The healthcare industry always needs qualified nursing assistants to help patients care for their needs. If you’re looking into becoming a CNA soon then you’ve come to the right place. We’ve put together a list of locations offering CNA classes in Atlanta so you can get certified and begin your work in the healthcare world ASAP.
Many CNA programs are available in Atlanta for those seeking their certification and a chance to work in the healthcare field. All courses will require some portion of live, in-person learning, but you can find hybrid online CNA classes in Atlanta and the surrounding suburbs that allow students the convenience of taking some of their required courses virtually! While it can be difficult to find free CNA classes near Atlanta, some programs offer scholarships or tuition reimbursement if you get hired by the organization that trains you.
Courses are typically taught at community colleges or career centers with hospitals and nursing homes often hosting their own programs as well, depending upon the needs within these areas. Once coursework and clinical work have been completed, you’ll need to pass an exam on each. After passing the written test and skills exam, you can earn your state certification, be added to the Georgia nursing registry, and begin working as a licensed CNA in Atlanta.
Ready to get started on your journey? Check out some hybrid online CNA courses.
The Best CNA Classes in Atlanta
Want some more detail on top Atlanta CNA programs? Check out the following:
Covenant CNA School
The CNA program at Covenant CNA School in Atlanta is a comprehensive training program that prepares students to become certified nursing assistants. The program covers topics such as patient health care, vital signs, proper body mechanics, cleanliness skills, and introduction to body systems. The program also offers CPR classes and medication aide training for those who want to advance their skills.
To earn your CNA license at Covenant CNA School, you need to complete the following steps:
- Enroll in one of the CNA classes offered by the school. You can choose from day, evening, or weekend classes depending on your schedule. The tuition fee is $750 and the duration of the course is 4 to 6 weeks.
- Pass the written and skills exams administered by the school. The exams are based on the Georgia Nurse Aide Competency Exam (NACE) standards. The exam fee is $130 and is payable to Credentia.
- Apply for state certification through the Georgia Medical Care Foundation (GMCF). You need to submit your application form, proof of training completion, exam results, and a $25 fee. You will receive your license within 10 business days after your application is approved.
For more information about the CNA program and the licensing process, you can visit the school’s website or call them at (770) 315-7430.
| Program Information | Details |
| Cost | $750 (tuition) + $130 (exam) + $25 (certification) = $905 (total) |
| Program Duration | 4 to 6 weeks |
| Class Schedules | Day, evening, or weekend classes available |
| Prerequisites | High school diploma or GED, criminal background check, TB test, physical exam, and immunization records |
| Location | 1 Baltimore Place NW Suite 401 Atlanta, GA 30308 |
| Phone | (770) 315-7430 |
| Website | https://covenantcna.com/ |
| Online CNA Classes? | No |
| Free CNA Classes? | No |
Health Connect Career Center
The CNA program at Health Connect Career Center in Atlanta is a Georgia state-approved, certified nurse aide training program that trains and prepares students for entry-level jobs in the medical field as CNAs. The program covers topics such as patient care, infection control, safety and emergency procedures, communication and interpersonal skills, and basic nursing skills. The program also offers CPR certification and American Red Cross online blended learning.
To earn your CNA license at Health Connect Career Center, you need to complete the following steps:
- Enroll in a weekday, evening, or weekend CNA program offered by HCCC. The non-refundable registration fee is $150 and the course fee is $1100 for in-person training or $1300 for blended online CNA classes.
- Pass the written and skills exams administered by the school. The exams are based on the Georgia Nurse Aide Competency Exam (NACE) standards. The exam fee is included in the course fee.
- Apply for state certification through the Georgia Medical Care Foundation (GMCF). You need to submit your application form, proof of training completion, exam results, and a $25 fee. You will receive your license within 10 business days after your application is approved.
For more information about the CNA program and the licensing process, you can visit the school’s website or call them at (470) 472-42224.
| Program Information | Details |
| Cost | $150 (registration) + $1100 (in-person course) or $1300 (online course) = $1250 or $1450 (total) |
| Program Duration | 4 to 5 weeks |
| Class Schedules | Weekday, evening, or weekend classes available |
| Prerequisites | High school diploma or GED, criminal background check, TB test, physical exam, and immunization records |
| Location | 1755 The Exchange SE Suite 375 Atlanta, GA 30339 |
| Phone | (470) 472-4222 |
| Website | https://www.healthconnectcareer.com/ |
| Online CNA Classes? | Yes |
| Free CNA Classes? | No |
| CNA Program Name | Address | City | Zip Code | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atlanta Technical College | 1560 Metropolitan Parkway Sw | Atlanta | 30310 | (404) 225-4420 |
| Cedar Grove High School | 3075 Alton Road | Chamblee | 30294 | (678) 676-6502 |
| Covenant CNA School | 1300 Joseph E Boone Blvd Nw City Of Refuge | Atlanta | 30314 | (770) 315-8412 |
| Dekalb Hs Of Technology North At Cross Keys | 1626 North Druid Hills Rd Ne | Atlanta | 30319 | (678) 874-6236 |
| Health Connect Career Center, LLC | 3300 Buckeye Rd Suite 500 | Atlanta | 30341 | (404) 315-6582 |
| Metropolitan Career School | 1003 Virginia Ave Ste 204 | Atlanta | 30354 | (404) 549-6618 |
| Mullins Nurse Aide Academy, LLC | 1868 Washington Road Ste B | Forest Park | 30344 | (404) 207-3436 |
| Pruitt Health West Atlanta | 2645 Whiting Street N.W. | Atlanta | 30318 | (404) 799-9267 |
| Pruitt Health‐Greenville | 1000 Briarcliff Road | Atlanta | 30306 | (706) 672-4241 |
| Riverside Health & Rehabilitation | 101 Old Talbotton Road | Thomaston | 30286 | (234) 567-8912 |
| Southern Crescent Tech College ‐ Thomaston | 1533 Hwy 19 South | Thomaston | 30286 | (706) 646-6184 |
| Warren Technical School | 3075 Alton Road | Chamblee | 30294 | (678) 676-6502 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do CNA classes in Atlanta cost?
