Advice on CNA classes & colleges

[LMB24]

I currently have a BA but I'm looking to start a new career as a nurse. I'm located in Denver and need some advice on respected community colleges to get my associates degree in nursing. I'm also wondering where to go to get my CNA certification..since I want to get some experience in the field while I'm learning about it. I'm open to any and all advice you could give me. Thanks!

[NottaSpringChik, BSN, RN]

The CNA classes at Arapahoe Community College are excellent. I think summer is a good time to take it too.

[tsalagicara]

Hello! Regis University has an accelerated BSN program for people with a prior bachelor's degree. Front Range Community College's Larimer County campus has a separate waitlist (supposed to be shorter) for those with a prior bachelor's. I've taken CNA classes at Front Range (in Westminster) as well and they were pretty good. I was in a hybrid class, meaning that the theory portion was online, but we met in person for class one day a week to practice skills. It was interesting. There are a lot of other schools with CNA training around here too. I've heard Emily Griffith's CNA program is also good, as is their LPN program if you want to go that route.

Whatever you decide, I wish you the best of luck on your search! Have a good week. :)

[Dennis88]

Metro also has an accelerated BSN, as does CU (althought it's extremely competitive). The community colleges have long waiting lists for the associate's programs (some are transitioning to competitive applications like Arapahoe but not until they finish taking people from the waitlists). The Denver School of Nursing also has a BSN program for people with previous bachelor's.

IMO you're better off going for one of the BSN programs than the community college programs if you already have a bacehlor's because of the wait lists.