Aspiring CNAs looking to start a career in healthcare can find a wide range of CNA classes and training programs offered by various institutions in Tallahassee. Our guide provides detailed information on the different types of CNA classes available, the requirements for enrollment, the duration of the courses, and the costs involved. Whether you’re a high school graduate, career changer, or looking to advance your career in healthcare, our guide will help you find the right CNA program that fits your needs.
Nurse Resource Training Center
The Nursing Assistant Program offered by Nurse Resource Training Center is a comprehensive training program designed to equip students with the fundamental skills required for providing basic care in various healthcare settings. The curriculum combines classroom learning, hands-on laboratory practice, and supervised clinical training in a Long-Term Care facility. It’s crucial to note that all clinical experiences are conducted under the direct supervision of the program’s approved instructor.
Course Requirements:
To enroll in this program, students must meet certain requirements, including being at least 18 years old, having a high school diploma or GED, providing a government-issued ID, having legal US citizenship or approved immigrant status, and completing a criminal background check.
Class Schedules:
The Nursing Assistant Program is structured as a 7-week course with both day and evening class options. Daytime classes are held from Monday to Thursday with classroom and lab sessions from 9:00 am to 2:15 pm, followed by clinical sessions. Evening classes follow a similar schedule with classroom and lab sessions from 4:00 pm to 9:15 pm, followed by clinical sessions. This program offers flexibility to accommodate various schedules.
Program Description:
This program aims to prepare students for the Nursing Assistant profession, providing them with the skills and knowledge required to offer care in settings such as nursing homes, hospice care, hospitals, and home care. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including communication, recognizing medical emergencies, basic first aid, CPR, vital signs, observation and reporting, infection prevention, and more. Upon successful program completion, students are prepared to take the Nursing Assistant state certification exam, which, if passed, enables them to become Certified Nursing Assistants.
Graduates of this program can pursue entry-level employment opportunities in hospitals, nursing homes, home health, hospice facilities, and other healthcare settings. An admission exam is not required, making it accessible to aspiring Nursing Assistants.
Tuition and Fees:
Students are required to pay a non-refundable application fee of $65, which is separate from the program’s tuition. Additionally, there is an expense of $270 for books and supplies, also non-refundable but included in the total program cost. The tuition itself amounts to $770.00, and the total program price, including all fees, is $1,105.00.
This program offers a well-rounded education and training for individuals aspiring to become Certified Nursing Assistants. It not only prepares students for the certification exam but also equips them with practical skills required in the healthcare field. The flexibility of day and evening classes makes it accessible to a wider range of students, and the focus on clinical experiences ensures that students are well-prepared for real-world healthcare settings.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $1,105 (including all fees) |
| Program Duration | 7 weeks |
| Class Schedules | Day and Evening classes available |
| Prerequisites | 18 years of age or older, High School Diploma or GED, Government-issued ID, Legal US Citizenship or approved immigrant status, Completed Criminal Background Check |
| Certification Eligibility | Graduates can take the Nursing Assistant state certification exam to become Certified Nursing Assistants |
| Location | 850-792-6619 |
| Phone | 2507 Callaway Road, Suite 205, Tallahassee, FL 32303 |
| Website | Nurse Resource Training Center |
| Job Placement | No |
| Online Classes | No |
| Free Classes | No |
Tallahassee Community College
TCC’s CNA program is designed to prepare students to serve as entry-level healthcare workers, specifically as certified nurse assistants. It equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work safely and effectively as part of the healthcare team. Successful program completion makes students eligible to take the state certification test for nursing assistants.
Program Length and Admission Requirements
This program spans 120 clock hours and offers a practical pathway to a career as a nurse assistant in a hospital or another healthcare facility. To enroll, applicants are required to have a high school diploma or GED diploma. Additionally, students must pass a Level 1 background check and a drug screen, both at their expense. Immunizations and screening, including a seasonal flu vaccine, negative TB screening, and two immunizations for MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) or a positive titer, are mandatory.
