CNA Programs
Olivia Chen, NP
June 26, 2025
On this page
Top CNA Programs
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) programs offer foundational training for individuals seeking to begin a hands-on healthcare career, often serving as the first step into the nursing profession. These programs are specifically designed to prepare students to provide direct, compassionate care to patients in a variety of healthcare environments, including nursing homes, hospitals, assisted living facilities, and home health settings. Unlike longer nursing pathways, CNA programs are relatively short—typically lasting between 4 to 12 weeks—making them an accessible and fast-track option for those eager to enter the workforce. The curriculum focuses on core caregiving skills such as assisting with daily activities, monitoring vital signs, ensuring patient comfort, supporting mobility, and promoting hygiene and safety. Instruction includes both classroom-based learning and hands-on clinical practice under supervision. Upon completing a state-approved training program, graduates are required to pass a state competency exam, which includes both a written test and a practical skills assessment. Successful candidates are then added to their state’s nurse aide registry and officially certified to work as CNAs. This credential opens the door to immediate job opportunities and can also serve as a stepping stone toward more advanced roles in nursing and healthcare.
Choosing The Right Program
- State Approval and Accreditation
- Program Length and Schedule Options
- Tuition and Financial Aid Availability
- Clinical Training Opportunities
- Job Placement Support
- Pass Rates for Certification Exam
- Class Size and Instructor Experience
- Location and Commute
- Online or Hybrid Options
- Reputation and Reviews
2026 Top-Ranked CNA Programs
City Colleges of Chicago-Malcolm X College
Chicago, IL - Public 2-Year - ccc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Basic Nursing Assistant Training
Campus Based - Visit Website
Malcolm X College's Basic Nursing Assistant Training prepares healthcare professionals for entry-level Certified Nursing Assistant roles in just eight weeks. Students gain essential skills to work in diverse medical settings, with five annual sessions offering flexible scheduling. The program serves as a critical pathway to advanced nursing education and provides a foundational stepping stone for those seeking careers in healthcare.
- Eight-week comprehensive training
- Five annual program sessions
- Prerequisite for nursing degree
- Prepares Certified Nursing Assistants
- Healthcare industry entry-level certification
Certificate/Diploma - BNA Fundamentals and Clinical, Basic Certificate
Campus Based - Visit Website
The BNA Fundamentals and Clinical, Basic Certificate at City Colleges of Chicago-Malcolm X College prepares students for a rewarding career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). This program covers patient care basics, nursing discipline, and the CNA's role in healthcare teams. Graduates must pass the Illinois state exam to certify. Ideal for those seeking entry into healthcare, offering hands-on training in classroom, lab, and clinical settings. Admissions require eligible English and Math levels, medical exam docs, and official transcripts.
- IDPH approved program.
- Prepares for CNA certification.
- Hands-on clinical training.
- 8 credit hours total.
- State exam required post-completion.
- Selective admissions process.
- English and Math prerequisites.
- Medical examination documentation needed.
- Official transcripts required.
- Classroom, lab, and clinical settings.
Ultimate Medical Academy
Clearwater, FL - Private 2-year - ultimatemedical.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant
Campus Based - Visit Website
Kickstart a rewarding healthcare career with Ultimate Medical Academy's fast-tracked Nursing Assistant Diploma program. In just two months, students gain comprehensive skills to provide compassionate patient care across diverse medical settings. The blended learning approach combines online coursework with hands-on training, including a 45-hour supervised externship. Graduates are prepared to sit for the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) exam, with promising job prospects in hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home health agencies. Employment growth projections indicate strong opportunities in this critical healthcare role.
- 2-month diploma program
- 45-hour on-site externship
- Certification exam preparation
- Blended online and campus learning
- Multiple start dates annually
- Maximum 25-student classrooms
- Career support services
- 6 total program credits
Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College
Perkinston, MS - Public 2-Year - mgccc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nursing Assistant
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College offers a comprehensive Certified Nursing Assistant hybrid program preparing students for critical healthcare roles. This state-approved non-credit training equips participants to become certified nursing assistants through rigorous online theory and hands-on clinical experiences. With just 100 total training hours and a $700 investment, students can launch a promising healthcare career with opportunities in nursing homes, home health, and community clinics.
- Hybrid non-credit program
- 84 hours online/campus training
- 16 hours clinical training
- State-approved certification
- $700 total program cost
- Prepares for national exam
- Multiple healthcare employment paths
Oakton College
Des Plaines, IL - Public 2-Year - oakton.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Basic Nurse Assistant Training
Campus Based - Visit Website
Oakton College's Basic Nurse Assistant Training (BNAT) prepares students for an in-demand healthcare career. This eight-credit certificate program equips learners with essential skills for providing patient care in hospitals, nursing facilities, and home health settings. Students gain hands-on clinical experience and can complete the program in one semester, with opportunities to interview with multiple employers upon graduation.
