Des Moines, IA
DMACC Southridge Center
Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)
Location
Des Moines, IA
Duration
75 hours
Cost
$707.50
State Required Hours
75 hours minimum
- Address
1111 E Army Post Road
Des Moines, IA 50315
- Phone
- (515) 287-8700
About This Program
DMACC's Southridge Center is tucked into the southeast corner of Southridge Mall on Des Moines' south side, an easy stop for students in Indianola Hills, Watrous South, and the surrounding south-of-the-river neighborhoods. The site offers DMACC's Iowa DIAL-approved 75-hour Certified Nurse Aide course along with a Nurse Aide Refresher for previously certified CNAs needing to return to active status. An on-site DMACC Testing Center proctors the Prometric/Headmaster CNA competency exam, so students can train and test in one location before placement on the Iowa Direct Care Worker Registry. The center also offers continuing education and short-term Workforce Training Academy programs.
Location & Directions
1111 E Army Post Road, Des Moines, IA 50315
Becoming a CNA in Iowa
Becoming a Certified Nurse Aide in Iowa is regulated by the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL), which approves all Nurse Aide Training Programs, oversees the Direct Care Worker Registry, and as of January 2026 contracts with TestMaster Universe/Headmaster as the central testing administrator. Iowa requires the federal minimum of 75 hours of training — with roughly 45 classroom/lab hours and at least 30 clinical hours — which is identical to neighboring Missouri and Nebraska but well below California's 160-hour standard.
Minimum Age
16
Training Hours
75 hours minimum
Exam Vendor
TestMaster Universe/Headmaster (with Credentia available for the Remotely Proctored Knowledge Exam)
Time to Cert
5-9 weeks from program start to Direct Care Worker Registry listing
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the CNA program at DMACC Southridge Center include?
DMACC's Southridge Center is tucked into the southeast corner of Southridge Mall on Des Moines' south side, an easy stop for students in Indianola Hills, Watrous South, and the surrounding south-of-the-river neighborhoods. The program is located at 1111 E Army Post Road, Des Moines, IA 50315. For the current curriculum, admission requirements, and start dates, call (515) 287-8700 or visit https://www.dmacc.edu/southridge/index.html.
How much does DMACC Southridge Center cost?
DMACC Southridge Center lists tuition for its certified nurse aide (cna) at $707.50. 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 DMACC Southridge Center at (515) 287-8700 for the current fee breakdown and any available scholarships or financial aid.
How long is the program at DMACC Southridge Center?
The certified nurse aide (cna) at DMACC Southridge Center is structured as 75 hours. Iowa requires 75 hours minimum of state-approved training, so this program meets or exceeds the state minimum. Contact the program at (515) 287-8700 for current cohort start dates and schedule options.
How do I apply or contact DMACC Southridge Center?
Call DMACC Southridge Center directly at (515) 287-8700 or visit https://www.dmacc.edu/southridge/index.html. The program is located at 1111 E Army Post Road, Des Moines, IA 50315. Ask about upcoming cohort start dates, application deadlines, background-check requirements, and any scholarships or financial-aid options before enrolling.
What Iowa CNA requirements should I know before enrolling at DMACC Southridge Center?
Before enrolling at DMACC Southridge Center, make sure you meet Iowa's minimum age (16), education requirements, and background-check rules. Iowa requires 75 hours minimum of state-approved training and uses TestMaster Universe/Headmaster (with Credentia available for the Remotely Proctored Knowledge Exam) for the competency exam, with most candidates reaching certification in 5-9 weeks from program start to Direct Care Worker Registry listing. See the full Iowa CNA requirements page for a complete checklist.
Are there other CNA programs near Des Moines?
Yes. In addition to DMACC Southridge Center in Des Moines, our directory includes CNA training programs in Ankeny, Cedar Rapids, Waterloo, Sioux City, Council Bluffs, and other Iowa cities. Comparing programs by location, schedule, and cost is the easiest way to find the best fit for your situation. Browse all Iowa CNA classes for the full list.
Other CNA Programs in Des Moines
DMACC Capitol Center
Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) · 75 hours · $707.50
DMACC Urban Campus
Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) · 75 hours · $707.50
Mercy College of Health Sciences
Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) · 3 weeks / 80 hours · $1,500
Broadlawns Medical Center TEACH/TECH Apprenticeship
Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) · Basic and Advanced CNA training (75/150 hours) · Free (paid apprenticeship)
Calvin Community
Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) · 75 hours