CNA Courses with Paid Internships in 2025
Career Prospects for Nursing Assistants (CNAs)
From 2014 to 2024, the number of employed nursing assistants (CNAs) increased by nearly 23%, far higher than the average growth rate for all occupations. With the aging population and the rise in medical care demand, the need for CNAs will continue to grow. CNAs play a vital role in hospitals, nursing homes, and various healthcare settings. As direct care services expand, the career prospects for CNAs will broaden. Moreover, the salary level is rising. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary of CNAs is about $35,000, with experienced CNAs earning up to $45,000 in some areas. This makes CNA a popular, high-paying career with stable development.
Case Study:
Jessica, a CNA graduate from Bryant & Stratton College, entered the workforce with a starting salary of $38,000 at a local nursing home. After two years of experience, she was promoted to a supervisory role, earning over $45,000 annually. Her career was launched thanks to the solid training and paid internship opportunities provided by her program.
Why Choose Online CNA Courses?
•Low Entry Requirements: Becoming a CNA is accessible—no college degree is required, only a certificate. You can complete the necessary training and pass the certification exam to start your career. Compared to other fields, CNA offers rapid employment opportunities.
•Paid Internships: Many CNA programs partner with medical institutions like hospitals and nursing homes to offer paid internships. These internships provide practical experience and income while training, helping students develop skills and connect with potential employers. Chamberlain University, for example, partners with healthcare providers to offer paid internships, helping students gain real-world experience.
•Employment Support: CNA programs provide robust employment support, including partnerships with medical institutions for internships and job opportunities, career counseling, flexible financial plans, and alumni networks. This support ensures graduates are well-equipped to enter the nursing field and advance in their careers.
Case Study:
Liam, a Chamberlain University student, completed his CNA program and paid internship at a hospital. His internship not only allowed him to hone his skills but also helped him secure a full-time position as a CNA at the same hospital after graduation. The hospital’s human resources team was impressed with his performance during the internship and hired him immediately.
What You Can Learn in CNA Training
•Basic Nursing Knowledge: Learn nursing duties, professional ethics, and medical terminology.
•Patient Care Skills: Master skills like measuring vital signs and assisting with daily activities.
•Basic Medicine and First Aid Skills: Gain knowledge of first aid procedures and infection control measures.
•Communication and Patient Care: Improve your communication skills with patients and their families.
•Nursing for Specific Populations: Learn how to care for the elderly, disabled, and terminally ill patients.
Case Study:
Maya, a graduate from Pima Medical Institute, found that the specific skills she gained, such as elder care and communication, made her stand out in her interviews. Her internship at a senior care facility gave her invaluable experience working with elderly patients, and she was offered a permanent position after completing her certification.
How to Apply for CNA Training Courses
•Community Colleges: Many local community colleges offer CNA courses. Visit their websites for more information. For example, City College of San Francisco and Los Angeles City College provide CNA training with flexible schedules.
•Vocational Training Schools: Schools like Pima Medical Institute and Bryant & Stratton College focus on hands-on training and offer high-quality CNA programs.
•American Red Cross: The American Red Cross offers CNA training through short courses, allowing you to get certified quickly.
•Government Websites: State and federal websites provide resources to support CNA training and certification, including program details and contact information for agencies.
Case Study:
Tom, who chose to attend a vocational training school for his CNA certification, was able to complete his program in six months and secure an internship at a hospital through the school’s partnership. His quick training allowed him to enter the job market earlier than many of his peers.
Start Your Nursing Career Today
If you're looking for a short-term, low-barrier training program to quickly enter the job market and change your life, CNA courses with paid internships are an excellent option. With practical experience and direct pathways to employment, you’ll be set for a rewarding career in healthcare.
Case Study:
After completing a paid internship through her CNA program at Pima Medical Institute, Emily started working as a CNA in a hospital. She’s now been employed for over a year and plans to continue her education to become a registered nurse (RN), using her CNA experience as a stepping stone to further her career in nursing.
Conclusion
CNA courses with paid internships offer a practical and accessible route to a stable, well-paying career in healthcare. By choosing the right program that offers internship opportunities, employment support, and specialized training, you can quickly gain experience and enter the workforce with confidence.
For more information, please see: CNA Courses with Paid Internships