CNA Classes & Programs in Virginia
- CNA Programs in Virginia: At-a-Glance
- Why Train as a CNA in Virginia?
- Virginia CNA Certification Step by Step
- CNA Curriculum & Clinical Training in Virginia
- How Long Does CNA Training Take in Virginia?
- Do Online CNA Programs Exist in Virginia?
- 2026 Fastest CNA Training Program Options in Virginia
- 2026 Affordable CNA Training Program Options in Virginia
- Virginia CNA Employment and Wages
- Evaluating CNA Programs in Virginia: Good Signs vs Red Flags
- CNA vs Other Healthcare Roles in Virginia
- 2026 Updated List of Virginia Schools Offering CNA Classes
- Latest Articles & Guides
Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), also known as nurse aides, form the backbone of daily patient care across Virginia. In major health systems in Northern Virginia, Richmond, and Hampton Roads, as well as in community hospitals and long-term care centers statewide, CNAs assist with personal care, mobility, feeding, and monitoring patients’ conditions.
Virginia CNA training is designed to quickly prepare students for real-world patient care environments through classroom instruction and supervised clinical experience. These programs are often fast and affordable entry points into the healthcare workforce.
This guide covers:
- Virginia’s CNA training and certification requirements
- Required instructional and clinical hours
- What CNA classes typically include
- CNA program timelines and cost expectations
- How to compare CNA training options in Virginia
CNA Programs in Virginia: At-a-Glance
| Category | Virginia CNA Information |
| Minimum training hours required | 120 hours (state-approved) |
| Clinical requirement | Yes, supervised clinical training required |
| Certification exam | Virginia Nurse Aide Competency Exam |
| State registry | Virginia Nurse Aide Registry |
| Typical program length | Between 6–12 weeks |
| Typical total cost | $900–$2,200+ depending on provider |
| Average CNA Salary in Virginia | Approx. $31,000–$44,000 annually (varies by region and setting) |
Why Train as a CNA in Virginia?
Virginia's healthcare landscape includes large hospital networks, long-term care facilities, rehabilitation centers, and a growing home health services sector. An aging population and growing care needs drive steady demand for CNAs in both urban and rural areas.
CNA certification offers:
- Rapid workforce entry
- Experience that supports progression into LPN or RN programs
- Job opportunities across hospitals, skilled nursing, and home care
Virginia CNA Certification Step by Step
Here's how the certification process works in Virginia:
Complete Approved Training
Students must graduate from a state-approved CNA training program totaling at least 120 hours, including classroom and clinical instruction.
Pass the Competency Exam
Graduates take the Virginia Nurse Aide Competency Exam, which includes:
- A written or oral knowledge test
- A hands-on skills evaluation
Registry Placement
After passing, candidates are added to the Virginia Nurse Aide Registry, allowing legal employment as a CNA.
Maintaining Certification
To stay active on the registry, CNAs must typically meet employment requirements within the renewal period or requalify if requirements are not met.
Learn more about CNA certification.
CNA Curriculum & Clinical Training in Virginia
Virginia CNA programs emphasize practical, bedside care skills.
| Training Area | Skills Developed |
| Care Fundamentals | Infection control, safety, resident rights |
| Personal Care | Bathing, dressing, feeding, mobility |
| Monitoring | Vital signs and observation reporting |
| Communication | Teamwork and professionalism |
| Clinical Experience | Supervised hands-on patient care |
Clinical hours are completed in person at approved healthcare facilities.
How Long Does CNA Training Take in Virginia?
Most CNA programs in Virginia take about 6 to 12 weeks to complete. The exact timeline depends on:
- Full-time vs. part-time schedules
- Day, evening, or weekend classes
- Clinical rotation timing
Do Online CNA Programs Exist in Virginia?
Virginia does not permit CNA certification to be completed entirely online. Because CNAs provide hands-on patient care, students must complete in-person clinical training and skills practice before qualifying for testing.
Some schools may offer hybrid CNA programs, which typically include:
- Online coursework for theory topics such as infection control and safety
- In-person skills labs for practicing patient-care techniques
- Supervised clinical rotations in healthcare facilities
Even if some coursework is delivered online, students must complete hands-on clinical hours in person to qualify for the Virginia Nurse Aide Competency Exam and registry placement.
