The certificate in nurse assisting prepares students for employment as a certified nursing assistant (CNA). The program combines classroom instruction with clinical laboratory practice and long-term and/or acute care experiences. As part of this curriculum, students have the opportunity to learn foundational skills in the healthcare field and take a written and hands-on skills examination to become certified as a CNA. Completion of the nurse assisting program of study provides job-ready skills as a nurse assistant. NOTE: The courses required for the nurse assisting certificate differ from the pre-nursing courses required by SWCC's nursing (LPN/RN) program. To view SWCC nursing requirements and the pre-nursing course outline, please visit the SWCC nursing education program page.
Awards Available
Certificate
A certificate is awarded following successful completion of a select group of career courses in a four- to six-month format.
Potential Careers
- Certified nursing assistant (CNA)
- Home healthcare aide
Sample Courses
- HSC 110 Introduction to Health Occupations
- HSC 114 Medical Terminology
- HSC 172 Nurse Aide
- PNN 208 Pharmacology Basics
Click on the course number in the list above to view the course description. This may not be a complete list of courses that may be included for the nurse assisting program.
Degree requirement advising sheet
Contact:
For non-credit opportunities, contact SWCC Business & Community Development, 641.782.1441.
For concurrent (high school) enrollment questions, contact Rachel Ramaeker, secondary programs director.