CNA Classes & Programs in Maryland
- CNA Programs in Maryland: At-a-Glance
- Why Become a CNA in Maryland?
- Maryland CNA Training & Certification
- CNA Curriculum & Clinical Training in Maryland
- How Long Does it Take to Become a CNA in Maryland?
- Do Online CNA Programs Exist in Maryland?
- 2026 Fastest CNA Training Program Options in Maryland
- 2026 Affordable CNA Training Program Options in Maryland
- Maryland CNA Employment and Wages
- How to Choose the Right CNA Program in Maryland
- CNA vs Other Healthcare Roles in Maryland
- 2026 Updated List of Maryland Schools Offering CNA Classes
- Latest Articles & Guides
Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), also known as nurse aides in some contexts, are frontline caregivers in Maryland’s healthcare system, providing essential support to patients in hospitals, long-term care facilities, rehabilitation centers, and home health agencies. Whether in Baltimore, suburban counties, or rural regions, CNAs help residents with everyday care needs and work closely with registered nurses and licensed practical nurses.
Maine’s proximity to major metro areas like Washington, DC and Philadelphia has spurred growth in demand for quality direct care services, and CNA training provides an efficient, inexpensive route into health care with solid employment prospects.
You’ll learn on this page:
- How Maryland defines state CNA training and exam requirements
- How many hours and what type of instruction Maryland requires
- What you’ll study in Maryland CNA classes
- Typical timelines and total CNA program cost ranges
- How to evaluate CNA training options in Maryland
CNA Programs in Maryland: At-a-Glance
| Category | Maryland CNA Information |
| Minimum training hours required | 100 hours (minimum per state regulation) |
| Clinical requirement | Yes – supervised practical clinical experience required |
| Certification exam | Maryland Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation (written/oral + skills) |
| State registry | Maryland Nurse Aide Registry (MDH) |
| Typical program length | ~6–12 weeks |
| Typical total cost | $900–$2,000+ (varies by provider) |
| Average CNA Salary in Maryland | See salary section below |
Why Become a CNA in Maryland?
Maryland's healthcare landscape has an ongoing need for qualified direct care workers. Skilled nursing facilities, acute care hospitals, and home care providers across the state consistently hire CNAs to fill positions created by both turnover and expanding patient services.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects continued job growth for nurse aides through the end of the decade, reflecting factors such as:
- Maryland's aging population requiring more long-term care support
- Expansion of community-based services and home health care
- Demand for hands-on care in post-acute and rehabilitation settings
Many employers in Maryland offer sign-on bonuses, shift differentials, and tuition reimbursement for CNAs who advance to further nursing education, making CNA training not only a job but also a stepping-stone toward careers like LPN or RN.
Maryland CNA Training & Certification
Earning CNA certification in Maryland involves a few clear steps:
- Complete an approved CNA training program featuring at least the state's required minimum of 100 hours of instruction—classroom and clinical.
- Pass the Maryland Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation, which includes:
- A written or oral knowledge test
- A hands-on skills demonstration
- Be listed on the Maryland Nurse Aide Registry, which authorizes you to work legally as a CNA in the state.
- Stay active on the registry by meeting Maryland's employment/recertification criteria (typically working a minimum number of hours in a paid CNA position within the renewal period).
Maryland's competency exam tests practical patient care tasks, such as infection control, safety, and activities of daily living, all anchored in real-world care expectations.
CNA Curriculum & Clinical Training in Maryland
Maryland CNA Coursework & Clinical Overview
| Training Component | What Students Learn |
| Nursing Fundamentals | Safety, infection prevention, patient rights |
| Personal Care Skills | Bathing, grooming, feeding, toileting assistance |
| Vital Signs & Monitoring | Taking and recording vital statistics |
| Communication & Professionalism | Interaction with patients, families, and care teams |
| Clinical Training | Supervised hands-on experience in a care setting |
Clinical Training Notes for Maryland:
- Supervised clinical practice is required and integrated into the overall minimum of 100 hours.
