CNA Classes & Programs in Connecticut
- CNA Programs in Connecticut: At-a-Glance
- Why Become a CNA in Connecticut?
- Connecticut CNA Training & Certification
- CNA Curriculum & Clinical Training in Connecticut
- How Long Does it Take to Become a CNA in Connecticut?
- Do Online CNA Programs Exist in Connecticut?
- 2026 Fastest CNA Training Program Options in Connecticut
- 2026 Affordable CNA Training Program Options in Connecticut
- Connecticut CNA Employment and Wages
- How to Choose the Right CNA Program in Connecticut
- CNA vs Other Healthcare Roles in Connecticut
- 2026 Updated List of Connecticut Schools Offering CNA Classes
- Latest Articles & Guides
Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) are a vital part of Connecticut’s healthcare system, supporting nurses and physicians by providing direct, hands-on care to patients. From skilled nursing facilities and rehabilitation centers to hospitals and assisted living communities, CNAs help ensure continuity of care across the state.
Connecticut’s strong healthcare infrastructure and aging population continue to drive demand for trained CNAs. Whether you’re entering healthcare for the first time or seeking a practical stepping stone into nursing, CNA programs offer a relatively quick and inexpensive path into the field.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- Connecticut’s CNA training and certification requirements
- What CNA classes and clinical training include
- How long it takes to become a CNA in Connecticut
- Whether online CNA training is allowed
- How to choose a state-approved CNA program
CNA Programs in Connecticut: At-a-Glance
| Category | Connecticut CNA Information |
| Minimum training hours required | 100 total hours (75 classroom + 25 clinical) |
| Clinical requirement | Yes, supervised clinical training required |
| Certification exam | National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) |
| State registry | Connecticut Nurse Aide Registry (CT Department of Public Health) |
| Typical program length | Between 5–12 weeks |
| Typical total cost | $900–$2,500 (varies by provider) |
| Average CNA salary in Connecticut | Roughly $38,000–$46,000 annually |
Why Become a CNA in Connecticut?
Connecticut has one of the oldest median populations in the country, which contributes to steady demand for long-term and post-acute care services. CNAs play a central role in meeting these needs by assisting patients with daily living activities, mobility, and basic clinical tasks.
The state employs tens of thousands of nursing assistants, particularly in nursing homes and rehabilitation facilities. CNA training offers a relatively short path into healthcare while providing exposure to clinical environments that can support advancement to LPN or RN roles.
Connecticut CNA Training & Certification
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (also referred to as a “nurse aide”) in Connecticut, individuals must complete a state-approved Nurse Aide Training Program (NATP) and pass the required competency exam before being placed on the Connecticut Nurse Aide Registry.
Training Requirements
Connecticut requires CNA programs to include at least 100 total hours of instruction, consisting of:
- 75 hours of classroom and lab instruction
- 25 hours of supervised clinical training
All programs must be approved by the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH).
Certification Exam
After completing training, candidates must pass the NNAAP exam, administered in Connecticut by the state's testing provider. The exam includes:
- A written or oral knowledge test
- A skills evaluation demonstrating essential CNA tasks
Both components must be passed to earn CNA certification in Connecticut.
Registry & Renewal
Successful candidates are listed on the Connecticut Nurse Aide Registry, which employers use to verify eligibility for employment. To remain active, CNAs must meet renewal requirements, which typically include documented paid employment as a nurse aide within the renewal period.
CNA Curriculum & Clinical Training in Connecticut
CNA Coursework & Clinical Overview
| Training Component | What Students Learn |
| Nursing Fundamentals | Patient safety, infection control, basic care |
| Personal Care Skills | Bathing, dressing, feeding assistance |
| Vital Signs & Monitoring | Measuring and documenting vital signs |
| Communication & Professionalism | Patient interaction, ethics, teamwork |
| Clinical Training | Supervised hands-on practice |
Clinical training in Connecticut is conducted at approved healthcare facilities, such as nursing homes or rehabilitation centers. Supervised clinical experience is required and is included within the 100-hour minimum, allowing students to apply classroom instruction in real patient care settings.
How Long Does it Take to Become a CNA in Connecticut?
Most CNA programs in Connecticut take between 5 and 12 weeks to complete. The timeline depends on whether the program is full-time or part-time, how clinical hours are scheduled, and whether the program is offered through a community college, adult education center, or private training provider.
Do Online CNA Programs Exist in Connecticut?
There are no fully online CNA programs in Connecticut. This is because hands-on patient care is a core requirement, so all students must complete in-person clinical training.
Some programs offer hybrid CNA classes, where portions of the theoretical coursework are delivered online. However, skills labs and clinical hours must always be completed in person at an approved site to qualify for CNA certification.
2026 Fastest CNA Training Program Options in Connecticut
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Connecticut State Community College |
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2026 Affordable CNA Training Program Options in Connecticut
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Connecticut State Community College |
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|
Connecticut CNA Employment and Wages
CNA salaries in Connecticut are generally competitive compared to national averages, reflecting the state's cost of living and strong healthcare demand. Earnings vary by region, facility type, and shift schedules.
CNA Salary in Connecticut
| Location | Total Employment | Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 1,388,430 | $39,530 |
| Connecticut | 21,390 | $44,500 |
Table data taken from 2024 BLS (http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes311131.htm)
How to Choose the Right CNA Program in Connecticut
When comparing CNA classes in Connecticut, consider:
- State approval: Programs must be approved by the Connecticut Department of Public Health
- Clinical placement quality: Hands-on training at licensed facilities is essential
- Scheduling flexibility: Evening, weekend, and part-time options may be available
- Clear cost breakdowns: Tuition, supplies, uniforms, and exam fees
- Employer connections: Programs with local healthcare partnerships may support job placement
CNA vs Other Healthcare Roles in Connecticut
CNA training is often the first step toward a broader healthcare career.
| Role | Education & Training Length | Scope of Practice | Common Connecticut Work Settings |
| CNA | Short-term program (100 hours) | Basic patient care and support | Nursing homes, hospitals, rehab centers |
| Medical Assistant (MA) | Certificate/diploma (9–12 months) | Clinical & administrative tasks | Physician offices, outpatient clinics |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | Diploma/certificate (~12–18 months) | Practical nursing care | Long-term care, hospitals |
| Registered Nurse (RN) | Associate or bachelor's degree (2–4 years) | Comprehensive nursing care | Hospitals, public health, specialty units |
While the CNA pathway offers one of the quickest paths to a healthcare career, other pathways, such as LPN and RN, can increase salary potential and career mobility. Look into CNA to RN programs, and consider nursing schools in Connecticut to learn more about how to advance.
2026 Updated List of Connecticut Schools Offering CNA Classes
New Britain, CT
Connecticut State Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- 6-week program length
- On-ground and hybrid formats
- $1,799 total cost
- Textbooks and exams included
- Multiple campus locations
- Fall, spring, summer terms
- Minimum age 16 years
- Health form required
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