CNA Classes Baltimore, MD

Certified Nursing Assistants help care for those who are physically or mentally ill, disabled, or injured at long-term care facilities, assisted living facilities, and hospitals. As a member of the health care team, CNAs work under the direction of a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse, assisting clients with bathing, dressing, toileting, eating, mobility, and oral care. They may also measure vital signs, provide physical and emotional support, and answer patients’ call lights. If you’re thinking of a career in nursing, working as a CNA is a great way to test the waters. By working with nurses and other members of the healthcare team, you’ll discover if you have what it takes to become a nurse. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for nursing assistants will rise by 20 percent during the years 2010 to 2020. The projected growth rate is faster than the average for all other occupations.

It Works Learning Center, Inc.

It Works Learning Center, Inc. provides nursing assistant students with the very best CNA/GNA training needed to succeed as health care professionals. The curriculum includes 140 hours of classroom and supervised clinical rotations to prepare graduates with certified nursing assistant training and geriatric nursing assistant training. Graduates are eligible to take the state competency exam and receive lifetime job placement assistance. Day or evening class schedules are available. Daytime sessions meet 3 days a week for 9 weeks and evening (part-time) classes meet 2 days a week for 13 weeks.

Admission criteria:

  • No high school diploma required
  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Must attend an information session
  • Fill out an application for admission
  • Complete the Student Responsibilities and Agreement and Background Check forms
  • Pay the registration fee of $50
  • Take and pass the Math and Reading test
  • Must have valid American Heart Association or “Healthcare Provider” CPR and First Aid certifications
  • Must pass a criminal background check
  • Submit documentation of immunization including a negative TB test

The tuition of $1,800 is payable using a flexible payment plan. The initial $50 registration fee secures a seat in the class, $350 is payable on the first day of classes and the final $1400 may be paid weekly, biweekly, or monthly. Tuition does not include the cost of PPD screening, background check and fingerprinting, scrubs, and state testing and licensing.

Stein Academy

The Maryland Board of Nursing approved nursing assistant program at Stein Academy includes 115 contact hours of instruction – 75 hours in the classroom and 40 hours of supervised clinical experiences. Course topics include body structure and function, infection control, the role and responsibility of the nurse aide, vital signs, communication, feeding and nutrition, and personal care. Graduates will be eligible to apply to take the state nurse aide exam.  Classes run for 4 weeks based on the weekday/evening schedule or 8.5 weeks based on a weekend schedule.

Admission criteria:

  • Must pass a pre-admission test or submit evidence of successfully completing high school or equivalent
  • Provide a copy of social security card, US immigrations number and a photo ID
  • Obtain TB clearance (not older than 6 months)
  • Provide proof of immunization against Hepatitis B, varicella, and MMR (a signed waiver is also acceptable)
  • Provide proof of health insurance coverage and a physical exam report
  • Must have current CPR and First Aid training
  • Must be at least 17 years old by the last scheduled class meeting
  • Pass a criminal background check

Tuition and lab fee costs $995. There is a non-refundable registration fee of $50. Additional costs include pre-admission testing, books, uniform, fingerprint and background check fee, GNA review, GNA review book.

Caroline Center

The nursing assistant program at Caroline Center is approved by the Maryland Board of Nursing. Students receive a thorough understanding of the role and responsibilities of a nursing assistant in a healthcare environment. The curriculum is divided into theory and clinical skills practice to prepare students for success in the certification exam and employment in the healthcare field. Course topics include legal and ethical principles, infection control, anatomy and physiology, dementia care, health terminology, vital signs, and rehabilitative techniques. Before clinical placement, students develop their clinical skills by practicing in the school’s state-of-the-art lab in groups of 8 to 10. The one-week supervised clinical experience is an opportunity for students to assist residents with personal care. Students who successfully complete the classroom and clinical training requirements are eligible to take the GNA examination at Caroline Center’s approved test site. Classes meet Monday through Friday from 9 am to 3 pm for 15 weeks

Admission criteria:

  • Must be Baltimore City residents
  • Must be 20 years or older
  • Must have a high school diploma or GED
  • Complete the TABE Locator reading and math test with satisfactory scores
  • Attend an admissions interview
  • Obtain background clearance

All students accepted into the program are awarded a scholarship the covers tuition, books, uniform, and supplies. The costs for a criminal background check, certification exam, and liability insurance are the student’s responsibility.

