Nurse Aide

The Nurse Aide Training Program is a non-credit certification program designed to prepare students for the Minnesota Nurse Aide Certification Exam. This four-week hybrid program combines asynchronous online learning with hands-on lab and clinical training to equip students with the essential skills required for entry-level healthcare roles. 

The course will be taken in a blended format:

First three weeks: Online coursework that fits your schedule, allowing you to learn at your own pace.

Final week: In-person laboratory and clinical experience in a local long-term care facility, where you’ll gain real-world skills under expert supervision.

This course is open to:

• High school students (16 years and older)
• High school graduates and adults exploring career opportunities
• Potential college students interested in healthcare
• Anyone passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of others

To qualify, candidates must:

• Be able to lift a minimum of 50 lbs, up to 100 lbs.
• Must also have the strength to pull and push.
• Must be able to stand for long periods, up to 12 hours on hard surfaces such as tile.
• Must be able to maintain mental awareness their entire shift, to minimize safety risks.
• Must not be under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or chemical substances their entire shift.
• Can reach above shoulder height.
• Required to twist, bend, squat, kneel, and crouch to care for patients.
• Can attain normal vision, hearing, and speaking abilities with or without assistive devices.
• Have a valid driver’s license
• Have received Background Study Clearance from the Minnesota Department of Human Services within past six months.
• Must be able to work in the U.S.
• Must have documentation showing up-to-date vaccinations status.

The first course will run from June 2-27, 2025.

The course will also be held in January 2026, June 2026, and August 2026. Additional classes may be added.

For the course starting on June 2, 2025, the registration deadline is April 18, 2025.

Graduates of the UNW Nurse Aide Training Program are eligible to take the certification exam anytime within 24 months of graduation at a Minnesota Department of Health designated site. Earning a certification as a Nurse Aide has traditionally been recognized as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). However, the term ‘Nurse Aide’ has gained broader usage in recent years as the Federal job title. While it can still refer to certified professionals, it is also used more generally for individuals working as aides in assisted living facilities, even if they have not yet obtained certification. Understanding this distinction can assist you in navigating your career path and ensure you receive the proper training and credentials for success in healthcare.

After graduation from the UNW Nurse Aide Program, students are encouraged to take the Minnesota Nurse Aide Certification Exam as soon as possible. This exam consists of two parts, a written knowledge exam and a physical skills demonstration exam with a live model patient. The time commitment can vary from 4 to 5 hours, depending on appointment availability. Various days of the week including Saturdays are available for exam appointments.

Minneapolis College is the designated test site for UNW Nurse Aide Program graduates. For complete exam fees, schedules, and registration, visit the Minneapolis Community & Technical College website.

Students are allowed four chances to pass the knowledge exam and three chances to pass the skills exam within 24 months. The 24 months are calculated from the completion date of the UNW (Minnesota-approved) Nurse Aide Program.