Nursing Assistant
- Technical Diploma
Program Number:
Program Credits:
Estimated Total Cost:
Typical Start:
Turn your interest in helping people into a meaningful career. As a nursing assistant, you will directly provide care to patients in hospital, long-term care, or adult day care settings. The program includes a combination of classroom and laboratory activities and hands-on clinical experience in a long-term care facility. You will receive training in communication skills, both oral and written, personal care, basic nursing skills, assisting people in maintaining independence, promoting rehabilitation, and caring for those with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.
The program is approved by the Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services as a Nursing Assistant Training program. Students are required by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services to take the Nursing Assistant Registry Exam if they desire employment in a federally-funded health care facility (one that accepts Medicare and Medicaid patients).
To view the Nursing Assistant program’s required disclosure on professional licensure, please click here [1].
Nursing Assistant 2019-2020 Graduation Employment Stats
| Graduates | 344 |
| Graduates Responding | 126 |
| Employed in Related Occupation | 16 |
| Employed in Non-related Occupations | 19 |
| Seeking Employment | 1 |
| Continuing Education | 90 |
| Not in Labor Market | 90 |
Salary Data - Related Employment
| Part Time | Full Time | |
|---|---|---|
| Responding | 7 | 9 |
| Average Hours Per Week | 24 | 37 |
| Median Hourly Wage | $16.70 | $16.00 |
| Hourly Wage Range | $11.00-$16.73 | $12.00-$18.00 |
| Median Annual Salary | $20,835 | $31,822 |
Respondents in Related Occupations
- Hospice CNA (2), Patient Attendant, CNA (6), Preoperative Technician, Resident Caregiver-CNA, Home Help Assistant,
Career Opportunities
Program Outcomes
- Living responsibly
- Refining professionalism
- Cultivating passion
- Communicate and interact effectively with clients, family, and co-workers
- Maintain and protect client rights
- Report information and record observations
- Demonstrate the ethical and legal responsibilities of the NA/HHA
- Provide safe care to a diverse population, meeting personal, physical and psychosocial client needs
- Assist with client rehabilitation and restorative care, promoting independence
- Assist clients with long-term, disabling conditions including dementia, always focusing on the strengths of the client
- Work cooperatively in a team environment
- Eligible to take 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 read the program’s Essential Functions, complete a background check, and provide proof of immunization (including a TB Test*). Please see the details below.
* 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.
COVID-19 Vaccination Status
COVID-19 vaccination is not required to attend classes at Western Technical College, however your clinical site now requires proof of completion of COVID-19 vaccination to attend their sites. To prevent any interruption in your clinical/practicum/field classes, we are now requiring you to provide us with your COVID-19 vaccination proof to enter this program.
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 2022 Schedule [14]
- Fall 2022 Schedule [15]
Program Contacts
Kris Stegemeyer
Program Co-Chair, Nursing Assistant
608 785-9413
Stegemeyerk@westerntc.edu [16]
Marcia Robbins
Program Co-Chair, Nursing Assistant
608-789-4762
RobbinsM@westerntc.edu [17]
For admission help contact: admissionscoach@westerntc.edu [18]
Career Pathways:
Nursing Assistant
Prior Learning:
Previous education and work experience could qualify for Credit for Prior Learning, saving you time and money. Find out more [19] about what may apply to this program.
Associate Degree:
Courses
The following list is not the official course list for this program. It is intended to give students an idea of what coursework will be required.
Current students should use the MyWestern [20] self-service portal when registering for class.*
* To register for Nursing Assistant, use course number 30543200 [21] (2 credits).