CNA Classes in Virginia

A recent census discovered that the population of central Virginia is aging quickly. By 2030, about 20% of the population in the state of Virginia will be over the age of 65 years. From this, it can be concluded that medical care will be increasingly necessary. In particular, qualified CNAs will be needed to care for the changing and aging population in Virginia. Trained CNAs are poised to enjoy great success in healthcare. If you wish to contribute to Virginia healthcare, becoming a CNA could be a wonderful step forward.
Interested applicants should complete a state-approved program to gain licensing. Though the state of Virginia does not have strict guidelines for those who wish to obtain proper CNA licensing, some minimum requirements may need to be met before the program can begin. 

Virginia CNA Certification Requirements

Before beginning CNA classes, a brief list of requirements should be met. Some programs require a high school diploma; others may be more lenient. Some demands made on prospective candidates are: 

1. A criminal background check
2. Age of at least 18 years
3. A negative TB test
4. A medical exam
5. Proof of immunization
6. An ability to communicate effectively in English
7. A CPR card (this requirement may vary from place to place)
8. High school diploma (preferred)

Virginia CNA Programs & Testing Costs

Interested CNA candidates should complete a state-approved CNA program. Candidates should take care to refer to the Board’s list of approved programs before proceeding; licensing may be refused to candidates who complete programs that are not approved by the Board. A program should offer a minimum of 75 hours of classes. 

Program costs may vary from location to location within the state; however, students should budget anywhere between $400 and $2000 for their classes and materials. Some healthcare facilities may offer classes for qualified applicants. Low-income families may also be eligible for scholarships, grants, and special loans. For information on facilities that offer classes to CNA candidates, please follow this link. 

CNA Classes & Nurse Aide Courses in Virginia

If serving the healthcare industry by becoming a CNA sounds like a good career option, the following information about CNA centers may help you get started. Some of the programs may have different payment options. Others may provide different schedules for daytime or evening classes. As you look through the options, consider which facilities may be the best fit for your schedule.

CNA Programs in Virginia Beach

Tidewater Medical Training: This is a state-of-the-art establishment that offers quality CNA certification and classes to students. The curriculum covers a wide array of topics for student preparation, including interpersonal skills, infection control, body systems, and client safety. Clinical experience helps supplement classroom learning. Students will complete 137 hours of classwork between 4 and 6 weeks. Different schedules may slow down or speed up the rate of graduation. Admission requires an interview and a complete application. Graduates may take the Nurse Aide Exam. Tuition for the program costs about $850. 

Tidewater Community College: This is a three-week long program that offers about 140 hours of class time. A 40-hour medical internship helps students put their knowledge into practice. Tuition costs about $862, but more money should be budgeted for uniforms and other related materials. The program does not offer financial aid. 

Interim Health Care: This course is offered monthly. There are morning, evening, and night options for students who have different scheduling needs. This program costs $590, but certain individuals may qualify for reduced pricing tuition. Those who want to see if they can take the class should contact Interim Health Care. A high school diploma or GED equivalent is expected from all applicants. 

CNA Programs in Norfolk

Centura College: Students taking this course learn how to provide effective and compassionate care for patients. The curriculum covers about 160 hours of classes and clinical experience. Multiple skills and topics are taught in the classroom, including patient safety, infection control, first aid, and personal care skills. CNA candidates who graduate are ready to pass the Nurse Aide exam. 

CNA Programs in Richmond

Professional Career Institute: This is a six-week program that covers caregiving for patients. They also learn communication skills that prepare them to be effective with doctors, nurses, and their own patients. Tuition costs $950 and includes the cost of texts. However, students must cover the cost of uniforms and their background checks. Day and evening classes are available to students. 

Additional Virginia CNA resources

Department of Health Professions
Perimeter Center
9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 300
Henrico, Virginia 23233-1463

Office Hours:
Monday – Friday 8:15AM – 5:00PM (except Holidays)

Out-of-State CNAs

Though there are no guarantees, some CNAs may be able to transfer to Virginia without completing a Virginia-based CNA program. The Board allows reciprocity for transferring CNAs. An application for endorsement must be filled out, and certification from the other state must be submitted. No criminal convictions must be on the record. All application materials should be mailed to the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Renewal

CNA certification must be renewed every two years. For renewal, CNAs must have worked 8 continuous hours during the past 24 months. The Nursing Aide Registry must also be informed of any changes to the applicant’s address. 

How much does a CNA make in Virginia?

CNA salaries may vary from place to place within the state. Places that have a higher demand for assistant help in healthcare may pay higher salaries than regions without such a demand. Entry-level CNAs may make a smaller salary than those who have worked in the profession for many years. Extra certification and skill sets may also help boost the salary of a CNA. On average, the hourly pay for a CNA is $14.18, or a yearly salary of $29,490.

Charles Keck / Public domain