Top Knowledge Healthcare Institute

Students enrolled in the certified nursing assistant/geriatric nursing assistant (CNA/GNA) certification program at Top Knowledge Healthcare Institute will have the preparation needed to function in the role of nursing assistant under the guidance of a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse. The curriculum covers 115 contact hours of theory and practical instruction and meets the requirements set forth by the Maryland Board of Nursing and Maryland Higher Education Commission. Up to 75 hours of theory and lab will provide students with knowledge to perform basic patient care services for residents. Areas of study include basic anatomy and physiology, infection control, medical terminology, nutrition, toileting, communication techniques, and vital signs. The lab skills component will give students the opportunity to develop hands-on skills that include performing personal hygiene, measuring vital signs, feeding, hand-washing, transferring, and making beds. Students must complete the 40-hour externship at a long-term care facility to gain hands-on experience in preparation for practice. Flexible morning, evening, and weekend schedules are available to fit lives of busy students. Day classes and evening classes meet for 5 weeks and weekend classes meet for 6 weeks.

Admission criteria:

  • Provide a photo ID and social security card or Tax ID number
  • Provide proof of high school diploma, transcript, or GED or pass the Wonderlic Basic English Test
  • Pay the non-refundable registration fee of $100
  • Provide proof of completing the required physical exam – performed within 9 months
  • Provide proof of immunization records or blood titers for Hepatitis B or signed waiver
  • Provide proof of negative TB test or chest Xray performed within 6 months of start date
  • Complete an acceptable background check
  • Must have a current CPR certification from American Heart Association or American Red Cross

Tuition costs $1,145. The cost of the textbook and registration is $150.

  • Website: http://tkhci.com/
  • Address: 19 East Fayette Street, Suite 401, Baltimore, MD 21202
  • Phone: 410-528-1600

Community College of Baltimore County

The nurse assistant course at CCBC prepares students for certification as a CNA and a GNA in Maryland State. Course topics include infection control, medical terminology, transferring and ambulation, hands-washing, communication and interpersonal relationships, personal care and grooming, nutrition and feeding, and the role and responsibility of the nurse aide. Students must maintain a 75% average in theory and earn a minimum of 75 on the final exam to graduate. Upon completion of the program, students will receive a Certificate of Completion. The program is designed to be completed in 1 to 3 months. The course series is offered from September to December, January to March, and May to June at different CCBC locations. Daytime and evening schedules are available.

Admission criteria:

  • A high school diploma or GED is not required for program entry
  • Must have an internet connection to access the online learning platform
  • Must submit the following documents to CastleBranch:
  • A Physician Exam Report
  • Negative PPD (taken within 12 months) or negative chest x-ray less than one year old
  • Proof of vaccination – Hepatitis B, MMR, Varicella, Tdap, Influenza
  • Provide a copy of health insurance card – front and back
  • Copy of current HealthCare Provider CPR card – front and back
  • Complete a satisfactory background check and drug screen
  • Complete the prerequisite courses – HIPAA training and CPR for Health Care Providers.

Tuition for the program is $573. Fees cost an estimated $1336.

Baltimore City Community College

The Nursing Assistant program at BCCC is approved by the Maryland Board of Nursing. The program provides the knowledge and skills that students need to seek employment in long-term and acute care facilities. The curriculum combines nursing assistant theory with a clinical practicum so graduates can succeed on the certification exam. The curriculum covers a total of 144 contact hours: 104 hours in the classroom followed by 40 hours in a clinical setting to apply the skills learned in the classroom. The clinical hours are Monday through Friday from 7am to 4pm. 100% attendance is required.

