“The best things in life are free,” is the old saying, and that sometimes holds true for career training – if you can find it. In terms of training, your best bet is to find an affordable program or one that offers scholarships, paid training, or employer sponsorships. If you can find a lower-cost program or one that offers one of the forms of aid listed above, you’ll have a better chance to escape your CNA training free of the substantial debt that many students rack up.
These can sometimes be hard to find, but fortunately, we’ve done some research and based on our findings, the best deals you’ll find on local CNA training in Colorado Springs are from:
- Voyager CNA
- Angels of Care
- Nursing & Therapy Services of Colorado
Affordable CNA Programs in Colorado Springs
Voyager CNA
Voyager CNA offers an accelerated online Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program designed for flexibility and affordability. The program consists of 75 total hours, with 43 hours completed online at a self-paced schedule, followed by 16 hours of in-person skills labs and 16 hours of clinical training at an approved site. Students can finish the program in as little as three weeks or take longer as needed. Lab and clinical sessions are available at multiple locations, including Colorado Springs, Fort Collins, Lakewood, and Westminster.
The program costs $599 during the current sale and offers a payment plan option. Students are required to provide their own navy blue scrubs for clinicals and must submit proof of COVID vaccination, CPR certification, and a TB test before beginning clinical training. After completion, students can schedule their state exams for certification, with testing fees paid separately. Voyager CNA’s flexible format and self-paced approach make it a convenient option for those looking to quickly enter the healthcare field.
Angels of Care
Angels of Care Academy offers a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in healthcare. The program meets the competency requirements of the Colorado State Board of Nursing, equipping students with essential skills in patient care, effective communication, and interdisciplinary teamwork. Students will learn fundamental nursing principles, hands-on care techniques, and state-required competencies to prepare for the Colorado State Board of Nursing final exam. With a commitment to quality education, the academy provides instruction in both English and Spanish, ensuring accessibility for a diverse student body.
The program follows a hybrid format, combining online coursework with in-person lab and clinical training in Colorado Springs. Students complete the first two weeks online, followed by two weeks of hands-on skills training at the academy. Tuition includes textbooks, lab fees, CPR certification, a TB skin test, and the state exam fee. Flexible payment plans are available, and students can complete their certification in just four weeks. Angels of Care Academy also offers a Caregiver Program for individuals caring for loved ones with medical needs.
Nursing & Therapy Services of Colorado
Nursing & Therapy Services of Colorado (NTSOC) offers a hybrid Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program designed for individuals looking to start a healthcare career or provide care for a loved one. The four-week program includes two weeks of online coursework followed by two weeks of in-person lab and clinical training. Students gain hands-on experience in a skilled nursing facility under direct supervision, preparing them for the state certification exam.
Tuition is $700, which includes the eTextbook, skills lab training, clinical experience, BLS/CPR certification, and background check. Payment plans are available, allowing students to enroll with a $150 deposit and pay the remaining balance before graduation. NTSOC accepts third-party funding from select organizations to assist with tuition costs. Evening classes are available, and a specialized class is offered for students with COVID-19 vaccine exemptions. New classes start regularly, with enrollment open to students 16 and older.
Earn More: CNA Alternatives
Finding More Affordable CNA Training Near Colorado Springs
One of the most effective strategies is to explore local healthcare facilities such as nursing homes, assisted living centers, and hospitals. Many of these institutions offer CNA training programs that may not be widely advertised. Often, these programs are provided at little to no cost in exchange for a commitment to work at the facility after certification. It’s a win-win situation where the facility gains trained staff, and you receive your CNA certification without the burden of tuition fees.
Another approach is to connect with local workforce centers, such as the Pikes Peak Workforce Center. These organizations often have information on grants and funding opportunities for job training programs, including CNA certification. They may also have partnerships with local healthcare providers who offer sponsored, paid, or occasionally tuition-free training to eligible individuals. Additionally, keep an eye on community colleges or vocational schools in the area, as they sometimes offer scholarships or state-funded programs that cover the cost of CNA training for qualifying students. Reaching out directly to these institutions and asking about available financial aid or sponsored training opportunities can uncover options that aren’t prominently advertised.
Remember, while the training might be low cost there may be other costs involved, like uniforms, textbooks, and examination fees. Always inquire about any additional costs associated with the program to ensure it fits within your budget. Also, ask about any necessary workforce agreements you would need to sign. If you break the agreement, you could be on the hook for the total cost of the classes later on.
Additional CNA Programs:
Browse more CNA program options in the Colorado Springs area. Find the best school for you!