Little Rock, AR
Philander Smith University CNA Program
Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)
Location
Little Rock, AR
Duration
8 weeks, 104.5 contact hours
Cost
$1,350 program charges + $100 application fee
State Required Hours
90 hours minimum
- Address
900 W. Daisy L. Gatson Bates Drive
Little Rock, AR 72202
- Phone
- (501) 375-9845
About This Program
Run by the School of Allied and Public Health at Philander Smith University in downtown Little Rock just west of MacArthur Park, this CNA/Home Health Aide program is approved by the Arkansas DHS Office of Long Term Care and awards seven college credit hours alongside the credential. Cohorts launched in Spring 2026 combine classroom instruction with a clinical rotation, and the all-inclusive tuition bundles CPR, TB testing, background check, uniforms, and the state exam fee. Graduates are prepared for the Arkansas Headmaster/Prometric competency exam and listing on the Arkansas Nurse Aide Registry. Applicants must be 18+ with a high school diploma or GED.
Location & Directions
900 W. Daisy L. Gatson Bates Drive, Little Rock, AR 72202
Becoming a CNA in Arkansas
Arkansas CNA training and certification are regulated by the Office of Long Term Care (OLTC), a division of the Arkansas Department of Human Services. Unlike most surrounding states, Arkansas requires 90 hours of state-approved training — 15 hours above the federal OBRA-87 minimum — to reflect the state's emphasis on long-term care competency. The OLTC partners with D&SDT-Headmaster (often shortened to 'Headmaster' or 'TMU') to administer the written and skills competency exam and to maintain the public Nurse Aide Registry.
Minimum Age
16
Training Hours
90 hours minimum
Exam Vendor
D&SDT-Headmaster (TestMaster Universe / TMU)
Time to Cert
8-12 weeks
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the CNA program at Philander Smith University CNA Program include?
Run by the School of Allied and Public Health at Philander Smith University in downtown Little Rock just west of MacArthur Park, this CNA/Home Health Aide program is approved by the Arkansas DHS Office of Long Term Care and awards seven college credit hours alongside the credential. The program is located at 900 W. Daisy L. Gatson Bates Drive, Little Rock, AR 72202. For the current curriculum, admission requirements, and start dates, call (501) 375-9845 or visit https://www.philander.edu/academics/school-of-allied-and-public-health/cna-program/.
How much does Philander Smith University CNA Program cost?
Philander Smith University CNA Program lists tuition for its certified nurse aide (cna) at $1,350 program charges + $100 application fee. Total program cost for students typically includes state exam fees, background-check fees, books, and supplies on top of tuition, so the final out-of-pocket figure can vary. Call Philander Smith University CNA Program at (501) 375-9845 for the current fee breakdown and any available scholarships or financial aid.
How long is the program at Philander Smith University CNA Program?
The certified nurse aide (cna) at Philander Smith University CNA Program is structured as 8 weeks, 104.5 contact hours. Arkansas requires 90 hours minimum of state-approved training, so this program meets or exceeds the state minimum. Contact the program at (501) 375-9845 for current cohort start dates and schedule options.
How do I apply or contact Philander Smith University CNA Program?
Call Philander Smith University CNA Program directly at (501) 375-9845 or visit https://www.philander.edu/academics/school-of-allied-and-public-health/cna-program/. The program is located at 900 W. Daisy L. Gatson Bates Drive, Little Rock, AR 72202. Ask about upcoming cohort start dates, application deadlines, background-check requirements, and any scholarships or financial-aid options before enrolling.
What Arkansas CNA requirements should I know before enrolling at Philander Smith University CNA Program?
Before enrolling at Philander Smith University CNA Program, make sure you meet Arkansas's minimum age (16), education requirements, and background-check rules. Arkansas requires 90 hours minimum of state-approved training and uses D&SDT-Headmaster (TestMaster Universe / TMU) for the competency exam, with most candidates reaching certification in 8-12 weeks. See the full Arkansas CNA requirements page for a complete checklist.
Are there other CNA programs near Little Rock?
Yes. In addition to Philander Smith University CNA Program in Little Rock, our directory includes CNA training programs in North Little Rock, Springdale, Bentonville, Hot Springs, Pine Bluff, and other Arkansas cities. Comparing programs by location, schedule, and cost is the easiest way to find the best fit for your situation. Browse all Arkansas CNA classes for the full list.
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