- Clinical hours typically occur in long-term care facilities, hospitals, or rehab settings.
- Supervised clinical experience ensures that students can safely perform key patient care tasks before testing.
How Long Does it Take to Become a CNA in Maryland?
Maryland CNA classes generally take about 6 to 12 weeks to complete. Factors affecting the timeline include:
- Whether students complete training full-time or part-time
- Availability of clinical placements
- Evening, weekend, or hybrid scheduling options
Accelerated tracks can allow motivated students to finish in the shortest possible time, while flexible schedules are common for working adults.
Do Online CNA Programs Exist in Maryland?
Maryland does not allow fully online CNA certification programs that bypass in-person clinical training.
- Some Maryland schools offer hybrid learning, where classroom theory or online modules are combined with in-person labs.
- All skills labs and clinical hours must be completed in person at state-approved facilities to qualify for the competency exam and registry listing.
Prospective students should be wary of any program claiming 100% online certification without hands-on clinical training.
2026 Fastest CNA Training Program Options in Maryland
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Anne Arundel Community College |
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| Carroll Community College |
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| College of Southern Maryland |
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2026 Affordable CNA Training Program Options in Maryland
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Anne Arundel Community College |
|
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| Carroll Community College |
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| Cecil College |
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Maryland CNA Employment and Wages
CNA positions in Maryland often pay above the national average thanks to regional cost of living differences and robust healthcare demand. Wages may vary by employer type, location, and shift. Learn more about CNA salaries.
CNA Salary in Maryland
| Location | Total Employment | Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 1,388,430 | $39,530 |
| Maryland | 24,230 | $40,000 |
Table data taken from 2024 BLS (http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes311131.htm)
How to Choose the Right CNA Program in Maryland
When comparing Maryland CNA training options, consider these key criteria:
- State approval & eligibility for the Maryland Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation
- Clinical placement support provided by the school
- Transparent total tuition and fees
- Flexible scheduling (e.g., day, evening, weekend formats)
- Career services and employer connections
Strong programs typically share high first-time exam pass rates, experienced instructors, and clear pathways to job placement upon graduation.
CNA vs Other Healthcare Roles in Maryland
| Role | Training Time | Focus of Work | Credential |
| CNA | ~6–12 weeks | Basic patient care, ADLs, vital signs | State registry |
| Medical Assistant (MA) | ~9–12 months | Clinic procedures + admin tasks | Certificate |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | ~12–18 months | Medications, nursing care | State license |
| Registered Nurse (RN) | ~2–4 years | Comprehensive nursing practice | State license |
For students seeking the quickest and most inexpensive way into hands-on healthcare work, CNA training is one of the most accessible starting points. For those who wish to advance to a nursing career, CNA to RN programs can be an excellent pathway. Explore nursing schools in Maryland for other options.
2026 Updated List of Maryland Schools Offering CNA Classes
Arnold, MD
Anne Arundel Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified and Geriatric Nursing Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based training program.
- 136 total program hours.
- $2,856 cost for residents.
- Must be 18 or older.
- Mandatory information session required.
- Two required courses.
- Prepares for Maryland CNA license.
- Includes clinical training component.
Baltimore, MD
Community College of Baltimore County
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant, Continuing Education Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- Continuing Education Workforce Certificate.
- In-person format at three campuses.
- 88-hour theory course with labs.
- 48-hour clinical rotation required.
- Total cost $2,194.
- Approved by Maryland Board of Nursing.
- Prepares for CNA and GNA certification.
- Textbooks included in course fees.
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- 1-3 month program length
- Total cost around $1,909
- Maryland state certification
- Clinical and theory training
- CPR certification included
- Career opportunities in healthcare
- Prerequisite CPR course
- Medical documentation required
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant
Concentration: Geriatric Nursing Assistant - Campus Based - Website
- 4-month program length.
- Campus-based in Dundalk, Essex, Randallstown.
- Total cost $2,194.
