9 Free CNA Training Programs in Wisconsin - Full Tuition Waiver
Advocate Aurora Health Programs Offered:Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Training Program Location:Milwaukee (St. Luke's campus), Oconomowoc (Summit Medical Center), West Allis, and other Aurora Health Care facilities across Wisconsin. Rating:
Advocate Aurora Health offers a highly competitive and comprehensive CNA Training Program designed to equip individuals with the necessary skills to become certified nursing assistants while providing substantial financial support. This program stands out as a premier option for those looking to enter the healthcare field without incurring significant educational debt. Trainees are considered full-time employees from day one, receiving an hourly wage during both classroom instruction and clinical rotations. For instance, recent postings indicate a pay rate of $19.45 per hour during the training period, a significant benefit that allows participants to earn income while they learn. Beyond the hourly wage, trainees are eligible for a full suite of employee benefits, including health and dental insurance, paid time off, and retirement offerings, which are typically available to full-time staff.
The program itself is an intensive, state-approved course, typically lasting around 11 days or 88 hours, including crucial clinical hours that provide hands-on experience in a real healthcare setting. The curriculum is meticulously designed to prepare students for the Wisconsin Certified Nursing Assistant certification exam, covering essential patient care skills, communication techniques, and ethical responsibilities. Upon successful completion of the training and passing the state exam, graduates are guaranteed a position as a CNA within an Advocate Aurora Health facility, often at the location where their training was based, such as Summit Medical Center in Oconomowoc or Aurora West Allis Medical Center. This seamless transition from student to employed professional is a major advantage, eliminating the stress of job searching post-certification. The organization's commitment to its trainees extends to career development, with opportunities for advancement within the large healthcare system. This program is ideal for dedicated individuals who seek a fast-tracked entry into a stable and rewarding healthcare career with immediate financial stability and long-term growth potential. The rigorous application process reflects the high quality and demand for this program, ensuring that only the most qualified and committed candidates are selected to join their team.
UW Health Programs Offered:Nursing Assistant Apprenticeship Program Location:Madison (University Hospital) Rating:
The UW Health Nursing Assistant Apprenticeship Program is an exceptional opportunity for individuals aspiring to become CNAs, offering a fully sponsored pathway into a vital healthcare role. This program is distinguished by its comprehensive support, providing paid training to both current UW Health employees and external applicants. Participants are paid for 40 hours a week during the entire training period, with a competitive starting pay that reflects the value UW Health places on its future nursing assistants. This financial provision means students can focus entirely on their studies and clinical practice without the burden of tuition costs or lost income. The program covers all educational expenses, making it a truly free pathway to certification.
The apprenticeship is an accelerated training program, typically lasting three to four weeks, combining rigorous classroom instruction with extensive clinical practice at University Hospital in Madison. This immersive experience ensures that trainees gain practical, hands-on skills in a dynamic hospital environment, working directly with patients and collaborating with healthcare teams. The curriculum emphasizes patient care tasks, vital sign monitoring, assisting with daily living activities, and effective communication—all crucial skills for a successful CNA. Upon successful completion of the program and placement on the Wisconsin Nurse Aide Registry, graduates are guaranteed an interview for available Nursing Assistant positions within UW Health. This strong commitment to employment ensures a smooth transition into a career. Beyond the initial training, UW Health offers a robust benefits package, including health and dental insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans, along with tuition benefits for continued career advancement. The program also fosters a supportive and inclusive environment, encouraging applications from diverse backgrounds. For those seeking a direct, paid route to a CNA career with a leading academic medical center and significant opportunities for professional growth, UW Health's apprenticeship is an outstanding choice.