When researching programs, confirm:
- The balance of online vs. in-person hours
- Where clinical training occurs
- That the program is state-approved
2026 Fastest CNA Training Program Options in Virginia
Aspiring healthcare professionals in Virginia seeking to launch their careers quickly can find excellent Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training opportunities across the state. From Northern Virginia's bustling regions near Washington D.C. to Hampton Roads and Richmond, students have access to some of the shortest CNA certification paths available. These condensed programs prioritize efficient learning, allowing students to enter the healthcare workforce in a matter of weeks instead of months. With growing healthcare demands in Virginia, these accelerated training options provide a crucial pathway for individuals wanting to start meaningful medical careers rapidly. Whether you're looking to gain skills quickly or transition into healthcare swiftly, these programs offer streamlined educational experiences that balance comprehensive training with time-sensitive completion.
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Danville Community College |
|
|
| Germanna Community College |
|
|
| Laurel Ridge Community College |
|
|
*The data used in this analysis come from NCES's IPEDS 2024 survey.
2026 Affordable CNA Training Program Options in Virginia
Pursuing a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training program in Virginia offers aspiring healthcare professionals an accessible pathway into the medical field. With multiple affordable options across cities like Richmond, Norfolk, and Arlington, students can find programs that balance quality education with budget-friendly tuition. These certificate programs provide essential skills for entry-level healthcare careers, ensuring that financial constraints don't hinder career development. Virginia's educational landscape supports students by offering economical training options that prepare individuals for meaningful work in hospitals, nursing homes, and community health settings. By investing in these programs, students can launch their healthcare careers without overwhelming financial burden.
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Danville Community College |
|
|
| Germanna Community College |
|
|
| J Sargeant Reynolds Community College |
|
|
*Source: NCES, IPEDS 2024. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/
Virginia CNA Employment and Wages
Work setting can influence CNA salaries in Virginia:
| Work Setting | Pay Trend |
| Hospitals | Higher end of wage range |
| Long-term care facilities | Mid-range |
| Home health services | Variable, may include travel pay |
| Specialized care units | Often higher due to complexity |
CNA Salary in Virginia
| Location | Total Employment | Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 1,388,430 | $39,530 |
| Virginia | 42,760 | $38,790 |
Table data taken from 2024 BLS (http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes311131.htm)
Evaluating CNA Programs in Virginia: Good Signs vs Red Flags
| Strong Program | Possible Red Flag |
| Clearly states state approval | Doesn't mention approval status |
| Arranges clinical placements | Students must secure sites alone |
| Offers exam prep | No testing preparation support |
| Transparent tuition | Unclear or hidden fees |
| Employer connections | No career placement resources |
CNA vs Other Healthcare Roles in Virginia
| Role | Training Length | Main Focus | Advancement Path |
| CNA | Weeks | Direct patient support | LPN → RN |
| Medical Assistant | Months | Clinic care + admin | LPN/RN |
| LPN | ~1 year | Nursing care & meds | RN |
| RN | 2–4 years | Comprehensive nursing care | APRN/leadership |
Beginning as a CNA allows students to quickly gain real patient care experience while keeping options open for advanced nursing education. For career mobility, consider a CNA to RN program, or explore nursing schools in Virginia.
2026 Updated List of Virginia Schools Offering CNA Classes
Explore the latest CNA training opportunities across Virginia with our comprehensive 2026 guide. This updated list features schools offering Certified Nursing Assistant programs in various cities, providing aspiring healthcare professionals with essential pathways to kickstart their medical careers. Discover detailed program highlights, locations, and direct links to help you find the perfect CNA training program that matches your educational and professional goals.
Jump to City:
Abingdon, VA
Virginia Highlands Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Aid
Campus Based - Website
- 11-week intensive training
- Hands-on patient care skills
- Virginia Board of Nursing exam prep
- Multiple healthcare employment paths
- Flexible evening and weekend classes
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Aide - Career Studies Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for CNA license.
- Campus-based program.
- Qualifies for G3 funding.
- Affordable in-state tuition.
- No application fee.
- No SAT/ACT required.
- Pharmacy tech certification option.
- 17:1 student-instructor ratio.
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- 11-week program length.
- Hands-on patient care training.
- Prepares for Virginia nursing exam.
- Course fee $815 for residents.
- Evening classes twice weekly.
- Weekend clinical sessions.
- Career opportunities in healthcare.
- Financial assistance available.
Alberta, VA
Southside Virginia Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Aide Career Studies Certificate (Dual Enrollment Only)
Campus Based - Website
- Dual enrollment only program.
- Career Studies Certificate type.
- Focuses on nurse aide training.
- Part of Nursing/Health Science category.
- Campus-based instruction.
- Includes hands-on clinical components.
- Prepares for state certification.
- Entry-level healthcare skills.
