East Central College offers a structured and affordable CNA program in Union, Missouri, designed for those looking to enter the healthcare field with practical, hands-on experience. The 18-week course includes both classroom and clinical training and meets twice a week in the afternoons and evenings, making it a solid option for working adults or those with other daytime commitments. With 175 total training hours, the program meets all Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services requirements for CNA certification. Tuition ranges from $800 to $1,500, and financial assistance is available for eligible students.
Program Overview
This CNA course at East Central College prepares students for entry-level roles in long-term care, hospitals, or home health environments. The program follows the standard Missouri CNA training requirements: 75 hours of classroom instruction and 100 hours of clinical training, which are completed simultaneously throughout the semester.
The classroom portion focuses on core skills like taking vital signs, assisting with bathing and feeding, infection control, patient safety, communication, and documentation. Students gain essential knowledge that supports their clinical practice, and they’re taught how to handle real-life patient care scenarios with professionalism and empathy.
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Class Schedule and Format
Classes are held on Mondays and Wednesdays from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., making this a part-time option that still fits into a relatively traditional academic schedule. The program runs for approximately 18 weeks, though East Central notes the typical program length ranges from 14 to 16 weeks, depending on specific class needs or holidays.
This schedule is ideal for people who may work mornings or weekends and want an in-person program that doesn’t require a full-time commitment. It also allows students enough time to digest information and practice skills in a paced, supportive environment.
Clinical Training Component
In addition to classroom instruction, students must complete 100 hours of clinical experience in a local, state-approved long-term care facility. The college handles placement, ensuring each student gets real-world patient interaction under professional supervision.
A strict attendance policy is enforced for both the classroom and clinical portions. This is important to note—students can’t afford to miss time if they want to stay eligible for certification. Consistent attendance also ensures readiness for the state exam and reflects the reliability expected in healthcare roles.
Certification and Exam Eligibility
Once students finish both the classroom and clinical components of the program, they become eligible to take Missouri’s state CNA exam. Passing this exam allows graduates to become Certified Nurse Assistants, fully licensed to work in long-term care facilities, hospitals, or in-home healthcare settings throughout the state.
If you’re already working in a facility but aren’t yet certified, state regulations allow you up to 120 days from your employment start date to complete training and pass your exam. This is an important window to plan around if you’re juggling work and training.
Cost and Financial Assistance
The program cost ranges between $800 and $1,500, depending on the type of training you require. That price includes classroom instruction, clinical placement, and the essentials needed to complete the program.
For students concerned about affordability, East Central College works with state funding programs that can help cover part or all of the tuition for those who qualify. This can make a big difference for adult learners or those switching careers who may not have the means to pay upfront. If you’re unsure about qualifying, you’re encouraged to contact the school’s Health Careers Outreach Coordinator for guidance.
Admission Requirements
To enroll in the CNA program at East Central College, students must meet the following:
- Be 18 years of age (unless enrolled through a high school vo-tech program)
- Pass a criminal background check
- Pass a drug screening
Unlike many schools, East Central does not require a high school diploma or GED, and they provide support for students who need to complete one. This makes the program more accessible than many others in the region and opens doors for those re-entering the workforce or finishing their education.
Class Size and Enrollment Process
Seats in the CNA program are limited—only 15 students are accepted per session—so applying early is essential. This small class size helps ensure personalized attention during both the classroom and clinical portions, which is especially beneficial when learning hands-on patient care techniques.
To apply or get more information, students can contact Terri Warmack, the Health Careers Outreach Coordinator, via phone or email. Her contact information is clearly listed and the college makes a point of being responsive and supportive during the enrollment process.
Student Records and Policies
One helpful feature of the program is that students are entitled to a copy of their classroom and clinical records even if they leave the course early. This kind of transparency can be useful if you plan to transfer or finish your training later.
The college also emphasizes that missing class or clinical hours could jeopardize your standing in the program. With healthcare roles requiring accountability and timeliness, this policy mirrors what you’ll experience on the job—and serves as good preparation.
Facilities and Instruction
East Central College is a public community college with a good reputation for career training. The CNA program is part of its Center for Workforce Development, which focuses on helping students enter high-demand fields quickly and effectively.
The program is taught by experienced instructors who are familiar with the state CNA testing standards and who bring clinical experience to the classroom. Having qualified, supportive instructors is especially important in a hands-on field like healthcare, where confidence and precision matter.
Who Should Consider East Central College
East Central College’s CNA program is a solid fit for students who want a structured, in-person training experience at an affordable cost. It’s especially appealing for adult learners, people re-entering the workforce, or those without a high school diploma, thanks to its minimal entry barriers and state funding support. The evening class schedule is ideal for those balancing work or family obligations, and the 18-week format gives students time to absorb the material without being rushed.
If you’re looking for a practical path into healthcare, want real-world training, and appreciate small class sizes with personal support, this program is well worth considering. Just be ready to commit to the full schedule and strict attendance rules—they’re there for a reason. Overall, it’s a down-to-earth, career-focused program built for people serious about entering patient care.
| Category | Details |
| Cost | $800–$1,500 |
| Duration & Clock Hours | 18 weeks; 175 total hours (75 classroom + 100 clinical) |
| Evening/Weekend Classes? | Yes; classes held Mondays and Wednesdays from 2:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Job Placement? | Not guaranteed; program prepares students for state certification and employment |
| Requirements | Must be 18+ (unless in vo-tech), pass a criminal background check and drug screen; GED not required |
| Address | 1964 Prairie Dell Road, Union, MO 63084 |
| Phone | 636-584-6531 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | https://www.eastcentral.edu/cwd/health-care-careers/certified-nurse-assistant-cna/ |
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