Basic Life Support Certification
To ensure students are well-prepared, they must hold Basic Life Support (BLS/CPR) certification from the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross. No other courses are accepted, and it must be a hands-on certification, not online. This certification is also at the student’s expense.
Application Process
Applicants must submit both a general TCC application and a Nurse Assistant program application before the published deadline. It’s important to note that students are responsible for the costs associated with background and drug screening. Additionally, there may be additional fees for third-party or court access costs, CPR certification, books, and uniforms.
Program Details and Contact Information
This course at TCC is designed to provide students with both theoretical knowledge and clinical experience necessary to become safe and competent care providers at the nurse assistant level. The program consists of 80 clock hours of lecture and 40 clock hours of clinical work, with an additional fee. Successful completion of the course qualifies students to take the state certification test for nursing assistants.
TCC’s CNA program provides an essential foundation for students aspiring to work in healthcare as nurse assistants. With a balanced curriculum, hands-on experience, and a strong emphasis on professional conduct, it offers a practical route to CNA certification and employment in the healthcare sector.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | Undisclosed |
| Program Duration | 120 clock hours |
| Class Schedules | Information Not Provided |
| Prerequisites | High school diploma or GED diploma Level 1 background check at student expense Drug screen at student expense Immunizations and screening, including seasonal flu vaccine, negative TB screening, two MMR immunizations or positive titer, two varicella immunizations or positive titer, or proof of disease history Basic Life Support (BLS/CPR) certification from the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross, hands-on, at student expense |
| Certification Eligibility | Eligible to take the Florida state certification test for certified nursing assistants |
| Location | Tallahassee Community College, 444 Appleyard Drive, Tallahassee, FL 32304 |
| Phone | (850) 201-6200 |
| No | |
| Website | TCC CNA Program |
| Job Placement | Information Not Provided |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Free Classes? | No |
Goodwill Big Bend – Free CNA Program
The Goodwill Big Bend Free CNA Program offers a unique and valuable opportunity for individuals looking to enter the healthcare field. This program combines classroom instruction and supervised clinical training, providing students with a strong foundation in safe and knowledgeable caregiving. What sets this program apart is that it’s entirely free, making it an excellent option for those seeking cost-effective training.
Curriculum
The program covers essential topics, preparing students for the Florida Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Competency Evaluation Testing Program. It not only equips students with the skills necessary for CNA certification but also offers a Work Readiness curriculum. This additional curriculum focuses on resume development, workplace professionalism, interviewing skills, work ethics, basic computer proficiency, and effective communication.
Fast-Track Career Training
Goodwill recognizes that traditional higher education isn’t the right fit for everyone. Their program is tailored for individuals who want to quickly transition into the workforce, start earning income, and advance their careers. The emphasis is on providing fast-track career training that leads to job security, competitive wages, and growth opportunities. It’s an inclusive and supportive learning environment that prioritizes students’ success, irrespective of their educational background.
Affordable Education
One of the standout features of the Goodwill Big Bend free CNA program is that it’s offered at little to no cost to qualifying students. This affordability makes it an attractive option for individuals looking to pursue a new career without the financial burden often associated with education and training programs.
Connect with Employers
Goodwill goes a step further by connecting program graduates with potential employers in their field of study. This support in job placement enhances the chances of students finding suitable employment after completing the program.
The Goodwill Big Bend Free CNA Program is a fantastic opportunity for those who want to kickstart their career in healthcare without the financial burden. With a comprehensive curriculum, an emphasis on job readiness, and the added bonus of being cost-effective, it’s a smart choice for aspiring CNAs in the Tallahassee area.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free |
| Program Duration | Information Not Provided |
| Class Schedules | Variable |
| Prerequisites | None |
| Certification Eligibility | Florida Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Competency Evaluation Testing Program |
| Location | 300 Mabry St., Tallahassee, FL 32304 |
| Phone | (850) 608-0557 |
| No | |
| Website | Goodwill Big Bend Certification Programs |
| Job Placement | Yes (Connects program graduates with potential employers) |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Free Classes? | Yes (For qualifying students) |
Lively Technical College
Lively Technical College offers a Nursing Assistant (Articulated) program with multiple cohort options to accommodate various schedules. This program is designed to prepare students for employment as nursing assistants, nursing aides, and orderlies, whether in hospitals, health clinics, nursing homes, or home health care agencies. It equips students with the essential nursing skills needed to provide competent and compassionate care to patients.
