Nursing Assistant

Launch or Enhance Your Nursing Career

Nursing Assistants play a vital role in providing person-centered care to patients, residents, and clients in various healthcare settings. Many students begin their nursing careers in this role, with some choosing to advance their credentials while others stay in this fulfilling career long-term. At Riverland Community College, our Nursing Assistant course equips you with essential skills to support clients' physical and emotional needs, preparing you for the MN Nursing Assistant Competency Exam.

Course Highlights

• State Certification Prep: Completion of our course qualifies you to take the State of MN Competency Exam, a requirement to be listed on the Minnesota Nursing Assistant Registry.
• Employment Opportunities: Being on the registry opens doors to work in nursing homes, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and more.
• Career Advancement: This course provides a pathway to further nursing education and satisfies prerequisites for Riverland’s Nursing program.

Course Details: HCNA1100 - Nursing Assistant

Riverland Community College’s Nursing Assistant training is approved by the Minnesota Department of Health. This 4-credit course covers both theoretical and hands-on training, preparing students for state and federal requirements for Nursing Assistant roles in long-term care facilities.

• Credits: 4 (2.75 lecture, 1.25 lab)
• Certification: Qualifies students to take the Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation, leading to placement on the Minnesota Nursing Assistant Registry.

How to Register for the Nursing Assistant Program

1. Apply to the College
   Complete the application to enroll as a student.

2. Register for Classes
   Register for the Nursing Assistant class either as a full-time or visiting student.

3. Financial Aid Eligibility
   To receive financial aid, students must apply to the college and declare a major other than Nursing Assistant.

   • For help, contact Amy Wagner at 507-433-0575 or the Riverland Admissions Department at 507-433-0600.

Need Assistance?

• Program Questions:
  • Nursing Assistant/Medication Aide Advisor: Amy Wagner, amy.wagner@riverland.edu
  • Program Director: Allyson Klankowski, allyson.klankowski@riverland.edu

Accessibility Services for Nursing Assistant Students

Ensuring an Inclusive Learning Environment

Riverland Community College is committed to providing equal access to education for all students. If you need accommodations for a documented disability, please contact Accessibility Services early to ensure support is in place.

• Contact Information:
  Email: accessibility@riverland.edu
  Phone: 507-379-3328 or 507-433-0801
• Planning Ahead: Accommodations are not retroactive, so it’s recommended to coordinate with Accessibility Services prior to the first week of class, especially if enrolled in short or condensed courses.

Tip: Review required documentation for accommodations and submit forms ahead of time to make the most of your learning experience.

Last Updated: October 30, 2024