Community Health Worker Training Program
The Community Health Worker Training Program at The Ohio State University College of Nursing prepares you to be a trusted advocate, bridge-builder, connector, educator and motivator in your neighborhood who helps residents access the health and social services they need to live better, healthier lives. Upon graduation, you will have met all requirements to receive your certification as a community health worker through the Ohio Board of Nursing.
Our 14-week program consists of a hybrid learning model that includes 100 hours of online classroom learning and 130 hours of in-person, on-site practicum training.
You and your classmates will meet live online with an instructor three times a week in the evenings, and we will work with you to find a local healthcare organization or social service agency that aligns with your passion for your on-site practicum.
Thank you for your interest in the Community Health Worker Training Program. If you are a prospective student, we highly recommend that you attend an information session to help with the application process and to answer questions you may have about the program.
View the video below to see an overview of the Community Health Worker Training Program.
2026 Program Schedule
Classes meet on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 5-8 p.m.
Cohort 33 (Winter)
- Orientation: January 27, 2026
- First day of classes: February 10, 2026
Cohort 34 (Summer)
- Orientation: June 23, 2026
- First day of classes: July 14, 2026
Admission Criteria
You must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent and a desire to serve others.
Ohio State academic programs are designed to prepare students to apply for applicable licensure or certification in Ohio. If you plan to pursue licensure or certification in a state other than Ohio, please review state educational requirements for licensure and certification and state licensing board contact information at go.osu.edu/onground.
Program Cost
Program Cost: $3,250 (includes all required program materials, medical supplies, CPR training and background check costs)
Full program cost coverage may be available to you!
Qualifications:
- Franklin County Residents:
- Below 200% poverty; OR
- Receive Franklin County Department of Job and Family Services benefits
- Ohio Residents:
- Adults over the age of 18, who are eligible to work in the United States of America and, if applicable, registered for Selective Service
- Dislocated workers who have lost their job through no fault of their own
- Young people aged 14-24 who meet certain qualifications – list of qualifications
- Click here to learn more about support within your county
Many employers offer program cost assistance! We would love to talk with your employer to discuss opportunities further.
For more information, please contact CON-CHWProgram@osu.edu.
CHW Spotlight
Check out our newsletter featuring highlights of our recent successful CHW conference.
