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CNA Classes in North Carolina

North Carolina is the 9th most populous of the 50 United States, and the largest banking center in the nation after New York City. That means that healthcare providers are constantly in high demand, and Certified Nursing Assistants, or CNAs, are an essential part of a successful healthcare system. As a state that has one of the highest CNA employment rates per metropolitan area and a total of 15 metropolitan centers, the time is right to be a part of the community that helps the population remain healthy. Additionally, CNAs in North Carolina can make up to $38,000 in the highest paying positions.  If you’re interested in earning your CNA license in NC, this site will provide you with helpful information.

Before CNAs can be employed in North Carolina state-licensed facilities, they need to obtain certification. Luckily, this is a process that is relatively quick and painless, getting you ready to work as quickly as possible.

Online CNA Classes in North Carolina

More and more CNA programs in North Carolina are offering online CNA classes, which reflects the evolving educational landscape and the growing demand for accessible learning options. This shift acknowledges the diverse needs of individuals seeking a CNA career and the benefits that online learning brings to the table. By embracing technology, these programs are enabling aspiring CNAs to gain valuable skills and knowledge while maintaining their personal and professional commitments. This trend is reshaping how healthcare education is delivered, providing a pathway for North Carolina residents to embark on a rewarding and impactful career in the healthcare sector.

Advantages of Online CNA Classes 

  1. Flexibility: Fit studying around your schedule.
  2. Accessibility: Learn from anywhere in North Carolina.
  3. Cost-Effective: Save on commuting and potential financial aid.
  4. Self-Paced Learning: Learn at your own speed.
  5. Personalized Environment: Tailor your learning space.
  6. Diverse Resources: Interactive materials enhance understanding.
  7. Real-World Application: Blend online theory with practical experience.
  8. Time-Efficiency: Save time on commuting.
  9. Supportive Community: Engage with peers and instructors online.
  10. Career Advancement: Quickly enter the healthcare field.

Carolinas College of Health Sciences

Carolinas College offers online CNA classes they refer to as their Nurse Aide I program. The program equips students with fundamental nursing skills in a structured healthcare environment, overseen by registered nurses. The program offers great flexibility through online classes and accommodates various schedules with in-person labs and clinical education on weekends or evenings. Successful completion leads to certification as a nursing assistant (CNA), a profession in high demand in North Carolina.

Program Details:

  • Cost: Unclear – contact program for details.
  • Duration: 2-3 months.
  • Schedule: Choose weekend or evening options for labs and clinical education.
  • Prerequisites: High school transcripts (or equivalent), computer, internet access, criminal background check.
  • Certification: Graduates are eligible for the national certifying examination offered at Carolinas College.

Key Points:

  • Flexible online asynchronous study combined with in-person labs.
  • Rapid program completion and credentialing in a few months.
  • Financial aid, educational assistance, and scholarships available.
  • Commitment to diversity through the Todd and Janelle Collins Nurse Aide Scholars Program.

Application Requirements:

  • Online application submission.
  • Proof of education (high school diploma, transcripts).
  • Computer and internet access.
  • Successful criminal background check.

Contact Information:

Fast Track Career Prep – Nurse Aide I Hybrid Course

Fast Track Career Prep introduces an accelerated Nurse Aide I Hybrid Course, presenting an efficient pathway to become a certified nursing assistant (CNA). This program delivers fundamental nursing skills for compassionate patient care through online instruction and in-person labs and clinicals. Completing the program in just 5 weeks, graduates enjoy swift entry into the healthcare field. The curriculum covers essential tasks, diagnostic support, charting, and more, with CNAs being vital in various healthcare settings.

Program Highlights:

  • Duration: 5 weeks.
  • Schedule: 2 weeks of online classes (Monday-Friday) and 5 consecutive weekends for labs and clinicals (Saturday & Sunday, 8am-4:30pm on-site).
  • Curriculum: 136hr State Approved Program, including 47 lab hours & 32 clinical hours.
  • Certification: Successful graduates are eligible for the North Carolina NNAAP exam.
  • Additional Requirements: Criminal background check, drug test, malpractice insurance purchase, material kit purchase, uniform, textbook.

