Certified Nursing Aide

Certified Nursing Aide (CNA) Program

A certified nursing aide (CNA), also known as a certified nursing assistant, helps patients with daily activities that may be difficult for them due to disease, injury or disability. This can include bathing and other hygiene tasks, getting dressed, eating, taking medication on time and helping patients move around safely.  

As a CNA, you’ll work under a nurse’s supervision and may assist with other clinical tasks such as taking a patient’s blood pressure, heart rate and other vital signs. Typical work environments can include hospitals, nursing homes, assisted-living facilities, adult daycare centers and rehabilitation centers.

While a certified nurse aide is often considered an entry-level position, it can also serve as a good foundation if you’re looking to transition into nursing or other healthcare positions.   

Note:  We also offer a Certified Nursing Aide (CNA)/Patient Care Technician (PCT) training program. A certified nursing aide who is trained with PCT background, generally have a more advanced skillset, have additional job responsibilities and higher starting wages. 

  • Average entry-level wage range:  $15 - 20 per hour

Free Training Available to Qualified Candidates

We have partnered with Oakland County Michigan Works! to offer this training to qualified candidates. Attend an information session to learn more.

Dawn's Journey to becoming a Certified Nurse Assistant

Dawn went from a Fine Arts major to a CNA, in only 8-weeks. Now, she is in OCC’s nursing program and is on the path to getting her Doctorate to become a nurse practitioner. 

Program Information

  • Cohort 10:  October 7 - November 6, 2024 (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. plus clinical rotations)
  • Application Deadline:  September 30, 2024
  • Location:  Southfield Campus
  • Value:  $1,250
  • Note:  The Certified Nursing Aide and CNA/PCT training programs are offered on a rotating basis. An earlier training date maybe available with the other program. 

What to Expect

  • Focus: The CNA program is designed to provide the experience, knowledge and skills necessary to become a Certified Nurse Aide. 
  • Certification: Following completion of this program, individuals will have the classroom knowledge required to sit for the Michigan Nurse Aide Exam.
  • Real-world experience: It also includes 18 hours of onsite clinical experience at a partnering skilled nursing facility. 
  • Employer Partners: Ascension Providence Hospital-Southfield and Bellbrook Senior Living Facility

Application Requirements

  • Background check
  • Drug screen
  • Basic math & reading test - requirement for Michigan Works application process
  • Negative Tuberculosis clearance (TB Test)
  • Immunizations:  2 MMR, 2 Varicella, 3 Hepatitis B, Tdap, seasonal Influenza, and up-to-date COVID-19

100% pass rate on the Michigan Nurse Aide Exam

Did you know?
This program is eligible for Michigan Works! funding.

Start the Application Process

If you’re interested in an allied health short-term training program, please complete the form below to start the application process. An OCC representative will be in contact with you soon with details about next steps.

*Note: Indicates a required field.

Have you ever been an OCC student?*
Program of interest
Preferred payment method**Payment is due the week prior to the start of class