Nursing Assistant
- Technical Diploma
Program Number:
Program Credits:
Estimated Total Cost:
Typical Start:
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 [1].
Nursing Assistant 2021, 2022, & 2023 Graduation Employment Stats
| Graduates | 701 |
| Graduates Responding | 320 |
| Employed in Related Occupation | 26 |
| Employed in Non-related Occupations | 19 |
| Seeking Employment | 1 |
| Continuing Education | 269 |
| Not in Labor Market | 274 |
Salary Data - Related Employment
| Part Time | Full Time | |
|---|---|---|
| Responding | 4 | 11 |
| Average Hours Per Week | 24 | 37 |
| Average Hourly Wage | $18 | $17.81 |
| Hourly Wage Range | $16.50-$20.00 | $14.00-$23.00 |
| Average Annual Salary | $53,000 |
Respondents in Related Occupations
- Certified Nursing Assistant, Perioperative Technician , SHC Assistant Manager, Victim Advocate, Program Technician
Career Opportunities
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
Admission Requirements:
College Requirements
Application:
Application Fee:
Program Specific 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 [2]
- Background Check [3]
- COVID-19 Vaccination Status & TB [4]
- If COVID vaccines are required by a clinical partner, you will be notified.
* Tuberculosis (TB) Test
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 and 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 [5].
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 [6].
- 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 [7] 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 [8]. Or find information on how to access resources on our Regional Locations web page [9].
- 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 [10] or call 608-785-9198.
Need Assistance?
- Contact the Learning Commons [11]! The staff are happy to answer questions, provide individualized assistance, and direct you to other supports as needed.
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 [12]
CNA Out-of-State Transfer Information [13]
Refer to the Nursing Assistant Schedule for a complete listing of upcoming courses:
- Summer 2025 Schedule [15]
- Fall 2025 Schedule [16]
Program Contacts
Marcia Robbins
Program Co-Chair, Nursing Assistant
608-789-4762
RobbinsM@westerntc.edu [17]
For admission help contact: admissionscoach@westerntc.edu [18]
Courses
Western offers most courses in a 7-week format, but course length can vary. There are two 7-week sessions in each term, so courses listed below may not be taken at the same time. See www.westerntc.edu/7-weeks [19] for more information.
This course list gives you an idea of what coursework will be required but is not the official list. Current students should use the MyWestern [20] self-service portal for academic planning.