Bucks’ Nurse Aide Training program provides students with the opportunity to work in high-demand jobs by taking a 12-week course that is available year-round.

The program is a 130-hour, three month program that is designed to prepare students for employment in long-term care agencies by combining classroom and clinical work.

The clinical work will take place at one of the approved long-term care facilities located in Bucks County.

Upon completion of the program, students can take the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam and can be enrolled in the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry, if they receive a passing grade.

“The Nurse Aide program is a non-credit program that we offer here at the college,” said Denise McCardle-Ladden, assistant director of the Allied Health Nurse Aide Training Program.

“After just 12 weeks of training, two days a week, our graduates are eligible to sit for an exam given through the American Red Cross. When they successfully complete that, then they are on the statewide registry, which they have to be in order to work in long term care or in nursing homes as a nursing assistant,” said McCardle-Ladden.

The program is offered in the spring, summer and fall semesters and is available at all three campuses. It has been in the college now for at least ten years.

“The job opportunities for nursing assistants are really wide open. I get calls every week from clinical agencies asking if we have anyone who’s looking for a job. They need nurse aides, so it is in high demand,” said McCardle-Ladden.

Students will have an opportunity to talk to employers hiring nurse aides at the Job Fair on April 22, in the Linksz Pavilion at the Newtown Campus from 11:30 a.m.- 1 p.m.

The cost for the 12-week course is $959. Students that wish to take the American Red Cross exam will have to pay an additional $102.

However, these charges can be reimbursed if, within 12 months of completing the program, graduates become employed by a Medicare/Medicaid approved nursing care facility.

“This is another benefit for the student . . . It is a way for students to supplement their income while working towards their college degree,” said McCardle-Ladden.

To schedule a registration appointment, contact the Nurse Aide Training Program at 215-968-8025 (press option #3) or email [email protected].