Arkansas has one of the highest populations of baby boomers, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. As the baby boomers age in place, there is a higher demand for healthcare needs. As a result, the state of Arkansas has a high demand for healthcare professionals, including Certified Nurse Aides. The state of Arkansas allows those seeking CNA certification to work for a total of 120 days. However, once the 120 days expire, they are not renewable. The Department of Health makes exceptions for those who are foreign-trained or have received military CNA classes.
Online CNA Classes in Arkansas
Nursing Assistant Training Solutions
Nursing Assistant Training Solutions offers a hybrid CNA training program in Arkansas, providing students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the healthcare field. The program includes online classroom and in-person lab instruction totaling 96 hours, along with 16 hours of clinical experience. Successful completion of the course enables students to take the state competency written/skills examination for CNA certification. Upcoming classes will take place at Des Arc Nursing & Rehab in Des Arc, Arkansas. The institute sponsors accepted students, covering their tuition and providing payment during the course. Interested applicants can find more details on the institute’s website or contact them directly through phone or email.
Arkansas CNA Certification Requirements
Listed below are the requirements in order to qualify for admissions for a CNA in Arkansas. These include:
- Ability to read and write
- High school diploma may be required
- Be at least 18 years old
- Live scan method for a criminal background check
- Physical exam
- Negative TB test
- Up-to-date immunization
Arkansas CNA Classes & Testing Costs
The state of Arkansas requires a program that will take place in the classroom, lab, and include an internship in a long-term care facility. The course must begin with 16 hours of lectures and informational demonstrations to help in preparing the students for the next step. On-site classes is required for 16 hours of demonstration in a supervised environment. The following 58 hours will include further lectures and labs to help in developing skills. Once the program is completed, you will receive a certificate that you will need in order to schedule your state competency exam.
Certification costs can vary due to the type of program and location. Classes in Arkansas can have an average cost of $800. Some nursing homes may offer the CNA program with tuition assistance, or potentially at no cost if you commit to working with them upon completion. For other options that offer low-cost classes, click on this link.
CNA Classes & Nurse Aide Courses in Arkansas
Listed below are some further options for programs in a city in Arkansas near you. The link will help to provide contact information should you have any further questions.
CNA Programs in Little Rock, AR
Little Rock Job Corps Center. The Job Corps offers excellent flexibility, providing good work and life balance through the program. The course is offered over an 18 month period with tuition assistance, and in some cases, at no cost.
Medlinc. Medlinc offers flexible class schedules with a day program and also a night program. The program also invites you to tour the campus and speak with a program counselor.
Learn more about CNA classes in Little Rock.
CNA Programs in Fort Smith, AR
PRN Medical Services. This program is 90 hours, Monday through Friday, from 8am-4pm over a four week period. The cost is $480 for tuition, and there may be additional costs for uniforms and other tools needed for the program. The facility does offer scholarships and tuition assistance. PRN Medical Services also can help with placement assistance upon graduation.
The University of AR at Fort Smith. The University offers a CNA program that is for one year. Upon graduation, students do receive credits, which is beneficial if you decide to further your education in the healthcare field.
Additional Arkansas CNA resources
For further information during your program or after when you are working in the field, please see below for the Arkansas Nurse Aide Registry
Arkansas Nurse Aide Registry
To contact the Arkansas Nurse Aide Registry, use the information below:
Arkansas Nurse Aide Registry
AR Department of Human Services
Office of Long-term Care
PO Box 8059, Slot S405
Little Rock, AR 72203-8059
Automated Line: 501-682-8484
Direct Line: 501-682-1807
Fax: 501-682-8551
Out of State CNAs
The applications for transfer CNA licenses are processed through the Office of Long-Term Care. See below for further information when requesting to transfer:
- Get approval for nurse aide testing by contacting the Office of Long-Term Care.
- Prepare copies of your transcript, certificate and other identification
- You will receive an approval letter once determined you can continue on in the process.
- You may be required to take an exam. Fill out the application for testing with the Prometric site. Be sure to have your approval letter handy as you will need this when scheduling the exam.
CNA License Renewal in Arkansas
The renewal process in Arkansas is budget-friendly in that there is no fee. In order to renew, you must re-certify every two years. The form to renew can be found online. Eight consecutive hours are required for paid employment within the last two years. A pay stub will work as acceptable proof. Your employer will need to complete the employment section of the form.
How much does a CNA make in Arkansas?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a CNA in Arkansas can make, on average, $29,970 a year or $14.41 per hour. The salary can be higher or lower depending on the location of the job and also what type of work the CNA will be doing.