Arapahoe Community College (ACC) provides a part-time Nurse Aide certificate program across three campuses in Colorado—Littleton, Castle Rock, and Lone Tree. This program is specifically designed for individuals seeking to start a career in nursing, allowing them to become a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) after one semester of study.
The course is structured to accommodate working students, offering a blend of theoretical instruction and practical skills necessary for direct patient care in various healthcare settings.
Program Structure and Practical Training
Students enrolled in the ACC Nurse Aide program will learn essential nursing skills, including assisting with daily living activities, using assistive devices, and recognizing the emotional and cultural needs of patients. The program includes 6 credit hours of coursework covering health care skills and clinical experiences, ensuring that students are well-prepared for entry-level positions. Additionally, the curriculum incorporates 30 hours of clinical practice, allowing students to apply their skills in real-world healthcare environments.
Admission Requirements
To enroll in the Nurse Aide Certificate program, prospective students must:
- Register in MyClinicalExchange for clinical placements.
- Complete an application for ACC.
- Undergo a Criminal Background Check and Drug Screen.
- Obtain required vaccinations.
Additional Program Details
The cost for Colorado residents, after applying the College Opportunity Fund stipend, is approximately $1,200. This fee covers tuition and additional expenses such as uniforms, travel, vaccinations, CPR certification, and background checks. While the program does not qualify for federal student aid, it is competitively priced within the Colorado Community College System and provides substantial value for the investment.
ACC’s Nurse Aide program is recognized for its robust curriculum that meets the Colorado OBRA certification requirements and is approved by the State Board of Nursing. Successful graduates are eligible to take the state certification exam, paving the way for further career advancements in healthcare such as Licensed Practical Nurse or Registered Nurse tracks.
For more detailed information or to apply, potential students can contact the respective campus admissions offices or consult the ACC website. This program is ideal for those seeking a quick transition into the nursing field while balancing existing work commitments.
Our Thoughts
Pros: Arapahoe Community College’s part-time, one-semester Nurse Aide certificate program offers flexibility for working individuals, providing a blend of theoretical instruction and practical clinical experience across multiple campuses. The program is competitively priced at approximately $1,200 for Colorado residents after the College Opportunity Fund stipend, and successful completion makes graduates eligible for the state certification exam, facilitating entry into the healthcare field.
Cons: The program does not qualify for federal student aid, which may pose financial challenges for some students. Additionally, admission requirements include a criminal background check, drug screening, and specific vaccinations, which could be restrictive for certain applicants.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | Approximately $1,200 after COF stipend |
| Program Duration | One semester, part-time |
| Class Schedules | Part-time; specific schedules not detailed |
| Website | ACC Nurse Aide Program |
| Locations | Littleton Campus: 5900 S. Santa Fe Drive, Littleton, CO 80120 Sturm Collaboration Campus: 4500 Limelight Ave., Castle Rock, CO 80109 DCSD Legacy Campus: 10035 Peoria Street, Lone Tree, CO 80134 |
| Phone | Littleton Campus: 303.797.4222 Sturm Campus: 303.660.3160 Legacy Campus: 303.734.3853 |
| Littleton Campus: [email protected] Sturm Campus: [email protected] Legacy Campus: [email protected] | |
| Online Classes | No |
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 |