Find the Right Online CNA Program for You — Fast
Not sure which CNA program in St. Louis is the right fit? Use this quick guide to narrow it down based on your goals:
1. Aspire Healthcare Solutions
Aspire’s 6-week hybrid CNA program includes 75 hours of online coursework combined with 100 hours of in-person clinical training. The online portion is self-paced but follows a structured evening class schedule to support working students.
Classes are conducted in a hybrid format, meaning students complete theoretical training online and attend scheduled clinical rotations in person. The total 175 hours meet Missouri state requirements for CNA certification.
While the program is tuition-based, students approved through SLATE may qualify to take it for free. This class is not eligible for the Missouri Reimbursement Grant.
All clinicals and in-person appointments are held at their new location: 1120 S. 6th Street Suite 200, St. Louis, MO 63104.
| Category | Details |
| Duration/Clock Hours | 6 weeks / 175 total hours (75 online, 100 clinical) |
| Format | Hybrid (online coursework + in-person clinical rotation) |
| Schedules | Evening classes; next start date: June 24, 2025 |
| Address | 1120 S. 6th Street, Suite 200, St. Louis, MO 63104 |
| Phone | 314-736-1146 |
2. St. Charles Community College
St. Charles Community College offers an accelerated Certified Nurse Assistant program in a hybrid format during the summer semester. Students complete 75 hours of classroom instruction online through Canvas, along with three in-person lab days at the Dardenne Creek Campus. Lab attendance is mandatory.
The clinical portion includes 100 hours of hands-on training at a local long-term care facility. Clinical shifts are held four days a week and cannot be missed. Students must complete both components to be eligible for the Missouri CNA certification exam, which is scheduled through a third-party provider.
The program costs $950 total—$600 for online coursework and $350 for the clinical internship. Students must be 18 or older and meet all health, drug screening, and background check requirements before registration. This course is only offered during the summer and fills quickly.
| Category | Details |
| Duration/Clock Hours | 8 weeks / 175 total hours (75 online + 100 clinical) |
| Format | Hybrid (online coursework, in-person labs and clinical shifts) |
| Schedules | Summer semester only; online class + 3 lab days + 12 clinical shifts |
| Address | 4601 Mid Rivers Mall Drive, Cottleville, MO 63376 |
| Phone | 636-922-8000 |
3. Essential NA Academy
Essential NA Academy offers a 7-week hybrid CNA program that includes 75 hours of online instruction and at least 100 hours of hands-on clinical training. The first five weeks are fully virtual, with 24/7 access to course materials and support from a registered nurse instructor.
The final two weeks include in-person clinical training at a local partner facility. Clinical instructors coordinate directly with the online instructor to track student progress and performance.
The program costs $2,300 and uses the “How to Be a Nurse Assistant” curriculum. Students benefit from real-time progress tracking and individualized instructor feedback. Essential NA Academy reports a 98% CNA exam pass rate.
| Category | Details |
| Duration/Clock Hours | 7 weeks / 175 total hours (75 online + 100 clinical) |
| Format | Hybrid (5 weeks online + 2 weeks in-person clinicals) |
| Schedules | Online access 24/7; clinical schedule coordinated with instructor |
| Address | 7224 Natural Bridge Rd., Normandy, MO 63121 |
| Phone | 314-789-8861 |
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4. Nursing EDification
Nursing EDification offers multiple hybrid CNA program formats. All hybrid programs begin with a week of structured in-person classes, followed by online modules and in-person clinicals.
The Hybrid Day program runs for 8 weeks. Students complete the first week on-site (Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–2:30 p.m.), then shift to self-paced online work. Clinicals are held on either Monday/Tuesday or Wednesday/Thursday from 7:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
The Hybrid Evening program also lasts 8 weeks. Week one is held in person from 4:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. After that, students complete online modules on Monday and Tuesday, with clinicals on Wednesday and Thursday from 3:00 p.m.–11:00 p.m.
Tuition for hybrid tracks is $1,990. A $350 deposit is required within a week of applying. Job placement assistance is available, though not guaranteed.
| Category | Details |
| Duration/Clock Hours | 6 to 10 weeks depending on schedule |
| Format | Hybrid (in-person first week, then online modules + in-person clinicals) |
| Schedules | Day, evening, and weekend options; clinicals scheduled Mon–Thurs or weekends |
| Address | 500 Northwest Plaza Pennridge Dr., Suite #1020, Saint Ann, MO 63074 |
| Phone | (314) 395-5099 |
5. Green Creek Education
Green Creek Education offers a blended CNA training program that combines online coursework with in-person clinical instruction. Students complete the academic portion online using a cloud-based platform accessible by smartphone, tablet, or computer. The system includes pre-recorded lectures, chapter reviews, quizzes, and practice tests.
