Nursing Assistant

Degree Type

Technical Diploma

Typical Start Term

Program code

NUAT

Program Number

305431

Credits

2.00

Estimated Cost

$336

Location

La Crosse

Black River Falls

Independence

Mauston

Tomah

Viroqua

The Nursing Assistant program is your pathway to a rewarding NA career and also serves as a foundation for pursuing other health-related programs. Over the course of 81 hours, you will acquire and demonstrate essential skills, including effective communication, basic nursing and personal care, respect for client's rights, and the care of clients with dementias. This program is proudly recognized by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.

With this technical diploma, you become eligible to take the Wisconsin Nursing Assistant competency evaluation. Passing this evaluation allows you to be included on the Wisconsin Nurse Aide Registry, opening doors to employment opportunities in various healthcare settings such as nursing homes, hospitals, home health agencies, CBRFs, and more. This program equips you with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide crucial care and support to individuals in need within the healthcare industry.

To view the Nursing Assistant program’s required disclosure on professional licensure, please click here (PDF).

Career Opportunities

Nurse Aide - C.N.A.

Home Health Aide

Certified Nursing Assistant

Personnel Care Worker

Patient Care Associate

Program Outcomes

Communicate effectively with clients, family, and co-workers

Protect rights of clients

Demonstrate ethical and legal responsibilities

Work cooperatively in a team environment

Provide holistic, safe care to diverse populations

Demonstrate reporting and documentation

Assist clients with rehabilitation and restorative care

Provide safe care for clients with acute and chronic health conditions

Complete educational requirements for the WI NA competency evaluation

Admissions Requirements

Apply at www.westerntc.edu/how-to-apply
Western’s Admission Coaches are available to help you through the application process. Have questions or need advice? Call 608-785-9200 or email AdmissionsCoach@westerntc.edu.
Western must comply with a Waiting List Policy when academic programs meet capacity. This policy adheres to Wisconsin Administrative Code Chapter TCS10.07.

Additional Requirements

To enroll in the Nursing Assistant program, first apply for admission to the College, then electronically sign the program's Technical Standards, complete a background check, and provide proof of immunization (including a TB Test*). Please see the details below.
- Nursing Assistant Technical Standards
- Background Check (PDF)
- Tuberculosis (TB) Test (PDF)
  - One of the following is required:
    - Two step TB skin test (1-3 weeks apart) OR
    - Two consecutive annual tests (no more than 12 months between tests) OR
    - QuantiFERON Gold blood test (lab report required) OR
    - If positive results provide a lab report or physician verification of a clear chest x-ray.

Software & Technology

Most of Western’s classes require the use of a personal computer or laptop, standard software, internet access, and other technology-related items.

If you do not have a personal computer or laptop, or if the one you have does not meet the following criteria, resources may be available. Submit a Student Resource Request using our online form.

Computer/Laptop Hardware

Smartphones are not recommended for completing assignments.
Chromebooks are not recommended due to issues with installing software that is needed for classes, such as Office 365.
Web camera with microphone (usually built into newer laptops or can be purchased separately) is necessary for online participation.

Software Needs

Western uses the Blackboard Learning Management System. Some courses may use Zoom or Microsoft Teams to meet and work virtually. Visit our website for guidance on how to access and use these tools.
Office 365 (available to download for free once you have a student email)
Recommended web browsers: Chrome or Firefox

For detailed specifications, please review Technology and Software Recommendations for Most Classes on Western’s IT Knowledgebase.

Campus Resources

Western has several computer labs available. Visit our website to find open hours and locations on the La Crosse campus. Or find information on how to access resources on our Regional Locations web page.
The Learning Commons has computers, webcams, and microphones available for in-house use. Our librarians recommend checking your local public library for computer access on the weekends. Staff members can also provide information on free, off-campus Wi-Fi spots. Contact them at LearningCommons@westerntc.edu or call 608-785-9198.

Need Assistance?

Contact the Learning Commons! The staff are happy to answer questions, provide individualized assistance, and direct you to other supports as needed.

This program is part of a career pathway, a laddered approach to career education. It allows you to earn employer-recognized credentials that lead to job and career advancement.

Prior Learning

Previous education and work experience could qualify for Credit for Prior Learning, saving you time and money. Find out more about what may apply to this program.

Additional Information

Our Health and Public Safety programs are required to report additional information to prospective students, including certification exams, licensure, program completion rates, etc. You can find this information in the document below:

Program Details (PDF)

CNA Out-of-State Transfer Information (PDF)

Refer to the Nursing Assistant Schedule for a complete listing of upcoming courses:

Summer 2026 Schedule (PDF)

Program Contacts

Marcia Robbins
Program Co-Chair, Nursing Assistant
608-789-4762
RobbinsM@westerntc.edu

For admission help contact: admissionscoach@westerntc.edu

Is financial aid available?

Learning Format

In-Person

Area of Interest

Health Sciences

Teaser description

The Nursing Assistant program is your pathway to a rewarding NA career and also serves as a foundation for pursuing other health-related programs.

Programs In this Area of Interest

Other Programs in This Area of Interest

Western offers a wide range of Health Sciences programs designed to fit your interests and career aspirations and prepare you for a variety of healthcare settings.

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