Become a Certified Nursing Assistant and Make a Difference!
Our Nurse Assistant Course is an approved training program by the Minnesota Department of Health that prepares you for the state certification exam and a rewarding career in healthcare.
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.
Ready to take the next step? Register today!
Program Breakdown
Cost: $650 per participant (plus an exam fee of approximately $100)
Duration: 4 weeks
Format: Hybrid (Total: 79 hours)
Asynchronous Online Theory: 59 hours (Weeks 1–3)
In-Person Lab Instruction: 4 hours (Week 4)
Clinical Training: 2 days, 8 hours per day for a total of 16 hours. (Week 4)
Additional Make-Up Day: Available if needed for lab or clinical
Nurse Aide Program Graduation: The Friday of week 4.
Certification: Graduates will be eligible to take the Minnesota Nurse Aide Certification Exam within 24 months of completing the program. The exam is administered at a Minnesota Department of Health-designated site.

Course Outcomes

Graduates will understand and adhere to federal and state regulations governing nurse aide practice, ethical responsibilities, and legal considerations, including resident rights, abuse prevention, professional conduct, and strict compliance with HIPAA regulations in handling resident information.

Graduates will deliver a culturally competent, person-centered approach to care, recognizing and respecting all residents’ diverse backgrounds, values, and preferences while maintaining high standards of safety and quality care within the scope of the Nurse Aide practice.

Graduates will communicate professionally, clearly, and compassionately with residents, families, and the healthcare team, ensuring accurate documentation and appropriate reporting of client observations to support collaborative, high-quality care.

Graduates will accurately demonstrate all essential nurse aide skills, including activities of daily living (ADLs), vital sign measurement, elimination support, and nutrition assistance, while upholding best practices in infection control and maintaining a safe healthcare environment.

Graduates will provide sensitive, competent care to residents with cognitive impairments, mental health conditions, and physical disabilities while demonstrating an understanding of aging-related changes, dementia care strategies, and end-of-life support.

Graduates will exhibit the knowledge, technical skills, professionalism, and confidence necessary to provide high-quality care as entry-level nurse aides, meeting industry standards and preparing for success in both certification exams and workplace settings.
Meet the Staff

Melinda Anderson, MSN, RN, CNE
CNA Program Manager
Part-Time Faculty
Of her teaching philosophy, Melinda says, “I believe students in all settings learn best when they are…
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Lyndee Fogelman, MSN-Ed, RN
Adjunct Faculty
Nursing is a deeply versatile profession, offering opportunities to discover areas that ignite passion and…
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Sarah Heu, DNP, BSN, RN
Instructor & Adjunct Faculty
Nursing has always been a lifelong passion for Sarah. From a young age, she was driven by the desire to…
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Elise Larson

Megan Rens, MSN, RN
Clinical and Operations Manager
Megan received her Master of Science in Nursing Leadership and has experience as an RN in inpatient and…
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