CNA Classes & Programs in New Jersey

Certified nurse assistants, or CNAs, are front-line healthcare workers who perform a multitude of tasks. They check vital signs, assist with feeding, bathing, and patient mobility, and measure/ monitor a patient’s intake and output. They report to licensed nursing staff so clinical decisions and care plans can be updated. Physicians even use the information that CNAs collect to make medical decisions in a patient’s care. Becoming a certified nursing assistant in New Jersey is also very lucrative. There is an expected job growth of 12% until 2026. Additionally, the median wage for CNAs in New Jersey is above the national average- $29,470 compared to $28,540.

Choosing the Best CNA Programs in New Jersey

Prospective certified nurse assistants must first complete a training and program which usually lasts a few weeks. They must then sit for a certification exam, then register in the state of New Jersey to be able to work as a CNA. For detailed information on admission requirements for CNA programs, please visit our CNA Training Programs Admissions page.

In New Jersey, aspiring nurse assistants must complete a total of 90 training hours- 50 hours of classroom work and 40 of hands-on clinical time.

There are a few additional factors that prospective CNA students must consider, as listed below:

• Program Length: As stated earlier students must complete a total of 90 training hours to sit for the certification exam. Training programs are offered at community colleges, vocational schools, long-term care facilities, and high schools. Depending on the school, training can last several weeks.

• Program Cost: The cost for a CNA program in New Jersey depends on the school/ program. For example, one community college lists the fee for the program at a little over $3,000. Many of the schools offer financial aid or payment plans which help students reach their career goals.

• Board Approved Programs: It is imperative that students select a CNA program endorsed by the state of New Jersey. The state's department of health lists the approved CNA training programs to assist students in ensuring the courses meet state requirements for certification. To learn more, check out the CNA certification requirements for New Jersey.

• Online/In-Person Options: Some courses may be available online, especially through community colleges. Online learning helps students who may need to continue working or who have family obligations. However, students must realize that a portion of a CNA program requires hands-on learning in the field- so no CNA program can be 100% online.

2023 List of CNA Classes in New Jersey

To get a feel for the CNA curriculum in New Jersey, see our list of classes and courses available in the state:

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.