Contact Us

Iowa Valley Business and Community Solutions
 IVBCSInfo@iavalley.edu
  641-752-4645

Healthcare facilities across central Iowa need CNAs now — hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living communities are consistently hiring. This training gets you state-certified in a matter of weeks, not years, through Iowa's standard 75-hour program: classroom instruction, hands-on skills labs, and supervised clinical experience at a local care facility.

What the training includes:

  • Classroom instruction in patient care fundamentals, infection control, and safety
  • Hands-on skills labs practicing real caregiving tasks
  • Supervised clinical hours at a partner care facility, working directly with residents under nursing supervision
  • Preparation for Iowa's state competency exam (written and skills)

Requirements to enroll:

  • At least 16 years old
  • Criminal background check
  • Physical exam and required immunizations/TB testing before clinical rotation begins
  • No prior healthcare experience necessary

What happens after you complete CNA training?

Once you pass both the written and skills portions of the state competency exam, your name and scores go to Iowa's Direct Care Worker Registry, and you're certified to work as a CNA in Iowa — no renewal fees, no expiration, as long as you stay active in the field. Many CNAs use the role as a first step toward further healthcare credentials, including LPN or RN programs.
 

Who is this is for?

Anyone ready to start working in healthcare quickly — whether it's a first career, a career change, or a step toward nursing school. No prior experience or coursework is required to begin.
 

Common questions

How long does CNA training take?
Iowa's state-approved course is a minimum of 75 hours, typically completed in a few weeks depending on the section schedule. Contact BCS for current course dates and length.
 
Do I need experience to start?
No. This training is built for complete beginners as well as those with some caregiving background.
 
Where do clinical hours happen?
Clinical rotations take place at a partner care facility under the supervision of a licensed nurse — you won't need to arrange this yourself.
 
Is this the same as becoming a Registered Nurse?
No — CNA certification is a separate, shorter, non-credit credential. If you're interested in the full Nursing degree instead, [link to Nursing program page].
 
What does it cost?
Course fees vary by section — contact BCS for current pricing and available funding or scholarship options.

Connect with us

Email Us

Learn more about funding

View Funding Options

Contact Us

Iowa Valley Business and Community Solutions
 IVBCSInfo@iavalley.edu
  641-752-4645