Program Overview
Lively Technical College’s Nursing Assistant program offers a sequence of courses that cover a wide range of healthcare topics, including basic healthcare worker skills, nurse aide and orderly tasks, and advanced home health aide training. The curriculum provides both theoretical knowledge and hands-on clinical experience under the guidance of qualified registered nurse instructors. Students must accumulate a minimum of 40 hours of clinical experience, with at least 20 hours taking place in a licensed nursing home, to complete the program successfully. Graduates of this program are well-prepared for the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification.
Employment Opportunities
Upon completing the program and obtaining CNA certification, graduates have various employment opportunities, including hospitals, health clinics, nursing and residential care facilities, and home health care agencies. Students learn practical skills such as repositioning patients, taking vital signs, assisting with medical procedures, and providing personal care. This comprehensive training ensures that students are job-ready and equipped with the knowledge and skills required in the healthcare industry.
Program Schedule and Costs
Lively Technical College offers multiple cohort options, including summer and fall cohorts, both during the day and at night, as well as spring cohorts. The costs associated with the program include tuition, registration fees, facility fees, lab fees, drug screening, liability insurance, and the purchase of scrubs, with a total estimated cost of $735.04 for Florida residents. These various scheduling options provide flexibility for students to choose a cohort that best suits their needs and availability.
COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement
Lively Technical College is committed to adhering to evolving regulations regarding COVID-19 vaccinations. As some healthcare facilities may require specific vaccinations, students should be aware that they might need to obtain a COVID-19 vaccine to comply with clinical site requirements. Failure to meet this requirement could result in withdrawal from the program.
Lively Technical College offers students the opportunity to pursue a rewarding career in healthcare as nursing assistants. The program’s comprehensive curriculum, flexibility in scheduling, and preparation for CNA certification make it an excellent choice for those aspiring to enter the healthcare industry.
The program is offered at the following locations:
- Lively Technical College, 500 N Appleyard Drive, Tallahassee, FL 32304. Contact at (850) 487-7555.
- SAIL High School, 2006 Jackson Bluff Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32304. For inquiries, reach out to Dr. Browning, Assistant Principal for Curriculum, at 850-488-2468 or [email protected].
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $735.04 (Florida Resident Tuition) |
| Program Duration | Varies by cohort; typically a few months |
| Class Schedules | Day and night cohorts available |
| Prerequisites | High school diploma or GED, background check, drug screening, immunizations |
| Certification Eligibility | Eligible for Florida Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification |
| Location | Lively Technical College: 500 N Appleyard Drive, Tallahassee, FL 32304 SAIL High School: 2006 Jackson Bluff Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32304. |
| Phone | Lively Technical College: (850) 487-7555 SAIL High School: (850) 488-2468 |
| Website | Lively Technical College SAIL High School |
| Job Placement | No |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Free Classes? | Only for high school students through SAIL High School |
FL Health Science Consulting
This blended program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed for the certification exam and subsequent employment as Nursing Assistants. The program encompasses 40 hours of classroom and lab instruction, ensuring that students gain a well-rounded understanding of their future role. To be eligible for the certification examination, students must successfully complete both the classroom and lab components of the course.
Cost and Payment Options
FL Health Science Consulting’s Nursing Assistant Training Program comes at a cost of $895. While this cost does not include state certification exam or screening fees, the program does offer payment plans with Affirm to make it more accessible to aspiring students. All fees, including tuition, are nonrefundable.