Price Comparison:

  • Fast Track Price: $620.00 (Tuition, Registration Fee, Malpractice Insurance, Material Kit).
  • Competition Price: $523-$618 (Tuition, Background Check/Drug Test, Malpractice Insurance, Blood Pressure Cuff/Stethoscope, Textbook, Uniforms).

Contact Information:

Wake Tech Nurse Aide Programs – Building Foundations in Healthcare

Wake Tech’s Nurse Aide programs, also known as Certified Nursing Assistant programs, offer comprehensive training in essential nursing skills within healthcare settings, approved by the North Carolina Division of Health Service Regulation. Here’s an overview of the offerings:

Program Locations:

  • Perry Health Sciences Campus, Raleigh, NC 27610
  • Public Safety Education Campus, Raleigh, NC 27603
  • Scott Northern Wake Campus, Raleigh, NC 27616

Course Format: Nurse Aide courses primarily involve in-person classes. While some courses may have an online component, campus attendance remains mandatory.

Open Lab Schedule: Open lab sessions are accessible at Scott Northern Wake Campus (Building E, Room 135), exclusive to Wake Tech Nurse Aide students. Verification through a Wake Tech ID is required.

  • Monday – Thursday: 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. (Instructor usually available; self-practice if not.)
  • Monday – Thursday: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. (Lab open if instructor present; call to verify.)

Financial Assistance: The Propel program at Wake Tech offers scholarships covering registration, fees, books, supplies, and credentialing exams. Propel scholarship applications reopen on October 1. Additionally, scholarships related to the Nurse Aide program and job information at healthcare facilities are available.

Questions and Contact: For more information, inquiries, or registration, reach out via email: [email protected] or phone: 919-747-0120.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • How to Register: Register online or visit the Nurse Aide Offices in person. Call 919-747-0120 ahead to confirm assistance availability.
  • Prerequisites: No prerequisites, but you must be at least 16½ years old by the first day of class.

Professional Licensure: Wake Tech’s programs designed for professional licensure align with North Carolina or national certifications. For those seeking licensure outside of North Carolina post-program, refer to the Professional Licensure section on the college’s distance education authorization page for more details.

North Carolina CNA Certification Requirements

There is no minimum education requirement but a high school diploma or a GED is recommended i you want to earn your CNA certification in NC. Trainees with specific criminal convictions (found here) will not be allowed to practice as a CNA. Other state requirements include:

  • Being 17 years or older
  • High school diploma or GED (recommended)
  • Passing a drug test
  • Negative TB test
  • FBI criminal background check
  • Doctor’s clearance that you have no communicable diseases and are physically fit to handle the rigors of the job
  • Immunization records, including varicella, Hepatitis B, TDaP, and two-step PPD

North Carolina CNA Classes & Testing Costs

North Carolina is one of the few states that still do not demand nurse aides to undergo a program before their competency evaluation. Classes are recommended, however, as it will provide the chance to grow the knowledge and skills the exam will require from you.

State-approved programs offer a minimum of 75 hours of instruction, which will include 16 hours of hands-on learning. If you fail the competency exam three times, you must enroll in a North Carolina state-licensed program before you can sit the test again.

In North Carolina, the cost of CNA classes is significantly lower than in other states at an average cost of $400. There might not be an abundant option for upfront financial aid, however, if you are employed within a year of certification, you may apply for reimbursement of your expenses. Sites that offer employer sponsored classes can be found here.

CNA Classes & Nurse Aide Courses in North Carolina

If becoming a CNA in North Carolina is starting to sound like a good opportunity, we encourage you to check out the following programs to see if they’re a good fit for your current situation and schedule. There are no fully online CNA classes in North Carolina, but hybrid online/in-person courses are offered by some providers. Some of these locations may offer employer sponsored CNA classes, while others may be tuition-based. Please contact them directly if you have questions on their curriculum or costs.