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Aide Training
Campus Based - Website
- 7-week program length
- $3,396 tuition cost
- FastForward grant eligible
- Multiple campus locations
- Evening and weekend classes
- Classroom and lab instruction
- Clinical rotation included
- Workforce Development program
Annandale, VA
Northern Virginia Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Aide (CNA)
Campus Based - Website
- Workforce healthcare certification
- Continuing education program
- Industry-focused training
- Healthcare career preparation
- Professional development track
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Aide (CNA)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Nurse Aide (CNA) program
- Hybrid program format
- Industry certification preparation
- Workforce Healthcare division
- Continuing education training
- Professional development focus
- In-demand healthcare careers
- Workforce training programs
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Leads to CNA certification
- Part of workforce healthcare
- Continuing education training
- Industry certification preparation
- In-demand career training
- Workforce financial assistance available
- Professional development focus
Big Stone Gap, VA
Mountain Empire Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant (CNA), CSC
Campus Based - Website
- 16 total program credits.
- Campus-based program delivery.
- Prepares for Virginia CNA exams.
- Includes CPR certification.
- Requires drug screen check.
- Background check mandatory.
- Vaccination proof needed.
- Travel to clinical sites.
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for CNA certification.
- 16-credit program length.
- Campus-based instruction.
- Includes CPR certification.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Drug screening required.
- Background check needed.
- Health screenings mandatory.
Chester, VA
Brightpoint Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Aide/Medication Aide, CSC
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based healthcare training
- Internship field experience
- G3 tuition assistance available
- Learn safety and infection control
- Career-focused medical skills
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Aide/Medication Aide, CSC
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Career Studies Certificate program.
- Hybrid program format.
- Teaches nurse aide skills.
- Includes anatomy and physiology.
- Covers safety and infection control.
- Medical documentation training.
- Internship provides field experience.
- Eligible for G3 tuition assistance.
Chester Career College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Aide Diploma Program
Campus Based - Website
- 140 total clock hours
- Campus-based training program
- NNAAP® Certification Exam eligible
- Comprehensive patient care curriculum
- Classroom and clinical training
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- 140 total clock hours
- Campus-based program
- Nurse Aide Diploma Program
- Prepares for CNA certification
- Eligible for NNAAP exam
- Virginia licensure preparation
- 60 classroom lecture hours
- 40 lab activity hours
Clifton Forge, VA
Mountain Gateway Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- 120 hours of training.
- Includes lecture and labs.
- Instructor-led clinical experience.
- Background check required.
- Drug screen required.
- First-Aid/CPR course included.
- Campus-based program.
- FastForward financial assistance available.
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Aide
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 120 hours of training.
- Includes lecture, labs, clinicals.
- Background check required.
- Drug screen required.
- First-Aid/CPR course included.
- FastForward financial assistance available.
- Reduces tuition by two-thirds.
- Hybrid program format.
Danville, VA
Danville Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)
Campus Based - Website
- 5-week comprehensive training
- Total cost $3,495
- CPR and First Aid certified
- Diverse healthcare employment
- Financial aid available
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Aide Extended Care (CSC)
Campus Based - Website
- 16 total credit hours
- Prepares for CNA certification
- Additional first aid training
- CPR certification included
- Covers medical terminology
- Healthcare principle training
- Nutrition health insights
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Aide Extended Care
Campus Based - Website
- 16 credit minimum program
- Campus-based instruction
- Prepares for CNA certification
- Includes first aid training
- Includes CPR certification
- Includes medication aide training
- Career Studies Certificate award
- Background check requirements
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- 5-week program length
- Total cost $3,495
- Financial aid options available
- Campus-based training
- Classroom and hands-on learning
- Clinical experience included
- Virginia certification exam prep
- CPR and First Aid certification
Dublin, VA
New River Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- Career Studies Certificate option
- Workforce non-credit training
- Prepares for NNAAP exam
- Virginia Board of Nursing approved
- Campus-based program
- Office of Workforce Development
- Leads to CNA certification
- Contact workforce coaches
Franklin, VA
Paul D Camp Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - CSC Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- Career Studies Certificate program
- Prepares for CNA certification
- One academic year completion
- Campus-based program delivery
- NNAAP exam eligibility
- Virginia Board of Nursing approved
- Teaches therapeutic communication skills
- HIPAA compliance training
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- Career Studies Certificate program
- Prepares for nursing assistant employment
- Meets Virginia CNA certification requirements
- Full-time completion in one year
- Campus-based program delivery
- Includes NNAAP exam preparation
- Teaches therapeutic communication skills
- Covers HIPAA compliance training
Glenns, VA
Rappahannock Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Aide Certification Training
Campus Based - Website
- Short-term training program
- Prepares for state licensure exam
- Skills for multiple healthcare settings
- Practical hands-on learning
- Entry-level healthcare career pathway
- Certificate/Diploma - Patient Care Technician Certification
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 10-week program
- Hybrid learning format
- Earns two certifications
- Covers phlebotomy, EKGs
- Affordable with grant
- Starts February, April, September
- Prepares for high-demand careers
- Combines Nurse Aide, Medical Assisting
Hampton, VA
Virginia Peninsula Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)
Campus Based - Website
- 40-hour clinical internship
- Includes certification materials
- Low instructor-student ratio
- Non-credit workforce program
- Fast Forward scholarship eligible
- Background check required
- Must lift 50 lbs
- High school diploma needed
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- Certified Nurse Aide certificate.