Dove Healthcare Programs Offered:Free CNA Class (in collaboration with WisCaregiver Careers Program and Healthcare Workforce Training Institute) Location:Multiple locations across Wisconsin, including Eau Claire, Bloomer, Osseo, Rice Lake, and other skilled nursing facilities. Rating:
Dove Healthcare, in partnership with the WisCaregiver Careers Program and the Healthcare Workforce Training Institute, offers an attractive "Free CNA Class" that provides a clear path to becoming a certified nursing assistant. This program is designed to eliminate financial barriers for aspiring healthcare professionals, making it accessible to a wide range of candidates. A key highlight is that participants are not only provided with free training and state competency exam coverage but are also paid an hourly wage for each hour completed of the 75-hour class. This "earn while you learn" model is a significant advantage, providing immediate financial support to trainees. Additionally, upon successful certification and six months of continuous employment with Dove Healthcare, participants are eligible for a $500 bonus, further incentivizing their commitment.
The training program is typically intensive, allowing individuals to complete the 75-hour CNA class and prepare for the state competency exam in as little as two weeks. The curriculum is comprehensive, covering essential patient care skills, safety protocols, communication techniques, and the responsibilities of a CNA in a skilled nursing facility. Trainees gain hands-on experience and are prepared for the demands of the role. Dove Healthcare operates numerous skilled nursing facilities across Wisconsin, offering diverse work environments and opportunities for graduates. By being hired as a CNA Trainee, individuals secure employment from the outset, ensuring a direct transition into a fulfilling career. The collaboration with WisCaregiver Careers underscores the program's alignment with statewide initiatives to address healthcare workforce needs, providing quality training and guaranteed job placement. This program is an excellent option for individuals seeking a fast, free, and paid entry into the CNA profession, coupled with a clear employment pathway and additional financial incentives.
Aspirus Health Care Programs Offered:CNA Paid Job Training Program Location:Multiple locations across Wisconsin, including Wausau, Rhinelander, Wisconsin Rapids, and Portage. Rating:
Aspirus Health Care offers a robust and highly supportive CNA Paid Job Training Program, designed to cultivate new Certified Nursing Assistants and integrate them into their extensive healthcare system. This program is a significant investment by Aspirus in its workforce, providing aspiring CNAs with a fully funded pathway to certification and guaranteed employment. A key highlight of this program is that Aspirus covers the full cost of tuition, textbooks, and scrubs for all accepted participants. Beyond covering educational expenses, the program also provides a financial stipend to students for their time spent in class, recognizing the dedication and effort required during the training period. This financial support ensures that individuals can focus entirely on their studies and practical training without the burden of tuition fees or loss of income.
Aspirus has strategically partnered with several technical colleges across Wisconsin, including Northcentral Technical College, Mid-State Technical College, Nicolet Technical College, and Madison Area Technical College, to deliver high-quality education. The program typically involves an accelerated format, with some cohorts lasting as little as five weeks, allowing for a swift transition from training to employment. Clinical rotations are completed at various Aspirus facilities, such as Aspirus Wausau Hospital, Aspirus Rhinelander Hospital, Aspirus Riverview Hospital, and Aspirus Divine Savior Hospital, providing diverse hands-on experience in real-world healthcare settings. Upon successful completion of the program and certification exams, participants are guaranteed an offer for a full-time or part-time CNA role within the Aspirus system. This commitment to employment, coupled with comprehensive financial assistance and partnerships with reputable educational institutions, positions the Aspirus CNA Paid Job Training Program as an excellent opportunity for individuals passionate about starting a healthcare career in Wisconsin.
North Shore Health Programs Offered:Free CNA Training (through WisCaregiver Careers Program) Location:Milwaukee, with opportunities across North Shore Health's facilities throughout Wisconsin. Rating:
North Shore Health offers a compelling Free CNA Training program, leveraging its partnership with the WisCaregiver Careers initiative to provide an accessible and financially supportive route into the nursing assistant profession. This program is specifically designed to attract and train individuals who are passionate about patient care by removing the typical financial burdens associated with education. A standout feature of this program is that trainees are paid while they train, allowing them to earn income from the very beginning of their healthcare journey. This "paid to train" model is a significant benefit, ensuring that participants can commit fully to their studies and clinical experience without financial strain. Furthermore, upon successful completion of the training and certification, and after six months of employment as a CNA, participants receive a $500 retention bonus, underscoring North Shore Health's investment in its new hires.
