver, CO 80205 South Metro: 3855 S Broadway, Englewood, CO 80113 North Metro: 8330 W 80th Ave Suite 8, Arvada, CO 80005 |
| Phone | (720) 724-9544 |
South Denver School of Nursing Arts
The South Denver School of Nursing Arts offers a four-week CNA program that blends online learning with crucial in-person clinical training. The course prepares students for immediate healthcare roles.
Students engage in intensive online and hands-on sessions, focusing on essential nursing skills. The program is tailored for quick, effective learning and immediate application in professional settings.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | Standard: $1,800; High School: $1,600 |
| Duration | 4 weeks |
| Online Classes? | Yes, with required in-person components |
| Location | 7853 E. Arapahoe Court, Suite 3300, Centennial, CO 80112 |
| Phone | (303) 625-6749 |