CNA Classes & Programs in Delaware
- CNA Programs in Delaware: At-a-Glance
- Why Become a CNA in Delaware?
- Delaware CNA Training & Certification
- CNA Curriculum & Clinical Training in Delaware
- How Long Does it Take to Become a CNA in Delaware?
- Do Online CNA Programs Exist in Delaware?
- 2026 Fastest CNA Training Program Options in Delaware
- 2026 Affordable CNA Training Program Options in Delaware
- Delaware CNA Employment and Wages
- How to Choose the Right CNA Program in Delaware
- CNA vs Other Healthcare Roles in Delaware
- 2026 Updated List of Delaware Schools Offering CNA Classes
- Latest Articles & Guides
Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) play an essential role in Delaware’s healthcare system, supporting patients and nursing staff in hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and long-term care facilities. In a small but densely populated state, CNAs help ensure continuity of care across both urban and community-based healthcare settings.
Delaware’s healthcare workforce continues to rely on trained CNAs to meet the needs of an aging population and expanding long-term care services. CNA programs provide a practical, relatively quick pathway into healthcare while offering hands-on experience that can support future nursing advancement.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- Delaware’s CNA training and certification requirements
- What CNA classes and clinical training include
- How long it takes to become a CNA in Delaware
- Whether online CNA training is permitted
- How to choose a Delaware-approved CNA program
CNA Programs in Delaware: At-a-Glance
| Category | Delaware CNA Information |
| Minimum training hours required | 150 total hours (state minimum) |
| Clinical requirement | Yes, supervised clinical training required |
| Certification exam | National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) |
| State registry | Delaware Nurse Aide Registry (Division of Health Care Quality) |
| Typical program length | Approx. 6–12 weeks |
| Typical total cost | $900–$2,500 (varies by provider) |
| Average CNA salary in Delaware | Between $36,000–$44,000 annually |
Why Become a CNA in Delaware?
Delaware has one of the fastest-growing older adult populations in the Mid-Atlantic region, increasing demand for skilled long-term and post-acute care services. CNAs are central to meeting this demand, providing daily patient care and support in nursing homes, assisted living communities, and hospital settings.
The state employs thousands of nursing assistants (also called “nurse aides”), particularly in long-term care and rehabilitation facilities. CNA training offers a short, relatively low-cost entry point into healthcare, making it an appealing option for individuals seeking stable employment or a foundation for future nursing education.
Delaware CNA Training & Certification
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant in Delaware, candidates must complete a state-approved Nurse Aide Training Program and pass the required competency exam before being placed on the Delaware Nurse Aide Registry.
Training Requirements
Delaware requires CNA programs to include at least 150 total training hours, which combine classroom instruction, skills lab practice, and supervised clinical experience. All programs must meet standards set by the Delaware Division of Health Care Quality.
Certification Exam
After completing training, candidates must pass the NNAAP exam, which includes:
- A written or oral knowledge test
- A skills evaluation demonstrating core CNA competencies
Both portions must be passed to earn certification and eligibility for registry placement.
Registry & Renewal
Once certified, CNAs are listed on the Delaware Nurse Aide Registry, which employers use to verify credentials. To remain active, CNAs must meet renewal requirements, which typically include documented paid employment as a nurse aide within the renewal cycle.
CNA Curriculum & Clinical Training in Delaware
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 recording vital signs |
| Communication & Professionalism | Patient interaction, teamwork, ethics |
| Clinical Training | Supervised hands-on patient care practice |
Clinical training in Delaware typically occurs in licensed nursing homes, long-term care facilities, or rehabilitation centers. Supervised clinical experience is required and is included within the 150-hour state minimum, allowing students to apply classroom instruction in real healthcare environments.
How Long Does it Take to Become a CNA in Delaware?
Typically, CNA programs in Delaware take approximately 6 to 12 weeks to complete. Program length varies depending on whether students attend full-time or part-time and how clinical rotations are scheduled. Some adult education and healthcare-based programs may offer flexible pacing options.
Do Online CNA Programs Exist in Delaware?
Delaware does not approve fully online CNA programs for certification. Because hands-on patient care is a core component of CNA training, all students must complete in-person skills labs and supervised clinical hours.
Some programs offer hybrid CNA classes, where portions of the classroom instruction are delivered online. However, all clinical training must be completed in person at an approved facility to qualify for CNA certification and exam eligibility.
2026 Fastest CNA Training Program Options in Delaware
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Delaware Technical Community College-Terry |
|
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2026 Affordable CNA Training Program Options in Delaware
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Delaware Technical Community College-Terry |
|
|
Delaware CNA Employment and Wages
CNA wages in Delaware are competitive with regional averages and reflect steady demand across long-term care and healthcare facilities statewide. Generally, CNA salaries in the state can vary by employer type, location, experience level, and shift schedules.
CNA Salary in Delaware
| Location | Total Employment | Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 1,388,430 | $39,530 |
| Delaware | 5,660 | $39,240 |
Table data taken from 2024 BLS (http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes311131.htm)
How to Choose the Right CNA Program in Delaware
Not all CNA training programs in Delaware offer the same experience or outcomes, so it's important to look beyond location or price when comparing options. A strong program should prepare you not only to pass the certification exam, but also to feel confident in real patient-care settings.
Start by confirming that the program meets Delaware's state approval standards, which ensures you're eligible for the nurse aide competency exam and registry placement. From there, consider how the program approaches hands-on training; clinical rotations at well-established long-term care facilities or healthcare centers can make a meaningful difference in skill development.
You may also want to evaluate:
- Program pacing and format: Full-time, part-time, or hybrid schedules can affect how quickly you complete training
- Cost transparency: Make sure tuition details clearly outline what's included, such as uniforms, textbooks, lab fees, and exam preparation
- Graduate support: Some programs offer job placement assistance or maintain relationships with local healthcare employers
Choosing a CNA program that aligns with your learning style, schedule, and career goals can help set the foundation for long-term success in Delaware's healthcare workforce.
CNA vs Other Healthcare Roles in Delaware
CNA training is often used as a starting point before advancing into other healthcare careers.
| Role | Education & Training Length | Scope of Practice | Common Delaware Work Settings |
| CNA | Short-term program (150 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 |
Those looking to advance from a CNA role may wish to pursue a nursing career; CNA to RN programs can make this transition easier. Also consider nursing schools in Delaware for information on nursing programs.
2026 Updated List of Delaware Schools Offering CNA Classes
Dover, DE
Delaware Technical Community College-Terry
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nursing Assistant CNA
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program delivery.
- Includes clinical experience component.
- Teaches employment readiness skills.
- Covers soft skills training.
- Part of workforce training programs.
- Offered through continuing education.
- Located at Dover campus.
- Includes student laboratory work.
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nursing Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- Certificate program in health care.
- Includes Certified Nursing Assistant course.
- Taught through lectures and labs.
- Offers clinical experience training.
- Focuses on employment readiness skills.
- Provides soft skills development.
- Includes internship opportunities.
- Campus-based program in Dover.
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