Thomas Reed, RN
June 24, 2025
Short training programs called CNA programs prepare students to become Certified Nursing Assistants who function as essential healthcare staff for delivering fundamental patient care. The healthcare team in West Virginia heavily relies on Certified Nursing Assistants to assist nurses in patient care while supporting multiple healthcare settings.
Wheeling, WV - Public 2-Year - wvncc.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
West Virginia Northern Community College offers a 5-week Certified Nurse Assistant Training program on its Weirton Campus, combining 65 hours of classroom learning with 55 hours of clinical experience. This intensive schedule runs Tuesday through Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., preparing students for the state certification exam. At a total cost of $1,999, which includes textbooks and exam fees, financial aid is available for eligible candidates. The program serves as an entry point to healthcare careers, allowing graduates to work under RN supervision and providing a foundation for advanced roles like Patient Care Technician.
Beaver, WV - Public 2-Year - newriver.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
New River Community and Technical College offers a six-week Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program with no tuition cost, making it highly accessible. Training combines in-person lectures, hands-on lab work, and clinical experiences to build essential patient care skills. This intensive course prepares students thoroughly for the certification exam, supporting a direct entry into healthcare careers. Open to all community members, it emphasizes practical knowledge and professional readiness without financial barriers.
Online CNA training programs are unavailable for West Virginia because the program requires hands-on training to fulfill state regulations. Every student enrolled in CNA training programs must complete supervised clinical hours in person according to state regulations. The current education model includes both online learning and traditional training methods. Students access theory and classroom content through online modules before participating in in-person clinical practice and skills labs. The blended format enables students who need to balance work or family responsibilities to choose from flexible scheduling options that include evening and weekend sessions.
School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
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West Virginia Northern Community College |
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New River Community and Technical College |
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Eligibility Prerequisites | Complete state-approved nurse aide training within 24 months, clear fingerprint/background check, and present photo ID/SSN |
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Certifying Board | West Virginia DHHR Office of Health Facility Licensure & Certification – Nurse Aide Registry |
Training Program Requirements | 120 total hours, including at least 55 supervised clinical hours |
Fees | Exam fees vary by component (combined written + skills $140, combined oral + skills $180, individual parts priced separately) |
Certification Exam | Pass both the knowledge test and five-skill practicum within three attempts over a 24-month period |
Registry Activation Time | Added to the registry within two business days of passing both exams |
Renewal Requirements | Biennial renewal with a $60 fee and verification of eight hours of paid nurse-aide work under RN supervision |
License by Endorsement | Out-of-state CNAs with active, unencumbered certification apply via reciprocity with proof of credential, no retesting required |
The average hourly wage for Certified Nursing Assistants in West Virginia reaches $16 which translates to annual compensation of $33,000. The starting wage for beginner CNAs ranges between $13 and $14 per hour but experienced CNAs or those working in larger hospitals can earn up to $18 per hour. The income level of nursing aides is slightly higher in metropolitan areas compared to rural settings although the average pay remains consistent. The employment prospects for Certified Nursing Assistants in West Virginia remain favorable with no indication of decline. The healthcare facilities throughout West Virginia including nursing homes, assisted living centers, home health agencies, and hospitals persistently recruit nurse aides because of the state’s aging population.
Salary & Career Outlook | West Virginia | USA |
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Avg Annual CNA Salary | $33,100 | $62,340 |
Avg Hourly Wage | $15.92 | $29.97 |
90th Percentile Salary | >$42,000 | $80,510 |
Median Salary | $33,100 | $62,340 |
10th Percentile Salary | <$30,020 | $47,960 |
Projected Job Growth (2022–2032) | ~4% | 3% |
Annual Job Openings | ~2,600 | ~54,000 |
Data from Salary.com and Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
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West Virginia Northern Community College |
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New River Community and Technical College |
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A CNA career serves as a stepping stone for future advancement in nursing fields. The majority of West Virginia CNAs pursue nursing education to become LPNs before advancing to RNs. CNA certification provides essential practical experience which makes nursing students more competitive for admission to programs that require or prefer it. Most CNAs in West Virginia complete their LPN education during one year before advancing to RN programs to become registered nurses. The goals of CNA staff receive support from their employers because numerous healthcare organizations provide tuition reimbursement programs alongside flexible work arrangements for nursing degree-seeking CNAs. The CNA certification provides an initial step for nursing career development which allows professionals to advance toward better-paying roles with higher positions.
Additional Nursing Programs in West Virginia
Campus Based - Website
Campus Based - Website