Press contact: Angela Try

JACKSONVILLE — Beginning in January 2026, Lincoln Land Community College in Jacksonville will offer the CNA to CMA Bridge program, designed to help certified nurse assistants (CNAs) advance in their careers and become certified medical assistants (CMAs).

Classes will be held from Jan. 26 through April 13 on Mondays and Wednesdays from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at LLCC-Jacksonville, 32 N. Central Park Plaza.

The program features comprehensive classroom instruction covering medical terminology, law and ethics, infection control, safety, phlebotomy, laboratory testing and more. In addition, students will complete a 60-hour clinical externship at one of LLCC’s partner health care facilities, applying their knowledge in a real-world setting. Externship options include April 20-May 8 or May 11-29, with typical hours from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

“We’re excited to offer the CNA to CMA Bridge program here at LLCC-Jacksonville,” said Keri Mason, director, LLCC-Jacksonville. “This course was designed to support CNAs who are ready to advance in their careers while balancing work, family or other responsibilities. The program’s structure will help students gain valuable skills and hands-on experience without putting their lives on hold. We’re proud to help our students grow into vital roles in our local medical community.”

After successful completion of the program, students will be eligible to sit for the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam through the National Healthcareer Association.

Attend a 30-minute information session on Nov. 19 to learn more about the bridge program. Sessions will be held at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. To register or for more information visit www.llcc.edu/cna-to-cma. Registration for spring 2026 classes is now open. To get started, contact Kaytlyn Crain at Kaytlyn.Crain@llcc.edu or 217-786-4514.