- No high school diploma required.
- 88-hour theory course.
- 48-hour clinical rotation.
- Covers CNA and GNA certification.
- Approved by Maryland Board of Nursing.
Bel Air, MD
Harford Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Campus Based - Website
- 3-month program duration
- 75 hours clinical experience
- Campus-based instruction
- Includes CPR certification
- Includes fingerprinting fees
- Includes NNAAP exam fee
- Includes MBON registration
- Reading assessment required
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nursing Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- 66-hour clinical training
- Maryland Board of Nursing approved
- Takes NNAAP certification exam
- Program cost $1,953
- Two required courses
- Healthcare facility placement
- CPR certification included
Columbia, MD
Howard Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nursing Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- 5-week program length.
- Hybrid online and campus format.
- Tuition cost $1,700.
- 145 total program hours.
- 40 hours clinical training.
- Requires high school diploma.
- Must be 18 years old.
- Background check required.
Cumberland, MD
Allegany College of Maryland
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant/Geriatric Aide
Campus Based - Website
- 16-credit certificate program.
- One semester completion time.
- Campus-based instruction.
- Classroom and lab training.
- 45-hour clinical experience.
- Maryland Board of Nursing approved.
- Prepares for CNA/GNA certification.
- Open enrollment program.
Frederick, MD
Frederick Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based CNA program
- Comprehensive health requirements
- Strict background check process
- CPR certification required
- Detailed technical standards
- Multiple health screenings needed
- Clinical skills training
- Medication safety exam
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nursing Assistant CNA
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Prepares for Maryland CNA certification
- Includes Geriatric Nursing Assistant exam prep
- Continuing Education program
- Combines classroom and clinical
- Affordable tuition options
- Financial assistance available
- Scholarships offered
Hagerstown, MD
Hagerstown Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Courses
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for Maryland CNA/GNA certification.
- Includes clinical experience component.
- Covers medical terminology and infection control.
- Scholarships available for costs.
- COVID-19 vaccination required.
- Allied Health application process.
- Training for hospital or long-term care.
- Focuses on personal care skills.
La Plata, MD
College of Southern Maryland
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nursing Assistant/Certified Geriatric Nursing Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- Two required courses.
- Campus-based program.
- Cost: $2,389.
- Age 18+ requirement.
- Work Keys Assessment needed.
- Background checks required.
- Health screenings mandatory.
- 100% attendance required.
Largo, MD
Prince George's Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nursing Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- Program approved by Maryland Board of Nursing.
- Cost: $1,000 for theory, $600 for clinical.
- Requires high school diploma or GED.
- Must pass Reading Accuplacer Test (230+).
- Complete PGCC New Student Orientation.
- Register for both CNA Theory and Clinical.
- Students need Social Security or tax ID.
- Textbooks required: Hartman's Nursing Assistant Care.
North East, MD
Cecil College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for CNA/GNA certification.
- Evening/weekend program schedule.
- 150 total instructional hours.
- Classroom and clinical components.
- Maryland Board of Nursing approved.
- Delaware reciprocity eligibility.
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Background check mandatory.
Rockville, MD
Montgomery College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) / Geriatric Nursing Assistant Program (GNA)
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Includes CNA and GNA training.
- No certification exam for CNA.
- Offered fall, spring, summer.
- Classroom and clinical components.
- Hands-on practice with patients.
- Supervised by RNs.
- Needs-based scholarships available.
Westminster, MD
Carroll Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) & Geriatric Nursing Assistant (GNA) Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- 132-hour training program
- 2-3 month completion time
- $2,178 total program cost
- Minimum age requirement 16
- Spring, Summer, Fall offerings
- Classroom and clinical training
- Maryland Board of Nursing certification
- Career growth opportunities
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Campus Based - Website
- 132-hour program length.
- 2-3 months completion time.
- Campus-based training.
- $2,178 program cost.
- 16+ years old requirement.
- High school diploma or GED preferred.
- Background checks required.
- Fingerprinting required.
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