- Eight-credit certificate program
- IDPH approved training
- Hands-on clinical experiences
- Career placement support
- Multiple healthcare work settings
Dallas College
Dallas, TX - Public 4-Year - dallascollege.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse's Aide – Allied Health (Continuing Education)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Dallas College's Certified Nurse's Aide program provides a strategic entry point into the healthcare industry, addressing the critical nursing shortage with comprehensive training. Students learn essential patient care skills, infection control principles, and communication techniques across various healthcare settings like clinics, hospitals, and long-term care facilities. The program follows Texas Department of Aging and Accessibility Services standards and prepares students for the state certification exam, ensuring graduates are workforce-ready with in-demand healthcare skills.
- High-demand healthcare career
- State certification exam preparation
- Multiple healthcare work settings
- Supervised clinical training
- Skills-focused curriculum
Johnson County Community College
Overland Park, KS - Public 2-Year - jccc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) program at Johnson County Community College offers a comprehensive 96-hour course preparing students for critical healthcare roles. Students learn essential patient care skills including vital sign monitoring, patient transfer techniques, and infection control. The hybrid program combines online coursework with in-person labs and clinical training. With high employment demand projected by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, graduates can expect promising career opportunities in various healthcare settings. The program provides flexible scheduling options and potential tuition assistance through the Kansas Promise Scholarship.
- 96-hour comprehensive course
- Hybrid learning format
- Multiple class schedule options
- Kansas CNA test eligibility
- Potential scholarship funding
- Healthcare career pathway
- In-demand profession
- Clinical skills training
- Location: JCCC Olathe Health Center
Frontier Community College
Fairfield, IL - Public 2-Year - iecc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Basic Nurse Assistant Training Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
Frontier Community College offers a comprehensive Basic Nurse Assistant Training Program designed to launch careers in healthcare. Students gain essential skills to become certified nursing assistants, addressing critical healthcare workforce needs. The program provides hands-on training, preparing students for direct patient care roles in hospitals, nursing homes, and medical facilities.
- Campus-based nursing program
- Part of IECC nursing network
- Accredited nursing education
- Multiple campus location options
- Professional nurse pathway
Central Piedmont Community College
Charlotte, NC - Public 2-Year - cpcc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Visit Website
Central Piedmont's Nurse Aide Certificate prepares students for a vital healthcare career supporting patients across all age groups. The comprehensive curriculum covers essential skills like personal care, vital signs monitoring, communication, and medical safety. Graduates become eligible for the Nursing Aide I registry, opening doors to employment in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and medical offices. Admission requires high school credentials, background checks, and immunization documentation. Additional costs include uniforms, protective equipment, and medical screenings.
- Prepare for Nursing Aide I registry
- Multiple healthcare employment settings
- Comprehensive patient care skills
- Requires background check
- Minimum age 18 for clinicals
Central New Mexico Community College
Albuquerque, NM - Public 2-Year - cnm.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Nursing Assistant certificate at CNM offers a fast-track pathway into healthcare, enabling students to complete the program in just one semester. Designed for aspiring patient care professionals, this program prepares students to work in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and rehabilitation centers. Competitive tuition and financial aid options make this certification accessible and affordable for career-driven individuals.
- One semester completion time
- State certification exam offered
- Works closely with nursing staff
- Multiple healthcare settings available
- Faculty-led exam preparation
- Corequisite course flexibility
- Financial aid support
- Career advancement potential
Horry-Georgetown Technical College
Conway, SC - Public 2-Year - hgtc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant
Campus Based - Visit Website
Jumpstart a rewarding healthcare career with this comprehensive Nursing Assistant certificate program. Students gain critical skills to provide quality patient care across various medical settings. The concise 9-credit curriculum prepares graduates to take the state certification exam, opening doors to immediate employment in hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics.
- 9 total credit hours
- State certification preparation
- Multiple campus locations
- Minimum age 18 required
- CPR certification needed
- Healthcare settings employment
- Minimum 'C' grade requirement
Who Is a CNA Program For?
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Compassionate Caregivers
Ideal for those who enjoy helping others with daily activities and providing emotional support. -
Career Starters or Explorers
Perfect for individuals exploring healthcare careers without committing to long-term schooling. -
Fast-Track Job Seekers
CNA programs offer one of the quickest paths into the healthcare workforce. -
Detail-Oriented Workers
CNAs must observe patients closely and report changes accurately, making this a good fit for attentive individuals. -
Team Players
CNAs work under supervision, often as part of a larger healthcare team, and need strong communication skills. -
Non-Traditional Students
Programs often cater to adult learners, offering evening or weekend classes for flexibility.