The training itself is comprehensive, preparing individuals for the Wisconsin CNA license and the state competency exam. The curriculum covers fundamental nursing assistant skills, direct patient care, communication, and safety procedures, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for their roles. As part of Wisconsin's largest post-acute care provider, North Shore Health offers a wide array of clinical settings and opportunities for CNAs, from skilled nursing to assisted living and rehabilitation. Trainees benefit from learning from experienced professionals and often receive mentorship, facilitating a smooth transition into their new roles. The program emphasizes the importance of CNAs as essential members of the healthcare team, providing hands-on experience that positively impacts patient well-being. For those seeking a no-cost, paid training program with a clear path to employment and long-term career prospects within a large healthcare network, North Shore Health's CNA training program is an excellent choice, offering both immediate financial benefits and future professional growth.
Morrow Home Community Programs Offered:Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)-In-Training Location:Sparta, WI Rating:
Morrow Home Community in Sparta, Wisconsin, provides a valuable Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)-In-Training program that offers a unique blend of free education and paid learning. This program is designed to cultivate local talent and integrate new CNAs directly into their long-term care facility. A significant advantage of this program is that participants earn money while they are in the training course. This "paid training" aspect alleviates financial pressure, allowing individuals to focus on acquiring critical skills without the need for external employment during their studies. In addition to paying trainees, Morrow Home Community also covers the cost of the state CNA exam, further reducing the financial burden on aspiring CNAs. The program is offered on-site, providing a convenient and immersive learning environment within a real-world healthcare setting.
The training curriculum is comprehensive, covering all the necessary knowledge and practical skills required to pass the Wisconsin CNA license exam. This includes assisting residents with personal hygiene, maintaining a clean and pleasant environment, and meeting individual nursing needs. The program also emphasizes the development of "people skills" and the ability to relate well to others, particularly the elderly, reflecting the compassionate nature of caregiving at Morrow Home. Upon successful completion of the training and certification, graduates are well-positioned to begin their nursing careers directly with Morrow Home Community. The organization offers various benefits to its employees, including a 401k program with a match, internal promotional opportunities, competitive wages with potential for increases, and an Employee Assistance Program. This program is particularly well-suited for individuals in the Sparta area who are looking for a direct, supported entry into the healthcare field, with the added benefit of earning income and gaining college credits during their training. The limited class size suggests a personalized learning experience, ensuring that each student receives adequate attention and support.
Gundersen Health System Programs Offered:Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Training Program Location:La Crosse, WI Rating:
Gundersen Health System offers a highly attractive Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Training Program that provides a robust pathway into the healthcare profession with significant financial advantages. This program is designed to be entirely free for participants, covering all education costs associated with becoming a CNA. Beyond tuition, Gundersen Health System distinguishes itself by offering paid on-the-job training, meaning that individuals earn a competitive wage while they are learning and gaining practical experience. This "earn while you learn" model is a substantial benefit, enabling trainees to maintain financial stability throughout their educational journey. Upon successful completion of the program and passing the Nursing Assistant Registry Exam, graduates are guaranteed a CNA job within Gundersen Health System, ensuring a seamless transition into a rewarding career.
The program typically spans six weeks, providing an intensive yet comprehensive learning experience. It combines classroom instruction at a local educational provider in La Crosse with hands-on clinical training at a Gundersen site. Under the supervision of experienced Registered Nurse instructors, trainees develop essential skills in direct patient care, assisting with daily tasks, and monitoring patient needs. The curriculum is tailored to prepare students for the demands of a hospital setting, aligning with Gundersen's commitment to providing high-quality patient care. Participants are typically expected to work at least 20 hours a week as a CNA during their enrollment, integrating their learning with practical application. In addition to the paid training and job guarantee, Gundersen Health System provides a comprehensive benefits package to its employees, including health benefits and opportunities for career advancement within their integrated health system. This program is an excellent choice for individuals in the La Crosse area seeking a fully supported, paid entry into the CNA role, with the security of immediate employment and long-term career prospects within a reputable healthcare organization.
