Best CNA Programs in Louisville, KY: Top 5 Choices in 2025

Table of Contents[show]

Spalding University
Jefferson Community & Technical College (JCTC)
American Red Cross
RightChoice Health Care Institute
Kentucky Health Care Training Institute
Frequently Asked Questions

With an aging population, the demand for certified nursing assistants (CNAs) is on the rise across the country. This is especially true in Louisville, Kentucky, where over 15% of the population is aged 65 and over. To meet the growing need for qualified caregivers, several institutions in Louisville offer accredited CNA training programs that prepare students to obtain their CNA certification and pursue rewarding careers in the healthcare sector.

In Louisville, the average hourly wage for a CNA is $18.55, which is higher than the national median pay. The low cost of living coupled with a strong job outlook makes the city an ideal location for those looking to become nurse aides. This article will explore the top five highly rated CNA programs in Louisville to help prospective students make the right choice.

1. Spalding University

901 South Fourth Street, Louisville, KY 40203 502-585-9911

Spalding University offers a unique CNA certification program in Louisville with a blend of online and in-person elements. Students complete 45 hours of classroom lectures and skill labs in the first six weeks before taking five proctored exams. Remaining hours are fulfilled through participation in clinical schedules at local healthcare facilities. This offers students vital real-world experience.

Cost: $1500
Program Length: Six weeks
Prerequisites: High school diploma or GED, background check completed by CastleBranch

2. Jefferson Community & Technical College (JCTC)

109 E Broadway, Louisville, KY 40202 502-213-2316

This centrally located public college provides a 6.5-credit CNA program covering 75 contact hours. Approved to train nursing aides by the Kentucky Department for Medicaid Services, the program comprises HST 104 and NAA 100 courses. JCTC offers financial aid to make the program more affordable for students, who pay an average $590 as tuition fees.

Cost: $815
Program Length: Four to six weeks
Prerequisites: High school diploma or GED

3. American Red Cross

510 E Chestnut St, Louisville, KY 40202 502-589-4450

The American Red Cross chapter on East Chestnut Street provides nationally accredited nurse aide training (NAT) programs. Students undergo the standard number of classwork and clinical practice hours mandated by the state. This allows them to smoothly transition into entry-level nursing positions at healthcare facilities. As a respected humanitarian organization, the Red Cross attracts students interested in improving lives.

Cost: $1500
Program Length: Six to eight weeks
Prerequisites: High school diploma or GED

4. RightChoice Health Care Institute

2301 Hurstbourne Village Drive, Suite 200, Louisville, KY 40299 502-974-2541

RightChoice Health Care Institute is located on Hurstbourne Village Drive and offers a reputable nurse aide training program approved by the state. Upon completion, students can take the Kentucky State Exam to become a State Registered Nurse Aide (SRNA). The curriculum covers all of the classroom and lab training required to become competent in basic nursing skills. RightChoice has an excellent track record of students successfully passing the state exam.

Cost: $765
Program Length: Eight weeks
Prerequisites: High school diploma or GED

5. Kentucky Health Care Training Institute

3010 Taylor Springs Drive, Louisville, KY 40220 502-458-4570

With over 20 years of experience in training quality nurse aides, Kentucky Health Care Training Institute is located on New LaGrange Road. It has an outstanding faculty with over 40 years of combined experience in training students to the highest standards. The institution utilizes advanced techniques and goes above and beyond state requirements to ensure that students become exceptional nursing aides.

Cost: $735
Program Length: Four to six weeks
Prerequisites: High school diploma or GED

With excellent employment prospects at healthcare facilities in Louisville, these five institutions prepare students to launch rewarding and meaningful careers as CNAs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the prerequisites to enroll in a CNA program in Louisville?

Most CNA programs require applicants to have a high school diploma or GED. You must pass a background check, be able to lift up to 50lbs, and undergo a health screening that includes immunizations, a TB test, and a drug test. Some experience in healthcare, though not required, can strengthen your application.

How much does CNA training and certification cost in Louisville?

In Louisville, the tuition for a CNA program ranges from $590 to $1,500 depending on the institution. Other costs are about $100 to $200 for textbooks, uniforms, health screenings, and the state CNA exam fee. Total costs range between $700 and $1,700. Many schools offer financial aid to students who qualify.

What is covered in CNA classes and training in Louisville?

CNA classes provide 75+ hours of coursework and hands-on skills training in patient hygiene, safety protocols, measuring vital signs, nutrition, medical documentation, diseases and disorders, ethics, emergency response, and Kentucky nurse aide regulations. Clinical rotations take place at assisted living facilities.

How long does it take to complete CNA training in Louisville?

Most CNA training programs in Louisville can be completed full-time within four to eight weeks. Accelerated programs may finish quicker, while part-time tracks generally take eight to 12 weeks. The total coursework and clinical hours meet Kentucky requirements for certification eligibility.