Admission criteria:

  • Must complete a Medical Terminology course before enrolling the program
  • Obtain a negative TB skin test (PPD) or clear chest x-ray – must not be more than 12 months
  • Provide proof of immunization – MMR, Hepatitis B, Varicella, Influenza
  • Take and pass a math and reading assessment
  • Pass a federal and state background check

Tuition and fees for the program cost $1190. Participants must purchase uniform, a stethoscope and a watch with a second hand for the clinical experience.

  • Website: https://www.bccc.edu
  • Address: 2901 Liberty Heights Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21215-7807
  • Phone: 410-462-8300

Gandhi Health Career Services

The nursing assistant program at Gandhi Health Career Services prepares students for CNA and GNA certification in the state of Maryland. The program operates with the approval of the Maryland Board of Nursing. It includes classroom instruction and practical learning experiences in a skills lab and at a clinical site. Students must complete 120 hours – 88 hours in the classroom (includes 5 hours of CPR training) and 40 hours for the clinical experience. To receive a Certificate of Completion, students must have an attendance rate of 90% or better for the theory portion and 100% for the clinical portion and earn a passing score of at least 80% in all areas. Weekday and weekend schedules are available. Weekday students will complete the program in 5 weeks and the weekend class will run for 8 weeks.

Admission criteria:

  • A high school diploma or GED is not required for program entry
  • Provide a photo ID and social security card or Tax ID number
  • Pay the non-refundable registration fee of $50
  • Provide proof of completing the required physical exam – performed within 12 months
  • Provide proof of immunization records or blood titers for Hepatitis B or signed waiver
  • Provide proof of negative TB test or chest Xray performed within 6 months of start date
  • Complete an acceptable background check
  • Must have a current CPR certification from American Heart Association or American Red Cross

Tuition costs $950 and does not include the $50 registration fee. Students must also budget for the course textbook, uniform, and clinical supplies.

The Nursing Assistant Academy

The Nursing Assistant Academy prepares students to become nursing assistants according to state guidelines for theory and practical education. The rigorous curriculum covers all the essential training adults need to provide compassionate, professional, and patient-centered care to residents in acute and long-term settings. Students will learn the role of the interdisciplinary healthcare team, the responsibilities of the registered nurse, how to apply the knowledge gained in the provision of basic healthcare services, effective and appropriate communication techniques, and how to conduct follow up resident tasks delegated by a nurse. Graduates of the state-approved program will be prepared to sit for the Geriatric Nursing Assistant Examination.

Admission criteria:

  • Must be at least 17 years or older
  • Provide a valid driver’s license or birth certificate as verification of age
  • Provide evidence of completing high school or GED or pass a scholastic level entrance exam with a score of 11
  • Submit two passport size pictures
  • Submit copy of social security card or alien card
  • Provide proof of liability insurance
  • Provide evidence of negative PPD or chest x-ray
  • Must have current CPR card – Health Care Provider Card, American Heart Association, Red Cross and American Safety and Health
  • Submit a completed application and registration fee of $50
  • Submit three letters of references – from an employer or former teacher
  • Submit the application fee for MBON certification
  • Complete the application form for initial certification

Tuition for the program is $950.

  • Website: https://www.thenursingassistantacademy.com/
  • Address: 5811 Baltimore Avenue Suite 101, Riverdale Park, MD 20737
  • Phone: (240) 770 -8251
  • Alt: (301) 333 -6254
  • Fax: (240) 770 – 8241
  • Email: info@thenursingassistantacademy.com

Health Focus, Inc.