Becoming a CNA in Atlanta can be very affordable. Some programs can cost less than $1,000 and that’s even if you take into account additional fees on top of tuition such as uniforms, books, and registration fees. On the other hand, some programs may cost $2,000 or more. It all depends on the provider, the length of the course, how the classes are structured, job placement options, and more. Make sure to ask about everything before committing yourself to a program to find the right program for you and your schedule.
What are the requirements for becoming a CNA in Atlanta?
Becoming a CNA in Georgia involves fulfilling several prerequisites. First and foremost, you must be at least 18 years old and possess a high school diploma or a GED equivalent. Additionally, you’ll need to successfully complete a state-approved CNA program, encompassing a minimum of 85 hours of educational training and hands-on clinical experience within a nursing home setting. Subsequently, passing the Georgia certification exam is mandatory. To ensure your suitability for the role, you must also clear a criminal background check and undergo a drug test as part of the application process. These steps collectively pave the way for your journey toward a rewarding career as a Certified Nursing Assistant in Georgia.
There are six main routes to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Georgia, according to ChooseCNA.org1. These routes are:
- New Candidates: One way to become a CNA in Georgia is by successfully completing an in-state and state-approved CNA program. From the date you finish your CNA classes, you will have one full year to take and pass the NNAAP exam.
- RN and LPN Candidates: This route is for those who are currently licensed as an RN or an LPN in the U.S. From the time your application is received, you will have one year to complete the NNAAP exam.
- Out-of-State Trained CNA: This route is for CNAs who have completed their training outside of Georgia.
- Out-of-State Trained CNA with Lapsed Certification: This route is for CNAs who have completed their training outside of Georgia and whose certification has lapsed.
- Georgia-Expired Registration: This route is for CNAs whose registration has expired in Georgia.
- Reciprocity: This route is for CNAs who are currently registered in another state and wish to transfer their certification to Georgia.
Each path is unique, so it’s important to carefully read the information and decide which one is right for you.
Can you take online CNA classes in Atlanta?
Some programs do allow blended online CNA classes, such as Health Connect Career Center. This allows you to take some of the courses in-person. However, programs will require you to complete in-person clinical training to learn the necessary techniques and skills required to work with patients safely.
Refer to this page on the best online CNA classes in Atlanta for a complete overview of training providers who offer online or hybrid CNA classes in the area.
How much do CNAs make in Atlanta?
Based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), CNAs in Atlanta can expect an average hourly wage of approximately $17.12, equating to an annual salary of around $35,610. In Georgia as a whole, the average hourly wage is slightly lower at $15.80, with an annual salary of about $32,850. Comparatively, the national average hourly wage for CNAs across the United States is $17.41, resulting in an annual salary of roughly $36,220.
| Location | Atlanta | Georgia | U.S. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Employed | 20,820 | 40,230 | 1,310,090 |
| Average Hourly Wage | $17.12 | $15.80 | $17.41 |
| Average Salary | $35,610 | $32,850 | $36,220 |
| Hourly Wage 10th Percentile | $12.54 | $11.22 | $13.48 |
| Hourly Wage 25th Percentile | $13.60 | $13.14 | $14.79 |
| Hourly Wage 50th Percentile | $15.30 | $14.35 | $17.19 |
| Hourly Wage 75th Percentile | $17.63 | $17.22 | $18.87 |
| Hourly Wage 90th Percentile | $23.35 | $20.64 | $22.09 |
| Salary 10th Percentile | $26,090 | $23,340 | $28,030 |
| Salary 25th Percentile | $28,290 | $27,340 | $30,770 |
| Salary 50th Percentile | $31,830 | $29,850 | $35,760 |
| Salary 75th Percentile | $36,670 | $35,810 | $39,260 |
| Salary 90th Percentile | $48,570 | $42,920 | $45,940 |
What is the career outlook for CNAs?
CNAs play a pivotal role in the healthcare sector, particularly as the demand for healthcare services continues to rise. This growth is driven by an aging population and an increased need for various healthcare facilities. CNAs assist patients with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and mobility, providing essential support to medical professionals. This role serves as an entry point into the healthcare field, offering potential for career advancement, such as pursuing licenses as practical nurses or registered nurses.
The expanding elderly population contributes to the demand for CNAs in settings like nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home care. CNAs have the opportunity to work in diverse healthcare environments, from hospitals to rehabilitation centers, gaining valuable experiences along the way. However, it’s important to recognize that the role can be physically and emotionally demanding, as CNAs often care for patients with complex medical needs, requiring both empathy and compassion.
Where can I find free CNA classes in Atlanta?
Unfortunately, finding free training as a CNA can be very difficult. However, some programs offer various forms of financial aid, scholarships, and grants. You may also want to contact employers who are looking to hire CNAs and ask about tuition reimbursement programs. Some employers will sponsor your school payments, essentially getting you free CNA courses, in exchange for signing a contract to work for them for a set period of time after you’ve earned your CNA license.
Additional information
The following links and information may also prove helpful in your search for a CNA training program in Atlanta or further licensing information for the state of Georgia.
- Georgia Nurse Aide Registry. The state website with all pertinent information and links for reciprocity forms, complaints, renewals, and more.
- Nurse Aide search. Look up the license status for current CNAs in Georgia.
- How much do CNAs make? A comprehensive guide on CNA salary data.