All clinical skills are taught face-to-face by nurse educators at scheduled sessions. The platform also tracks student progress with real-time data analytics, allowing instructors to monitor learning time and skill competencies. Students use digital textbooks and checklists, and no downloads are needed to access course content.
Instructors guide students both online and in person, with all coursework designed around the Missouri-approved Nurse Assistant curriculum.
| Category | Details |
| Duration/Clock Hours | Not explicitly stated; includes didactic + scheduled clinical training |
| Format | Blended/Hybrid (Online coursework + In-person clinical instruction) |
| Schedules | Online access 24/7; in-person clinical sessions scheduled separately |
| Address | 5992 Howdershell Rd, Hazelwood, MO 63042 |
| Phone | 636-856-7524 |
Our Advice: How to Choose the Right Online CNA Program in St. Louis
If you’re trying to pick the best online or hybrid CNA class in St. Louis, the good news is you’ve got some solid options. But each one fits different types of students, and your best choice really depends on your goals, budget, availability, and learning style.
We’ve reviewed five reputable programs: Aspire Healthcare Solutions, St. Charles Community College, Essential NA Academy, Nursing Edification, and Green Creek Education. Here’s our take—not just the facts, but the guidance we’d give a friend trying to figure it all out.
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St. Charles Community College – $950 total tuition
If you’re watching your budget, SCC is one of the most affordable programs in the area. It’s a solid, state-approved option that gets straight to the point—online coursework, clinicals, and the essentials you need to take the exam. It doesn’t come with lots of extras, but for many, that’s a good thing.
Who it’s best for:
- Students who want a clear, structured, low-cost path to certification
- People who can manage strict attendance for labs and clinicals (no absences allowed)
What to ask:
- Is the next session accelerated or standard pace?
- Will clinical placement be guaranteed if you don’t have an employer already?
Nursing Edification – Multiple schedules: day, night, hybrid, and weekends
Nursing Edification stands out for offering more scheduling options than anyone else. If you’re balancing work, kids, or other obligations, this school likely has a format that works for you. The hybrid evening and weekend classes make it accessible for students who can’t attend during the day.
Who it’s best for:
- People with full-time jobs or family responsibilities
- Students who prefer a slower pace (weekend option is 10 weeks)
- Learners who want job placement help after graduation
What to ask:
- Is job placement help hands-on (resumé help, referrals) or just general advice?
- What’s included in the tuition (uniform, supplies, exam fees)?
Aspire Healthcare Solutions – 6-week accelerated hybrid program
Aspire offers a fast-track option—just 6 weeks—and includes everything from BP cuffs to textbooks. It’s a smart choice if you want to finish quickly and start working. Plus, grant funding may be available if you qualify through SNAP, TANF, or other programs.
Who it’s best for:
- Motivated students looking to switch careers fast
- Anyone eligible for tuition assistance through workforce programs
- Those comfortable with a fast-paced, online-heavy format
What to ask:
- Does your background check or personal schedule meet clinical rotation requirements?
- Is your session eligible for any grants or discounts?
Essential NA Academy – $2,300 for a 7-week hybrid program
While this program is a bit more expensive, Essential NA Academy shines with its personalized instruction, 24/7 access to course material, and a 98% pass rate on the CNA exam. If you’re nervous about getting through the material or need close support, this school may be worth the extra cost.
Who it’s best for:
- Students who need more one-on-one attention
- Anyone who values a high success rate and proven track record
- Learners who like digital access but still want in-person clinicals
What to ask:
- Is there job placement or networking support after graduation?
- What kind of support do struggling students receive?
Green Creek Education – Custom blend of online and in-person, pricing varies
Green Creek is newer on the scene but brings an impressive tech-based system. If you’re tech-comfortable and want to track your own progress, access materials on your phone, and learn with visual tools, this could be a great fit. Their platform is designed to work around you, not the other way around.
Who it’s best for:
- Self-motivated learners who like online tools
- Students who want a modern learning experience
- People who might already work in healthcare and want career development
What to ask:
- What’s the total cost (they don’t list it upfront)?
- How is clinical scheduling handled?
No matter which school you lean toward, don’t skip the step of reaching out directly. Ask about:
- Class and clinical schedules: Can they work around your job or kids?
- Payment plans or grants: Could you qualify for free tuition or aid?
- Job support: Will they help you find a job, or are you on your own?
Taking the time to talk to someone at each school—email, phone, or in-person—can reveal a lot. The way a program responds tells you if they’ll support you when things get tough during the course too. That extra step could save you from signing up for a class that doesn’t actually fit your life.
There’s no “one best” CNA class in St. Louis—but there is one that’s right for you. Take a moment to match the program to your goals, schedule, and comfort level. Whether you need speed, support, affordability, or flexibility—someone has you covered.
And when in doubt, reach out. The right questions now will help you feel 100% confident later.