BNA Frequently Asked Questions

I'm interested in your Basic Nursing Assistant Program, where do I start/ what do I do?

If you are new to College of DuPage, you should start by talking to an Admissions Representative at (630) 942-2380.

If you have taken classes here before, you should start by attending an Advising Session; these are posted online.

What is the difference between B.N.A. and C.N.A.?

• • B.N.A. is the program name and training you receive - Basic Nurse Assistant
  • C.N.A. is the credential you receive after passing the competency test - Certified Nurse Assistant.

When do my health requirements need to be completed in order to register for the B.N.A. Program?

All health requirements must be completed, and your chart review must be received by the college directly from Edward Corporate Health, before you can apply to the program. The TB test and drug screen must be completed within 90 days of the start of the class; dates are posted on the BNA web page.

Can I enroll in a B.N.A. program if I haven't taken a college level English course?

Yes, as long as you receive a score of Category One on the Writing Placement Essay (WPE).

If I have a composite 20 on my ACT, do I need to take the reading and writing placement test for the B.N.A. Program?

A composite 20 on the ACT will satisfy the reading requirement only.

The writing requirement must be met by either a score of Category One on the Compass Writing Placement Essay (WPE) or completing ENGLI 1101 or 1102, or equivalent, with a grade C or better.

My C.N.A. certification has lapsed, how can I become recertified?

If a nurse aide is in good standing with no findings of abuse, neglect or theft and has not worked for pay in the nursing-related services for 24 consecutive months or more, he/she may be able to re-certify by either retraining and testing or testing only. Contact the Illinois Department of Public Health at 217-785-5133 for re-certification information. Or you may contact Gloria Kas at kasglo@cod.edu.

Can I work as a C.N.A. in Illinois if my certification is from another state?

Yes, as long as you meet the requirements set forth by the Illinois Department of Public Health.

• • • Have been deemed competent on another state's registry for CNAs.
    • Meet Illinois C.N.A. employer requirements

Do I need to take a B.N.A. course if I was a Medic in the military?

Not if you meet the requirements set forth by the Illinois Department of Public Health.  

• • • Proof of completion/ evidence of experience
    • Proof of employment authorization
    • Pass written competency test

Can I get financial aid for the BNA Program?

Yes, if your intended field of study is the A.D.N. Program. Click here for eligibility details.  Additional information can be found on the Understanding your Financial Aid page. Or, you can call the Financial Aid Office at 630-942-2251. 

 

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Nursing Department
Health and Sciences Building
425 Fawell Blvd.
Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
(630) 942-8433
FAX: (630) 858-5409

Nursing Skills Laboratory
Health and Science Center (HSC), Room 2142, (630) 942-8398

Health and Sciences Division
Health and Science Center (HSC), Room 1220, (630) 942-8331