Find CNA Programs by State
Types of Institutions Offering CNA Programs
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Community Colleges
Offer affordable, state-approved CNA training with both classroom and lab instruction.
-
Technical and Vocational Schools
Provide focused, fast-paced programs that prepare students for the CNA exam. -
Career Institutes
Often feature flexible schedules and targeted training for adult learners or career changers.
-
Hospital-Based Programs
Deliver hands-on training in real clinical environments with direct patient care experience. -
Private Nursing Schools
May offer smaller class sizes and fast-track options, often at a higher tuition cost. -
Adult Education Centers
Provide accessible training for working adults, often with evening or part-time schedules.
Program Length and Timeline
Academic Schedule and Clinical Rotation
CNA programs are short and intensive, combining classroom lessons with hands-on skills training. Academic instruction covers basic patient care, safety, infection control, and communication. Clinicals usually take place in nursing homes or hospitals, giving students real-world experience assisting with bathing, feeding, mobility, and vital signs under supervision. Clinical hours are typically required and scheduled after the initial classroom portion is complete.
| Attendance Type | Regular | Accelarated | extended |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Time | 4 - 8 weeks | 2 - 4 weeks | 10 - 12 weeks |
| Part Time | 8 - 12 weeks | 5 - 6 weeks | 12 - 16 weeks |
Curriculum and Training
CNA programs focus on essential caregiving skills and foundational knowledge. Core subjects include basic nursing care, anatomy and physiology, infection control, nutrition, communication, and patient rights. Clinical training usually consists of 16 to 40 hours (depending on state rules) in approved healthcare facilities. Students learn to assist with bathing, feeding, mobility, taking vitals, and supporting patients’ daily needs—all under direct supervision.
Online CNA Program Availability
CNA programs are typically in-person, but some schools offer hybrid formats with online instruction for theory-based courses. While students can complete lectures and assignments online, clinical skills must be practiced in person at an approved facility. Virtual simulation tools may supplement learning, but they do not replace the state-required hands-on experience. To participate in hybrid options, students need a reliable internet connection, a capable device, and basic tech literacy.
Admission Requirements
Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or GED (varies by state)
- Minimum age of 16 to 18
- Negative TB test and immunization records
- Background check and drug screening
- CPR or BLS certification (in some programs)
- Entrance interview or orientation session
Admission Tips
- Complete CPR/BLS Certification Early
- Volunteer in Healthcare Settings
- Maintain a Clean Background Record
- Write a Strong Personal Statement
- Secure Solid References
- Show Professionalism in Interviews
Financial Aid & Funding Options
- Federal Financial Aid (FAFSA)
- State Grants and Workforce Development Programs
- Scholarships from Schools or Healthcare Organizations
- Employer Sponsorship or Tuition Reimbursement
- Payment Plans Offered by the School
- Military Education Benefits
- Nonprofit or Community-Based Grants
- Apprenticeship or Earn-While-You-Learn Programs
- WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) Funding
- Private Student Loans (if available for short programs)
CNA Certifications
After completing a CNA program, students must pass a state-approved CNA competency exam, which includes a written portion and a hands-on skills test. Certification is granted by the state’s nurse aide registry, and each state may have different renewal and continuing education requirements. Some states also require fingerprinting or additional testing. CNAs must stay up to date on training and often complete continuing education units (CEUs) to maintain active status.
Career Paths for CNAs
- Certified Medication Aide (CMA)
- Home Health Aide (HHA)
- Restorative Nursing Assistant (RNA)
- Patient Care Technician (PCT)
- Medical Assistant (MA)
- Healthcare Administration or Scheduling
- Specialized CNA Roles
- Nursing Educator Assistant
Salary Expectations and Job Outlook
The average national salary for CNAs is around $38,000 per year, with hourly wages averaging $18–$20. Wages vary by state, with CNAs in California, Alaska, and New York earning higher-than-average pay. Long-term care facilities and hospitals tend to be the top employers, but home health and government agencies may offer higher compensation. The job outlook remains strong, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 4–5% increase in employment through 2033, driven by the aging population and growing demand for long-term care support.
Advancement Opportunities
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CNA to LPN/LVN Bridge Programs
A natural next step for CNAs looking to increase responsibilities and pay. -
Specialized Certifications
CNAs can gain expertise in areas like dementia care, hospice, or restorative care. -
Medication Aide Roles
Some states allow CNAs to train as Certified Medication Aides (CMAs) for added duties. -
Unit Coordinator or Administrative Roles
Experience can lead to clerical or patient-flow coordinator positions in hospitals. -
Nursing School Preparation
CNA experience is a strong foundation for pursuing RN or BSN programs in the future.