Training ProgramCityZip CodePhone
Stanly Community CollegeAlbemarle, NC28001704-982-0121
Randolph Community CollegeAsheboro, NC27205336-633-0200
Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community CollegeAsheville, NC28801828-398-7900
Brunswick Community CollegeBolivia, NC28422910-755-7300
Cape Fear Community CollegeBurgaw, NC28425910-259-4966
Chosen Health Care Institute, Inc.Charlotte, NC28262704-547-1988
Serenity Nurse Aide Academy & Nursing ServicesCharlotte, NC28215704-567-8000
Unity Nursing InstituteCharlotte, NC28217704-525-1448
Carolinas College of Health SciencesCharlotte, NC28217704-355-5043
Umanah Healthcare InstituteCharlotte, NC28212704-531-1100
Umanah Healthcare InstituteCharlotte, NC28212704-531-1100
Maxim Healthcare ServicesCharlotte, NC28204704-366-1075
American Academy of HealthcareCharlotte, NC28205704-525-3500
Divine Health AcademyCharlotte, NC28212704-566-2955
Sampson Community CollegeClinton, NC28328910-592-8081
Mary Gran Nursing CenterClinton, NC28329910-592-7981
Mary Gran Nursing CenterClinton, NC28329910-592-7981
Haywood Community CollegeClyde, NC28721828-627-2821
Isothermal Community CollegeColumbus, NC28722828-894-3092
Cabarrus College of Health SciencesConcord, NC28025704-403-1555
Gaston CollegeDallas, NC28034704-922-6200
Surry Community CollegeDobson, NC27017336-386-8121
Bladen Community CollegeDublin, NC28332910-879-5500
Triangle Nurse Aide ProgramDurham, NC27707919-908-9939
Triangle Nurse Aide ProgramDurham, NC27707919-908-9939
Harris Training Institute, IncDurham, NC27703919-224-8081
NuAngels Home Care, LLCDurham, NC27707984-244-7835
WISDOM HEALTH ACADEMYDurham, NC27707919-908-9939
Comfort Keepers Home CareDurham, NC27707919-504-2473
Durham Technical Community CollegeDurham, NC27703919-536-7200
Maxim Healthcare ServicesDurham, NC27707919-419-1484
Right at HomeDurham, NC27707919-237-2333
College of The Albemarle ⁠— Edenton-ChowanEdenton, NC27932252-482-7900
College of The Albemarle – Elizabeth CityElizabeth City, NC27909252-335-0821
SCC Elkin CenterElkin, NC28621336-386-3605
Golden Years Nursing HomeFalcon, NC28342910-980-1271
Fayetteville Technical Community CollegeFayetteville, NC28303910-678-8400
Miller-Motte CollegeFayetteville, NC28311910-238-3077
Miller-Motte CollegeFayetteville, NC28311910-238-3077
Blue Ridge Community CollegeFlat Rock, NC28731828-694-1700
Southwestern Community College - Macon AnnexFranklin, NC28734828-339-4426
Wayne Community CollegeGoldsboro, NC27534919-735-5151
Alamance Community CollegeGraham, NC27253336-578-2002
Pamlico Community CollegeGrantsboro, NC28529252-249-1851
Caring Hands Home Health IncGreensboro, NC27408336-389-1297
CNA TodayGreensboro, NC27408877-221-7757
UNCG School of NursingGreensboro, NC27402336-334-5016
GTCC Greensboro CampusGreensboro, NC27405336-334-4822
One Day CNAGreensboro, NC27409336-833-3066
East Carolina UniversityGreenville, NC27858252-328-6131
Richmond Community CollegeHamlet, NC28345910-410-1700
Vance-Granville Community CollegeHenderson, NC27536252-492-2061
Catawba Valley Community CollegeHickory, NC28602828-327-7000
Caring For LifeJacksonville, NC28540910-989-2273
Coastal Carolina Community CollegeJacksonville, NC28546910-455-1221
Guilford Technical Community CollegeJamestown, NC27282336-334-4822
Southern College of Health SciencesKannapolis, NC28083704-707-3965
James Sprunt Community CollegeKenansville, NC28349910-296-2400
Summerstone Health & Rehabilitation CenterKernersville, NC27284336-515-3000
Summerstone Health & Rehabilitation CenterKernersville, NC27284336-515-3000
Lenoir Community CollegeKinston, NC28504252-527-6223
Gaston College - Lincoln CampusLincolnton, NC28092704-748-1040
Robeson Community CollegeLumberton, NC28360910-272-3700
College of The Albemarle ⁠— Dare, 205 Highway 64 S.Manteo, NC27954252-473-2264
