CNA Career in 2020
Earning a rewarding salary is one of the benefits of enrolling in online Certified Nurse Assistant classes. Most professionals can look forward to wages that run from $20,000 to $31,000 per year. This is an entry level salary, and experienced professionals can earn even more. The average salary for a CNA with five to nine years of experience is $34,000 per year. Geographical locations also affect salaries, and large metro areas generally pay quite a bit more. New York City professionals can earn as much as $51,000 per year. Chicago, Los Angeles and Houston are other top-paying cities, and CNAs can expect to make close to $40,000 in these cities. Wages do not include the benefits that this profession offers. Most licensed CNAs are employed by large companies that have comprehensive health insurance. Paid vacation and sick time are other benefits that make actual wages higher.
Landing a job as a Certified Nurse Assistant is a great way to ensure job security. Today’s economy changes overnight, and many people are losing jobs due to outsourcing. The healthcare industry is stable and is sure to require more professionals as baby boomers retire. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that demand will increase by nearly 20 percent over the next decade. This should push wages higher and ensure that licensed professionals have plenty of career opportunities.
Education
Students are sure to benefit when they invest in a Certified Nurse Assistant education. There are plenty of opportunities, and classes are offered at traditional and online universities. Classes will cover the basics of anatomy and modern health care. Students can complete their college studies in as little as three months and learn the following career skills.
- First aid techniques
- Ambulatory techniques
- Vital signs
- Nursing ethics and terminology
Finding an accredited CNA course is essential, and the Internet makes it easy for students to choose from a number of colleges. Many universities offer financing options, and students should be sure to fill out the Federal Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible. The FAFSA is used by universities to determine funding, and most students can rely on loans or grants to pay for tuition, books and living expenses.
School Qualifications
Applying to schools is incredibly easy with Internet technology, but it is essential to have documents in order. Schools routinely require that students meet several different requirements. Most CNA classes mandate that applicants meet the following prerequisites. -Have a high school diploma or GED -Basic English skills -No criminal record
Length of Courses
CNA courses are perfect for busy adults, and most classes can be finished in spare time. The actual length of a program depends on the amount of time that is devoted to studies. Some programs can be finished in as little as three months. Not all students will finish this fast, but it is possible. Online CNA certification programs may take up to a year to complete. Career advancement is another benefit of CNA classes. Professionals can further their education to earn more money. Earning a PhD. degree requires only a few more years of study after a student graduates from an online CNA program.
Convenient Classes
Online colleges are more convenient than ever. They are perfect for busy adults who already have a full time job. Classes can be taken at any time of the day or night, and flexible scheduling works around work hours. Institutions are constantly expanding their programs, and most offer a number of excellent financing options. The FAFSA should be remitted as soon as possible to ensure financing is available.
Advantages of online CNA classes
- No residency restrictions
- Access to professor through email and live chat
- Training at convenient times
- No age limit
- Excellent career opportunities
Clinical Training Credits
In addition to online classes, most students will have to spend time at a local hospital or health care facility. This provides valuable practical experience and is a licensing requirement. The best thing about these internships is that they are a valuable chance to network in the healthcare field.
Theory Credit Hours
CNA classes offer the theoretical knowledge that most states test for prior to license. There is a minimum requirement in place for most states, and it is essential to enroll in classes at an accredited institution.