CNA Classes & Programs in Massachusetts

The role of certified nursing assistants (CNAs), also known as nurse aides or nursing assistants, is a popular entry-level position in nursing. Many CNAs learn about the nursing profession during their time as assistants and then go on to become licensed practical nurses or registered nurses.

Main job duties include helping patients with their daily activities like eating and bathing, taking vital signs, answering call lights and sanitizing rooms. Training programs for nurse aides are quick to complete and less expensive than practical nursing or RN programs, making this an excellent entry point to a career in nursing. CNAs in Massachusetts earn an average annual salary of $32,370, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Choosing the Best CNA Programs in Massachusetts

In order to secure a job as a CNA, aspiring nurse aides must complete a state-approved training program and pass a certification exam. CNA training programs are offered at many community colleges and technical schools across the state, as well as in some nursing homes and medical facilities. For more information about admissions requirements for CNA programs in Massachusetts, please visit our CNA Training Programs Admissions page.

• Program Length: CNA training programs vary in length and can take anywhere from 4 to 12 weeks to complete. CNA training programs include a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical practice under the supervision of an LPN or RN.

• Program Cost: The cost of CNA training varies from school to school, but generally includes tuition, lab fees, textbooks, uniforms, certification exam fees and the cost of TB testing and a criminal background check. As one example of program costs, the Nursing Assistant Program at Mass Bay Community College in Framingham costs $1,130 in tuition in 2019, plus an additional $242 for uniform, stethoscope, textbook, and CPR certification.

• Board Approved Programs: The Massachusetts Department of Public Health manages the Nurse Aid Registry Program, which reviews CNA training programs, oversees the CNA competency exam and maintains a registry of nurse aides licensed to work in Massachusetts. The Nurse Aide Registry Program also offers a list of state-approved training programs on their website. To learn more, check out the CNA certification requirements for Massachusetts.

• Online/In-Person Options: While most CNA programs in Massachusetts are traditional on-campus programs, some schools offer a hybrid format for their CNA training programs in which the classroom portion is offered online and the clinical practice portion is taught in-person in a medical facility. Online courses offer students the flexibility of taking classes on their own schedules and the convenience of completing assignments and attending lectures from home.

2023 List of CNA Classes in Massachusetts

To get a feel for the CNA curriculum in Massachusetts, see our list of classes and courses available in the state:

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.