College of The Albemarle ⁠— Dare, 132 Russell Twiford RdManteo, NC27954252-473-2264
Central Piedmont Community College - Levine CampusMatthews, NC28105704-330-4200
Davidson County Community ClgMocksville, NC27028336-751-2885
Mitchell Community College- Mooresville CampusMooresville, NC28115704-663-1923
Carteret Community CollegeMorehead City, NC28557252-222-6000
Western Piedmont Community CollegeMorganton, NC28655828-448-3500
Tri-County Community CollegeMurphy, NC28906828-837-6810
Mayland Community CollegeNewland, NC28657828-733-5883
Sandhills Community CollegePinehurst, NC28374910-692-6185
Central Carolina Community College - Pittsboro CampusPittsboro, NC27312919-545-8000
South Piedmont Community CollegePolkton, NC28135704-272-5300
Sandhills Community CollegeRaeford, NC28376910-875-8589
North Carolina State UniversityRaleigh, NC27695919-515-2011
Allcare Home Health Agency, IncRaleigh, NC27615919-301-0236
Miller-Motte CollegeRaleigh, NC27604919-230-6471
Miller-Motte CollegeRaleigh, NC27604919-230-6471
Care One Health Training InstituteRaleigh, NC27603919-773-7165
Tri-County Community CollegeRobbinsville, NC28771828-479-9256
Nash Community CollegeRocky Mount, NC27804252-443-4011
Edgecombe Community CollegeRocky Mount, NC27801252-823-5166
Central Carolina Community CollegeSanford, NC27330919-775-5401
Westfield Rehabilitation & Health CenterSanford, NC27332919-775-5404
Westfield Rehabilitation & Health CenterSanford, NC27332919-775-5404
Cleveland Community CollegeShelby, NC28152704-669-6000
Central Carolina Community CollegeSiler City, NC27344919-663-1266
Johnston Community CollegeSmithfield, NC27577919-934-3051
Smithfield Manor Nursing and RehabSmithfield, NC27577919-934-3171
Lenoir Community CollegeSnow Hill, NC28580252-747-3434
Wilkes Community CollegeSparta, NC28675336-372-5061
Isothermal Community CollegeSpindale, NC28160828-286-3636
Mayland Community CollegeSpruce Pine, NC28777828-765-7351
Brian Center Health & Rehabilitation/Spruce PineSpruce Pine, NC28777828-765-7312
Mitchell Community CollegeStatesville, NC28677704-878-3200
Davis Regional Medical CenterStatesville, NC28625704-873-0281
Southwestern Community College - Jackson CampusSylva, NC28779828-339-4000
Davidson County Community CollegeThomasville, NC27360336-249-8186
Lenoir Community College Jones CountyTrenton, NC28585252-448-5021
Vance-Granville Community College Warren CampusWarrenton, NC27589252-257-1900
Warren Hills Rehabilitation & Nursing CenterWarrenton, NC27589252-257-2011
Warren Hills Rehabilitation & Nursing CenterWarrenton, NC27589252-257-2011
Beaufort County Community CollegeWashington, NC27889252-946-6194
Halifax Community CollegeWeldon, NC27890252-536-4221
Ashe Campus-Wilkes Community collegeWest Jefferson, NC28694336-846-3900
Southeastern Community CollegeWhiteville, NC28472910-642-7141
Liberty Commons Nursing & Rehabilitation Center of Columbus CountyWhiteville, NC28472910-642-7139
Wilkes Community CollegeWilkesboro, NC28697336-838-6100
Martin Community CollegeWilliamston, NC27892252-792-1521
Bradley Creek Health CenterWilmington, NC28403910-769-7550
Cape Fear Community CollegeWilmington, NC28401910-362-7000
Wilson Community CollegeWilson, NC27893252-291-1195
Martin Community CollegeWindsor, NC27983252-794-4861
Caring Hands Home Health IncWinston-Salem, NC27106336-289-0325
Davidson County Community CollegeWinston-Salem, NC27106336-289-0325
Forsyth Technical Community College Main CampusWinston-Salem, NC27103336-723-0371
Forsyth Tech Community College - Woodruff CenterWinston-Salem, NC27105336-734-7950
Forsyth TechWinston-Salem, NC27103336-723-0371
Wake Forest Baptist Health - Wake Forest Baptist Medical CenterWinston-Salem, NC27157336-716-2011
Mount Eagle College and UniversityWinston-Salem, NC27105336-776-0357
Pitt Community CollegeWinterville, NC28590252-493-7200