The Certified Nursing Assistant and Geriatric Nursing Assistant (CNA/GNA) certification program at Health Focus prepare adults with knowledge and skills to assume a position as a certified nursing assistant, home health aide, or personal care assistant in nursing homes, senior care facility, or private residence. The comprehensive program includes theory and practical instruction in personal care, infection control, diet and nutrition, interpersonal skills, ambulatory transfers, preventative healthcare methods, psychosocial, safety and emergency procedures, documentation and charting, basic nursing, restorative skills, and measuring solid/fluid intake and output. The training includes 114.5 clock hours – 48 clock hours of theory, 24 clock hours of lab, and 42.5 clock hours of clinical experience.

Admission criteria:

  • Must be at least 18 years of age – must provide proof of age
  • Provide proof of current, negative TB skin test or negative chest x-ray – must be older than 6 months
  • Provide proof of high school diploma or GED
  • Provide proof of hepatitis B vaccine or signed waiver
  • Complete a physical exam – must be at least 6 months
  • Provide a copy of photo ID and social security card

Tuition for the program is $875. Other costs include registration, books, lab fee, materials, CPR/AED, First Aid, Blood Borne pathogen, GNA state exam, CNA certification, and fingerprinting. The total for expenses and tuition is approximately $1,420.

  • Website: https://www.hfischool.com/
  • Address: 4900 Belair Road, Baltimore, MD 21206
  • Phone: 410-488-6600
  • Email: admin@hfischool.com

Howard Community College

Howard Community College prepares adults for a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant in just six to eight weeks. Experienced and professionally trained instructors cover theory in the classroom and practical sessions in the school lab and at clinical sites. The curriculum requires 145 hours of training. Both the theory and clinical sections of the program must be taken simultaneously. Graduates will receive a Certificate of Completion and be eligible to take the State Geriatric Nursing Assistant exam.

Admission criteria:

  • Must be at least 18 years or older
  • Must have a high school diploma or GED
  • Complete the immunization requirements
  • Pass a criminal background check
  • Take and pass a reading exam one week before the start date

Tuition for the program is $1,535. It includes $740 in fees. Additional costs for the criminal background check and materials must be covered by the student.

Anne Arundel Community College

The CNA/GNA program at Anne Arundel Community College prepares adults for work in a long-term care facility. Theory and practical training will equip students with the skills to answer patient calls, measure and record vital signs, serve meals, make beds, measure fluid intake and output, and communicate effectively. Completion of the program requires full participating in all three components of the course – CNA Theory, Skills Lab, and Clinical Externship.

Admission criteria:

  • Must be at least 16 years of age
  • Attend a mandatory information session
  • Must have an eighth-grade or better reading level
  • Provide written documentation of MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B, Influenza, and negative TB test or chest x-ray
  • Complete fingerprinting and criminal background check

The total program cost for Anne Arundel County residents is $2,789. The cost of the Geriatric Nursing Assistant certification exam is separate.

Cecil College

Cecil College offers a weekend/evening certified nursing assistant program for adults who want to work as a Certified Nursing Assistant. Nursing Assistant theory covers basic theory guidelines established by the Maryland Board of Nursing. Topics include the tole of the nurse aide, infection control, safety/environment, positioning, body mechanics, employment strategies, hygiene, data collection, professionalism, and inpatient care. Students will have the opportunity to work directly with patients at a clinical site under the supervision of the clinical instructor. This will support the development of core skills such as hands-washing, bed making, measuring fluid intake and output, patient transfers, and much more.

Admission criteria:

  • Must be at least 16 years of age
  • Attend a mandatory information session
  • Must have an eighth-grade or better reading level
  • Provide written documentation of MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B, Influenza, and negative TB test or chest x-ray
  • Complete fingerprinting and criminal background check

Tuition and fees cost $1730 for both components of the program.

 

Crystal G

Crystal is a certified Registered Nurse (RN) with a passion for writing about nursing education. Through her articles, Crystal shares insights and tips to help fellow nurses enhance their skills and stay updated with the latest developments in the field. With a focus on practical advice and relevant topics, Crystal's writing is a valuable resource for nursing professionals seeking to advance their careers.