Nurse Aide I (CNA) Program Overview
Prepare for entry-level employment as a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) in long-term care, hospitals, home health, and other healthcare settings. Students learn patient care skills, communication, safety, infection control, and professionalism through classroom, lab, and clinical training.
Course Information
- Approximately 160 hours
- Includes classroom, lab, and clinical training
- Day and evening options may be available
- Various sites for course offerings
- In-person instruction
- Clinical rotations required
Career Opportunities
- Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)
- Hospital Patient Care Assistant
- Home Health Aide
- Long-Term Care Assistant
- Entry pathway into healthcare careers
Step One:
The Introduction to Health Care Careers course is the starting point for many Health Occupations programs. Completing this course helps you explore healthcare careers, understand program expectations, and enter the enrollment pathway for future program openings
Getting Started
- Introductory Step: Students are highly encouraged to first complete Introduction to Healthcare Careers. This zero-tuition course builds necessary medical terminology, basic medical math, and workplace professionalism.
- Screening & Paperwork: Begin compiling medical documentation, state IDs, and submitting clinical screening clearances early.
Applicants must be at least 16 ½ years old on the first day of class and provide the following to the Health Occupations Office:
| Requirement Type | Description / Accepted Documentation |
|---|---|
| Identification | Valid government photo ID & Social Security card. |
| Physical Demands | Signed documentation validating the physical ability to meet clinical demands. |
| Screenings | Completed background check and clinical drug screening ($67.00 fee). |
| Immunizations | Hepatitis B: 3-shot series or titer proof (or signed declination). TB Testing: Negative PPD skin test or IGRA Blood test within the past 12 months. (Positive results require a clear chest X-ray & physician clearance). COVID-19: 2 doses of primary series, 1 dose of updated series, or signed declination. Influenza: Annual vaccine (required starting in October). |
| Registration/Tuition Fee | $296.00 [cite: 60] |
|---|---|
| Textbook | $88.00 [cite: 61] |
| Clinical Background Check & Drug Screening | $67.00 [cite: 63] |
| Uniforms & Shoes (Full-set scrubs required for class/lab) | $30.00 – $120.00 [cite: 62, 82] |
| State Competency Testing Fee (Post-Completion) | $140.00 [cite: 64] |
| Estimated Total Program Investment | $621.00 – $711.00 |
Career Pathways & Certifications
- The Credential: Graduates qualify to sit for the North Carolina Nurse Aide I Competency Examination for official listing on the NC Nurse Aide Registry.
- Employment Opportunities: Hospital Patient Care Assistants, Home Health Aides, and Long-Term Care Assistants.