CNA Programs in Charlotte, NC

Central Piedmont Community College (CPCC). This program offers new classes every semester. The students will train with experienced instructors and are allowed to register for the CNA exam upon successful completion of the course. After obtaining a listing on the state’s Nurse Aide I registry, graduates can apply for Nurse Aide II classes available at CPCC.

American Academy of Healthcare. This program costs around $575 and offers both day and evening classes. Upon completion, the individual receives a Certificate of Completion. The classes are small in number to ensure trainees get the attention they need to grow and develop.

College of Health Sciences. They have classrooms and laboratories for the students’ use, as well as clinical facilities which include Carolina’s Medical Center, Carolina’s Rehabilitation and Sardis Nursing Home among others. Nurse Aide 1 and Nurse Aide 2 programs are provided. Registration will be confirmed only if there is available space. Tuition is $595 and includes Basic Life Support, study packet, and clearance of clinical coursework. Students are responsible for state testing fee, scrubs and other supplies. 

Learn more about CNA classes in Charlotte.

CNA Programs in Raleigh, NC

Wake Tech Community College. This program teaches applicants basic nursing skills over a four-week state-approved course which follows all the guidelines set by the North Carolina Division of Health. Included in the list of subjects are communication, patient’s rights, personal care, mental health, nutrition, safety, vital signs, first aid, rehabilitation, and emergency. All graduates are eligible to take the two-part state competency exam which can be taken at the institution in either English or Spanish.

Care One Health Training Institute. The CNA 1 tuition fee at this institution is around $650 including registration and textbooks fees and around $925 for CNA 2. The CNA1 program provides trainees with expert demonstrations of taking patient’s vital signs, responding to emergencies using approved procedures, providing personal and rehabilitative care, meeting patient’s social needs and mental health, etc. The CNA2 program teaches skills that build on the knowledge obtained in CNA1 classes.

Learn more about CNA classes in Raleigh.

CNA Programs in Durham, NC

Durham Technical Community College. This comprehensive course is around 170 hours and goes beyond what is the state-required minimums. It lasts for 16 weeks but they also offer a 9-week option. Both include classroom and hands-on learning. Tuition is approximately $540 which includes registration fees, textbooks, criminal background checks, TB skin tests, NA exam fees, insurance fees, equipment, and uniform. The program qualifies for financial assistance. The grant deadline is 10 days prior to the class start date.

Harris Training Institute Inc This is a 9-week long program but there is also a fast-track option completed in 4 weeks. The program consists of theoretical knowledge and hands-on learning. Tuition is around $550 and does not include the cost of textbooks, uniform, criminal background check, immunization, or state exam fee.

Additional North Carolina CNA Resources

The above information can likely get you started on your path to becoming a CNA in the state of North Carolina, however, the links below may also be helpful in your educational path or in the future after you’ve gained your CNA certification in North Carolina.

North Carolina Nurse Aide Registry

To contact the North Carolina CNA Registry, use the information below:

NC Department of Health & Human Services
Division of Health Service Regulation
2709 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699Phone: (919) 855-3969
License Verification: (919) 715-0562
Fax: (919) 733-9764
Website

Out-of-State CNAs

North Carolina does not practice exchange or transfer of CNA licenses between states. The procedure of transferring your license is a little more complicated than other states. To gain placement on the nurse aide registry to be permitted for work, you will need to pass the state-approved nurse aide classes and competency exam and pass the state evaluation administered by Pearson Vue.

CNA Renewals in North Carolina

Once you pass the competency exam your license is valid for 24 months, which can be renewed for another 24 months if you report your qualifying employment to the registry. This needs to be paid-for work, under the supervision of a registered nurse, and a minimum of eight hours within the two-year period.

A renewal application will be mailed to you by the registry three months prior to expiration. If your license expires, you will need to retest and/or retrain in order to renew.

How much does a CNA make in North Carolina?

Like in any job, your salary will vary depending on where you work as well as the institution or organization that will employ you. Metro areas offer higher salaries than rural as there is more demand for workers, but there is generally a higher cost of living. On average the hourly mean wage in North Carolina is $15.28 and the average annual salary is $31,780, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics latest data from May of 2022.