Are you looking for CNA classes near Des Moines? Our state-approved CNA training program prepares students with hands-on skills, clinical experience, and state exam preparation required for CNA certification.
Becoming a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) is a straightforward process, but choosing the right training program can make all the difference.
CNA classes should not only meet Iowa’s certification requirements but also prepare you for state competency testing.
Quality training includes a balance of classroom instruction, hands-on skills practice, and supervised clinical experience so students feel confident working with patients and residents. A well-structured program also provides guidance to the certification process by educating students understand what to expect.
To work as a CNA, you must first complete a state-approved CNA training program and then pass the two (2) Iowa CNA competency exams (written and skills competency). This process ensures you’re prepared to safely care for residents and patients in long-term care and other healthcare facilities.
Choose from our 2-Week Day FAST Track | 5-Week Evening Class with (3) Saturdays
75-hour Certified Nurse Aide | Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing | Program Approval #T9831
Hands-on learning is the premium standard of CNA training. Learning how to take a blood pressure, ambulate a patient, and save a life aren’t mastered watching a video at home – these skills come from in-person training and practice!
The time it takes to become a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) depends on the training schedule you choose, but most students are able to complete CNA certification in a relatively short period of time compared to other healthcare careers.
In Iowa, CNA training programs must meet state requirements for classroom instruction, hands-on skills training, and clinical experience. Once those hours are completed, students are eligible to take the Iowa CNA state competency examinations. From start to certification, many students are able to finish CNA training and competency testing within 3 to 6 weeks.
Our CNA classes in Waukee are designed to offer flexible scheduling options to fit different lifestyles. Students can choose an accelerated daytime format, known as our 2-week FAST Track program or an evening option, allowing them to complete training efficiently while balancing work, family, or other responsibilities.
Inside our CNA class, students learn through hands-on instruction designed to reflect real healthcare environments. Training takes place in a structured classroom and lab setting where students can practice skills, ask questions, and build confidence before entering clinical settings.
We serve students from across the greater Des Moines area, including West Des Moines, Clive, Urbandale, and surrounding communities. Many students choose our location because it allows them to complete training close to home while still receiving personalized, instructor-led training.
1. Taking and recording vital signs
2. Infection control and patient safety
3. Assisting with mobility and transfers
4. Activities of daily living
5. Communication with residents and healthcare teams
6. The Heimlich Maneuver
7. and so much more!!
Tuition for our Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) program is $865. This includes instruction, textbook, student workbook, and lab supplies.
If you’re comparing CNA programs and wondering about the ‘all in’ cost of the course, we believe pricing should be clear and upfront. Our program is designed to help students complete their training efficiently, without paying for unnecessary extras or extended semesters and time.
What’s included in tuition:
Additional costs to plan for:
I" took the 75-hour CNA class, and it was one of the best experiences ever - from the instructor to the material and even the clinicals were a rewarding experience. I would give this a 10-star rating if I could! The confidence I felt going into my state tests were unmatched. 10/10!"
"I had an amazing experience completing my CNA course at SIG Health. The instructors were great and very supportive. I learned a lot and felt very prepared for clinicals. Highly recommend SIG Health!"
"I took my CNA class through Signature and had a very positive experience! The staff is super helpful and supportive & the curriculum is easy to follow and keep up with. My instructor was Bethany and I really enjoyed her teaching style, she was great! I definitely recommend SIG Health if you're looking to take the CNA course!"
"I loved their CNA class. It was very informative, and they offer quick courses, 2-weeks. My teacher, Bethany is fabulous and explains everything very well. She answers alllll your questions! I will be coming back from my class, CMA!"
Check out our 2026 Academic Calendar below!
Seats fill up fast – especially for our most popular classes so don’t wait! Secure your spot today and we’ll follow up with everything you need to take the next step!
2-week FAST Track
Mon – Fri
8:00a – 4:30p class
6:00a – 2:30p clinical
CLOSED *Class FULL*
5-week Evening & Sat
T/W/TH/S
5:30p – 9:30p class
6:00a – 2:30p clinical
Filling quickly
2-week FAST Track
Mon – Fri
8:00a – 4:30p class
6:00a – 2:30p clinical
OPEN
2-week FAST Track
Mon – Fri
8:00a – 4:30p class
6:00a – 2:30p clinical
OPEN
| Structure: | Start and End Dates: | Schedule: | Time: | Availability: | Enroll: |
| 5-week Evening & Sat | Sept 15 – Oct 15, 2026 | T/W/TH/S | 5:30p-9:30p & 6a-2:30p (Sat) | OPEN | Enroll Now |
| 2-week FAST Track | October 12 – 23, 2026 | Mon – Fri | 8:00a – 4:30p class & 6:00a – 2:30p clinical | OPEN | Enroll Now |
| 2-week FAST Track | November 9 - 20, 2026 | Mon - Fri | 8:00a – 4:30p class & 6:00a – 2:30p clinical | OPEN | Enroll Now |
| 5-week Evening & Sat | Nov 10 - Dec 17, 2026 | T/W/TH/S | 5:30p-9:30p & 6a-2:30p (Sat) | OPEN | Enroll Now |
| 2-week FAST Track | December 7 - 18, 2026 | Mon - Fri | 8:00a – 4:30p class & 6:00a – 2:30p clinical | OPEN | Enroll Now |
Not at all! No prior healthcare experience is required. Our CNA course is designed for beginners. We’ll teach you everything you need to know from the ground up, with plenty of hands-on practice and support along the way.
The CNA program consists of 75 clock hours in total. This includes 45-hours of didactic and hands-on lab instruction, plus 30 hours of supervised clinical training in a real healthcare setting. You must complete all required hours to pass the course.
We offer a Day 2-week FAST Track course that meets Monday – Friday. Class & lab days are 8:00A – 4:30P and Clinical days meet from 7:00A – 3:30P.
Our Evening and Weekend course meets for 5-weeks. Class and lab days meet Tues/Wed/Thurs from 5:30P – 9:30P and meet for Clinical on Saturdays from 7:00A – 3:30P (only 3-4 Saturdays).
Tuition for the CNA course is $865. Additional supplies are required and/or recommended, including proof of a 2-step TB test, navy scrubs for clinical sessions, a binder, gait belt, stethoscope, and a watch with a second hand.
Your clinical site will be discussed and assigned on the first day of class. We partner with several approved facilities throughout the metro area, and you’ll know your exact site in time to plan accordingly. Just a heads-up – clinical sessions begin promptly at 7:00 AM, so be ready for early starts!
Yes! Our program is specifically designed to meet Iowa’s state requirements and will prepare you for both the written and skills portions of the CNA certification exam.
For your first day, please bring a binder or notebook (you’ll receive multiple handouts and a printed study guide already 3-hole punched), a pen or pencil, a highlighter, and of course – a great attitude! You do not need to wear scrubs on the first day; we’ll go over all dress code details on day 1