The Lutheran Home Programs Offered:C.N.A. Training Location:Wauwatosa, WI Rating:
The Lutheran Home in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, provides a comprehensive C.N.A. Training program designed to equip individuals with the necessary skills to become Certified Nursing Assistants in as few as six weeks. This program offers a flexible learning format, combining online instruction with essential classroom and laboratory components, culminating in a crucial clinical practicum on a skilled nursing unit. This blended learning approach allows students to manage their studies efficiently while gaining practical, hands-on experience in a real healthcare environment. The program is structured to prepare students thoroughly for the state certification exams, which are required upon successful completion of the course.
A key aspect of The Lutheran Home's program that makes it an attractive option is its financial model. While there is an upfront course cost of $475, this amount could be entirely reimbursed, effectively making the training free for individuals who are offered and accept a C.N.A. position at The Lutheran Home or Harwood Place (LHHP) upon graduation. This reimbursement incentive significantly reduces the financial barrier to entry, making a career in healthcare more accessible. Furthermore, the program highlights the availability of retention bonuses, encouraging long-term commitment and rewarding dedicated employees. This financial support, coupled with the opportunity for direct employment within their facilities, provides a clear and supportive pathway for aspiring CNAs.
The training schedule is designed with flexibility in mind, offering multiple cohorts throughout the year. For instance, planned sessions include a July 2025 online class beginning on the 11th, with check-ins on the 21st and 28th, and a clinical week from August 4th to 8th. Similarly, an October 2025 session starts online on the 17th, with check-ins on the 27th and November 3rd, and a clinical week from November 10th to 14th. This structured yet flexible approach caters to various schedules, making it feasible for a broader range of applicants. The Lutheran Home is committed to serving the local community, including Wauwatosa, Brookfield, Elm Grove, and Milwaukee, by fostering new healthcare talent. For those seeking a supportive environment with a clear path to employment and financial assistance, The Lutheran Home's C.N.A. Training program presents a valuable opportunity to embark on a meaningful career in nursing.
Trinity Senior Services, through its Milwaukee Catholic Home facility, offers a comprehensive Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) Training Program in close coordination with the WisCaregiver Careers initiative. This program is specifically designed for individuals passionate about caring for others and ready to embark on a meaningful and in-demand healthcare career, particularly within long-term care settings. The collaboration with WisCaregiver Careers is a significant advantage, as it typically implies a commitment to providing training at little to no cost, often with additional financial incentives for participants.
The program at Milwaukee Catholic Home is structured to provide numerous benefits that align with the needs and goals of aspiring healthcare professionals. These benefits include job stability within a reputable organization, flexibility in work arrangements post-certification, and the inherent reward of providing essential care to residents. Furthermore, the program serves as an excellent stepping stone for those interested in pursuing further education in healthcare, offering a foundational entry point into various other healthcare careers. The program acknowledges the high demand and incredible interest it garners, leading to an approximate wait time of three to six months for interviews and program entry. This popularity underscores the value and effectiveness of the training provided.
For those interested in enrolling, the process involves registering with WisCaregiver Careers, which often provides initial instructions and resources. Subsequently, applicants must complete and submit the Milwaukee Catholic Home Nurse Aide Training Program application. A key financial aspect is the availability of a scholarship option for those interested in employment with Trinity Senior Services, which can cover the cost of the training. While there is also an option for private payment, the scholarship pathway makes the program highly accessible. Successful applicants who opt for the scholarship and express interest in employment will be invited for an in-person interview, followed by notification of enrollment within a few weeks. The program prides itself on fostering a supportive and empowering environment, as evidenced by testimonials from past participants who highlight the positive impact of the teachers and coordinators. Located in Milwaukee, the program contributes to the local community by developing skilled CNAs ready to provide compassionate care.