- 40-hour clinical internship.
- Low instructor-student ratio.
- Prepares for Virginia CNA exam.
- Tuition includes exam voucher.
- Covers background check costs.
- Includes BLS certification.
- Provides clinical kit.
Locust Grove, VA
Germanna Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- 7-week program duration.
- Prepares for Virginia CNA certification.
- Includes clinical experience.
- Requires white uniform.
- Textbooks not included in tuition.
- Background check required.
- Drug test mandatory.
- Vaccines up-to-date needed.
Lynchburg, VA
Centra College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- 8-week program length
- Hybrid program format
- Campus locations in Lynchburg
- Bedford Memorial Hospital branch
- Appomattox branch location
- Clinical experience included
- Acute care facilities access
- Long-term care facilities access
Central Virginia Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Aid
Campus Based - Website
- Healthcare certification program
- NNAAP exam preparation
- Work in multiple healthcare settings
- State of Virginia approved
- Practical patient care skills
Martinsville, VA
Patrick & Henry Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for entry-level healthcare practice.
- Includes clinical experience in community agencies.
- Qualifies for Virginia certification exam.
- Focuses on patient care across all ages.
- Emphasizes special needs care.
- Campus-based program delivery.
- Leads to Nurse Aide Certification Test eligibility.
- Teaches basic patient care skills.
Middletown, VA
Laurel Ridge Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Aide Program (NUR 27)
Campus Based - Website
- Entry-level healthcare certification
- Certified Nursing Assistant preparation
- One-year program completion
- Affordable tuition rates
- Multiple campus locations available
- G3 Scholarship eligible
- Patient care skills training
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- Career Studies Certificate program.
- Nurse Aide Program (NUR 27).
- Eligible for Virginia CNA exam.
- One year program length.
- Two full-time semesters.
- Offered at multiple campuses.
- Middletown Campus location.
- Fauquier Campus location.
- Certificate/Diploma - Patient Care Technician / Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- Nurse Aide program (NUR 27).
- Eligible for Virginia CNA exam.
- Entry-level healthcare class.
- Teaches patient care skills.
- Career Studies Certificate program.
- 1 year program length.
- 2 full-time semesters.
- Campus-based program.
Newport News, VA
Riverside College of Health Careers
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- Six-week program length.
- Campus-based in Newport News.
- $700 total tuition.
- No prerequisite courses required.
- 2.0 high school GPA minimum.
- Earn-and-Learn tuition-free option.
- 72 academic instruction hours.
- 42 clinical skills lab hours.
Norfolk, VA
Tidewater Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Career Studies Certificate in Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- One semester program length.
- 9 credits total.
- Campus-based instruction.
- Virginia Beach Campus location.
- Teaches patient care fundamentals.
- Includes feeding and personal care.
- Covers charting and nutrition.
- Focuses on safety and infection control.
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Aide - Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- One semester program length
- 9 credits required
- Virginia Beach Campus location
- Career Studies Certificate
- Patient care fundamentals
- Feeding and personal care
- Charting and nutrition
- Safety and infection control
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- One-semester program length.
- 9 credits required.
- Campus-based instruction.
- Virginia Beach Campus location.
- Career Studies Certificate awarded.
- Teaches patient care fundamentals.
- Covers feeding and personal care.
- Includes charting and nutrition.
Richmond, VA
J Sargeant Reynolds Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for nursing careers.
- Focuses on long-term care.
- Requires high school diploma.
- Drug and background screening.
- TB test required.
- Tuition assistance available.
- For Virginia residents.
- Low-cost or free.
Roanoke, VA
Virginia Western Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- 28-day program length.
- 4 weeks classroom education.
- 40-hour clinical externship.
- Prepares for NNAAP certification.
- Estimated cost $3,495.
- FastForward assistance $1,165.
- G3 assistance $0 cost.
- Includes textbook and workbook.
Vienna, VA
Columbia College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- 120-hour comprehensive program
- 40-hour clinical externship included
- State-approved nursing curriculum
- Professional field instructors
- Prepares for CNA certification exam
- Multiple campus locations available
- Covers legal and ethical considerations
- Includes infection control training
*Data sourced from: NCES IPEDS survey, 2024. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/
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