Certification and Eligibility
Graduates of this program will be on their way to becoming a certified nursing assistant (CNA) in the State of Florida. Florida’s requirements for nursing assistants include having a standard high school diploma or GED, being 18 years of age, and passing a state and national background check. It’s important to provide documentation of your high school diploma or GED, date of birth, and certifications in Basic Life Support (BLS CPR) and First Aid before the first day of class.
Program Delivery and Duration
Taught by a qualified nurse instructor with professional experience, this Nurse Assistant Training program delivers a curriculum that adheres to state and federal education regulations. The course content focuses on critical thinking, decision-making, and teamwork, emphasizing essential care and communication/interpersonal skills.
Students enrolling in this program can generally expect to complete their training and be prepared to take the state certification exam within 2 to 4 weeks after completing the course.
Location and Contact Information
FL Health Science Consulting’s Nursing Assistant Training Program is located at 2507 Callaway Road, Suite 205, Tallahassee, FL 32303. For further inquiries and to get started on your CNA journey, you can reach them at 850-559-1678.
FL Health Science Consulting offers a Nursing Assistant Training Program that equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to pursue a career as CNAs in Florida. While there is a cost associated with the program, payment plans are available for greater affordability. The course prepares students to meet certification requirements and provides a comprehensive understanding of the role. If you’re looking to start your CNA career, this program is worth considering.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $895 (Payment plans available with Affirm) |
| Program Duration | 3 weeks, 6 total classes, 40 total hours |
| Class Schedules | Weekend classes |
| Prerequisites | High school diploma or equivalent, at least 18 years of age, and other requirements (see description) |
| Certification Eligibility | Graduates can pursue certification as CNAs in the State of Florida |
| Location | 2507 Callaway Road, Suite 205, Tallahassee, FL 32303 |
| Phone | 850-559-1678 |
| Website | FL Health Science Consulting |
| Job Placement | No |
| Online Classes | No |
| Free Classes | No |
Tallahassee CNA Requirements
In Florida, there are numerous state-approved CNA programs monitored by the Nurse Aide Registry. Including the programs located in Tallahassee listed in the table above, there are 355 accredited and approved program locations throughout the state. The cost of most programs ranges from about $600 – $1,500, which includes expenses for the uniform, supplies, and the program itself.
Upon completion of CNA classes, you can take the certification examination to become certified. There are several fees associated with this process, including a processing fee of $25, a background screening fee of $40.50, and an examination fee of $93. It’s important to note that the Nurse Aide Registry will make you ineligible to work as a CNA if you have a criminal record that includes felony convictions, theft, abuse, or violent crimes.
To be eligible to take the CNA exam in Florida, you must complete a state-approved program with a minimum of 120 hours of instruction, which includes 80 hours of classroom instruction and 40 hours of clinical experience. However, there are alternate paths for those who are not New Nurse Aide Candidates, including current enrollment in a state-approved nurse assistant program, the Challenger approach which allows you to take the exam without prior nurse assistant training, having taken another nursing course within the last two years, or if you have a lapsed certification of nurse aide.
Employment & Salary Data
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there were 1,340 certified nursing assistants (CNAs) employed in Tallahassee, Florida, as of May 2023. The average annual salary for these CNAs was reported to be $31,440, with an average hourly wage of $15.12.
Comparing this information to the average salary and hourly wages for CNAs in the state of Florida as a whole, we can see that Tallahassee CNAs earn less than their counterparts in other parts of the state. The BLS reported the average salary for CNAs in Florida to be $36,750, which is $5,310 more than the average salary for CNAs in Tallahassee. Similarly, the average hourly wage for CNAs in Florida was reported to be $16.67, which is $1.55 more than the average hourly wage for CNAs in Tallahassee.
It’s worth noting that the cost of living in Tallahassee may be lower than other parts of Florida, which could explain the lower average salary and hourly wages for CNAs in this area. Additionally, factors such as education and experience may also play a role in determining CNA salaries and wages.
Overall, while the average annual salary and hourly wage for CNAs in Tallahassee are lower than the statewide average, they still represent a meaningful source of income for many healthcare workers in the area.