Data from the Texas Department of Health Services shows that the number of Certified Nursing Assistants in the state declined from 100,161 in 2020 to 86,919 in 2022. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, CNAs are in high demand in Texas due to the current workforce moving to higher-paying jobs and the soaring elderly population. As a result, the Texas Health and Human Services encourages learners to enroll in Online CNA classes Texas to help bridge the gap in the workforce and to complement their Online Nurse Aide In-Service Education rolled out in 2015. Our nursing experts explore the scope of these online CNA classes, explaining the schools to register at, the course outline, costs, durations, and employment opportunities. We also take CNA examinations for students needing accurate and timely help.
Schools Offering Online CNA Classes Texas
Online learning rose to 170% during the pandemic. After the pandemic, this learning mode nudged up to 176% due to more schools adopting virtual distance learning. Online CNA classes in Texas were not exempted. Here are the top Texas-approved schools offering CNA classes online.
American Red Cross
The American Red Cross offers online CNA classes that combine virtual and in-person training. Three-quarters of the lessons are online. The last quarter consists primarily of clinical rotation done at Texas-approved facilities.
ACE Nursing Education Services
The ACE Training Institute is based in Houston, Texas. It provides 100% online Texas BON Certified CNA classes that meet health industry requirements. ACE certifications are among the widely recognized certifications for nursing aides in Texas.
DreamBound CNA Training
Dreambound offers a hybrid CNA training comprising 3 weeks of virtual training and 1 week of in-person classes. The institute is located in Houston, TX. Learners can also choose 100% online or in-person classes depending on their schedule.
Ameritech College of Healthcare
Ameritech College (now Joyce University) is based in Draper, Utah. They offer online didactic CNA training that combines clinical rotations at various health facilities in the city.
Lone Star College
The Lone Star College offers a non-credit, fast-track CNA program at its six campuses. Learners can enroll for the classes at LSC-Cyfair, LSC Houston North, LSC-Tomball, LSC-North Harris, and LSC Kingwood.
CNA Online Classes Texas: Durations
A comprehensive CNA online training takes 3 weeks to 4 months, depending on the school. However, the fast-track program can take up to 2 weeks. Below are the durations for the various schools listed above:
- Lone Star: 3 Weeks
- Dream Bound: 2 Weeks
- ACE College: 4 weeks
- CNA Plus Academy: 4 weeks
- Ameritech College: 4 weeks
- American Red Cross: 4 Weeks
The Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADs) regulates CNA online training by state-approved facilities. DAD requirements for licensing include:
- Minimum 75 total hours
- At least 59 hours of theoretical training — either in class or virtual
- At least 16 hours of hands-on clinical externship training.
All virtual learners seeking future licensing must complete the 75 hours approved by DAD.
CNA Online Classes in Texas: The Course Curriculum
In addition to the minimum hourly requirements, DADs have particular guidelines for CNA course curriculums. All Texas approved-online CNA classes must cover the following areas:
- The Role of CNAs: This class takes learners through the scope of CNA practice. It outlines the roles of CNAs in various health facilities and their legal boundaries.
- Patient’s Rights, Independence, and Privileges: This class outlines care practices that ensure autonomy, dignity, and respectful treatment. It teaches students how to promote and protect their patient’s rights, privileges, and independence.
- Infection Control: This class rolls out practices CNAs undertake to prevent the spread of infection in the health facility. It focuses on using PPEs, appropriate hygiene, and protocols for handling infectious or contaminated materials.
- Basic Nursing Skills and Care Competencies: This class teaches the fundamental CNA skills that ensure comprehensive care. It focuses on monitoring, measuring, and recording vital signs, assisting with daily activities, and ensuring safe mobility.
- Social and Mental Health Services: This class delves into the emotional needs of both the patient and CNAs. It explores mental health awareness, holistic care, and coping mechanisms during CNA practice.
- Basic Restorative Services: This class delves into how CNAs can assist patients to regain and maintain their independence. It covers appropriate exercises, assistive devices, and mobility assistance.
- Personal Care Skills: This class teaches the basic day-to-day personal care tasks CNAs administer to patients. It covers the patient’s hygiene, feeding, toileting, and grooming.
Where to Seek Employment Opportunities After CNA Training in Texas
CNA job opportunities range between 5,000 to 10,000 annually. In 2022, the state required about 7405 CNAs, according to Indeed.com. In 2023, the number declined to 7335. Learners can get the comprehensive CNA job openings in this CNA jobs Texas list compiled by Indeed. The top destinations to begin the search include the following:
- University Hospital, San Antonio
- Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital, Dallas
- Christus St. Michael Hospital, Texarkana
- Clear Lake Regional Medical Center, Webster
- Doctors Hospital at Rennaisance, Edinburg
Online CNA Classes in Texas: The Parting Shot
The future of Certified Nursing Assistance in Texas is promising as the state’s elderly population grows. Enrolling in online CNA classes in Texas should be your top priority if you seek a secure job opportunity that promises at least $31,200 in annual earnings. Contact our nursing experts to take your online CNA classes or exams if you need help to balance your schedule or streamline your career path.
