Thomas Reed, RN
June 23, 2025
CNA training programs at Alabama institutions teach future healthcare professionals to give fundamental care in medical facilities. The role of CNA involves assisting patients in daily activities like bathing and feeding while providing mobility support under nursing supervision. The nursing staff relies on CNAs to maintain patient comfort and safety by handling standard care responsibilities.
Huntsville, AL - Public 2-Year - drakestate.edu
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Drake State's CNA program stands out as a rapid six-week training pathway designed for aspiring healthcare professionals. Uniquely positioned as a hybrid learning experience, the program equips students with comprehensive patient care skills, emphasizing practical knowledge and professional development. By meeting OBRA requirements and preparing students for certification through rigorous written and clinical evaluations, the program provides a streamlined entry into healthcare. Students gain hands-on supervised experience supporting sick, injured, and disabled individuals, with flexible virtual and in-person components. As a historically Black college (HBCU), Drake State offers an accessible and supportive learning environment for students 16 and older seeking a focused healthcare career launch.
Enterprise, AL - Public 2-Year - escc.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Enterprise State Community College's CNA program delivers an intensive five-week healthcare training experience that efficiently prepares students for professional nursing assistant roles. Designed for quick entry into medical settings, the curriculum balances rigorous classroom instruction with essential clinical practice. Students learn comprehensive patient care techniques, vital sign monitoring, and interdisciplinary communication skills. The program's affordable $850 tuition and flexible evening scheduling make it accessible for aspiring healthcare professionals. Graduates are fully prepared to successfully complete the Alabama Nurse Aide competency exam, positioning them for immediate employment in hospitals, nursing facilities, and rehabilitation centers.
Bay Minette, AL - Public 2-Year - coastalalabama.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
At Coastal Alabama Community College, aspiring nursing assistants can access an efficient and affordable 107-hour comprehensive training program designed to launch healthcare careers. Students receive extensive hands-on clinical skills preparation meeting state OBRA certification standards. The curriculum strategically balances theoretical instruction with practical experience, equipping learners with essential competencies for long-term care environments. With a remarkably low total cost of $790, including textbooks, the program offers an accessible pathway into nursing assistance. Military-friendly and campus-based, this program provides structured learning that prepares students for immediate entry into healthcare settings, emphasizing patient care techniques, medical communication, and professional standards.
Wadley, AL - Public 2-Year - suscc.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Southern Union State Community College's Nursing Assistant/Medication Aide program offers a robust pathway into healthcare careers, providing comprehensive training that exceeds Alabama Department of Public Health standards. Students receive dynamic instruction across classroom, laboratory, and clinical settings, mastering essential patient care techniques and medication administration protocols. The flexible program accommodates both credit and non-credit learners, enabling diverse student populations to gain critical healthcare skills. Rigorous admission requirements, including a 2.0 GPA and comprehensive health screenings, ensure students are prepared for professional excellence. With multiple campus locations and certification exam preparation, graduates are strategically positioned for immediate employment in long-term care and acute healthcare environments.
Fully online CNA training programs do not exist in Alabama since clinical experience needs to be conducted in person. Schools throughout the state provide hybrid programs which combine distance learning with fixed in-person laboratory sessions and clinical practice at healthcare facilities. The hybrid model of education benefits students who need to manage work duties and family responsibilities. The theoretical part of the curriculum featuring lectures and reading assignments sometimes functions as an online component. Students must complete clinical requirements through supervised training at sites approved by the state.
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| J. F. Drake State Community and Technical College |
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| Enterprise State Community College |
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| Southern Union State Community College |
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| Eligibility Prerequisites | Must be at least 16, hold a high school diploma or GED, pass a criminal-history background check, complete required immunizations, and finish an ADPH-approved CNA or equivalent LPN/RN program |
|---|---|
| Certifying Board | Alabama Department of Public Health Nurse Aide Registry |
| Training Program Requirements | Complete a 75-hour state-approved course combining classroom instruction, lab practice, and at least 16 supervised clinical hours |
| Exam and Application Fees | No state registry fee, vendor fees typically range from $40–$55 for the written/oral exam and $45–$80 for the skills evaluation |
| Certification Exam | Pass both the NNAAP written/oral test and the skills evaluation within your program’s eligibility period |
| Registry Activation Time | Successful candidates are added to the Nurse Aide Registry within two business days of exam completion |
| Renewal Requirements | Maintain certification by completing eight hours of paid nursing-related work under RN or LPN supervision every 24 months |
| License by Endorsement | Active CNAs from other states transfer via employer-initiated verification without additional fees. |
The average annual salary for Certified nursing assistants working in Alabama ranges between $30,000 to $40,000 in the lower to mid-range. The initial salary for CNAs remains lower in rural facilities or smaller healthcare organizations but they can earn more money after gaining experience, obtaining additional certifications, and moving to hospital settings. The need for Certified nursing assistants remains high because of both population aging and the growing need for extended care services. The state of Alabama offers numerous CNA positions at hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living centers, and home health service providers.
| Salary & Career Outlook | Alabama | USA |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Annual CNA Salary | $31,950 | $62,340 |
| Avg Hourly Wage | $15.00 | $29.97 |
| 90th Percentile Salary | >$36,325 | $80,510 |
| Median Salary | $31,950 | $62,340 |
| 10th Percentile Salary | <$26,849 | $47,960 |
| Projected Job Growth (2022–2032) | ~4% | 3% |
| Annual Job Openings | NA | ~54,000 |
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Enterprise State Community College |
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| Coastal Alabama Community College |
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| J. F. Drake State Community and Technical College |
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The majority of Alabama CNAs decide to enhance their certification status through education and career development. CNA work experience develops essential clinical skills which create a path for LPN and RN licensure. Prior clinical experience of applicants makes them more desirable to nursing programs so becoming a CNA serves as an excellent initial step. Community colleges establish specific mobility programs and bridge curricula for current Certified Nursing Assistants who want to advance into higher nursing education levels. The support of employers for career progression includes educational tuition benefits and adaptable work schedules for nursing assistants who want to further their education. The attainment of medication aide certification gives CNAs increased responsibility in their work and better compensation opportunities. The training leads to nursing positions while providing entry-level employment for CNAs who want to advance their careers in nursing.
Additional Nursing Programs in Alabama
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