Free guide to CNA training classes and education programs in Massachusetts (MA)














Certified Nurse Aides (known as CNAs) are in high demand across the country, including Massachusetts. In order to sit for the CNA certification exam in Massachusetts, you must first either complete a state approved training program or submit documentation that you are a licensed CNA in another state and are currently in good standing with the board of nursing in that state. Nursing assistants can find employment in many different settings including hospitals, hospice centers, rehabilitation centers and nursing homes. They are instrumental in the care and treatment of many patients and work under the supervision of a registered nurse or physician.


How Can I Find CNA Training Programs Near Me?


Browse our list of Massachusetts schools that offer CNA training courses to become a certified nursing assistant. Nurse aide programs are usually offered at community colleges, junior colleges, trade schools and technical/vocational schools. Our directory includes as many CNA programs as possible, but is not complete as there may be additional CNA programs that are not listed here. Many long-term care facilities offer CNA training to current employees and trainees. In many cases these programs are not widely advertised, but can be found by calling the facilities directly.






How Much Can You Make as a CNA in Massachusetts?


There are many factors that motivate individuals to pursue careers as nursing assistants. One of the most common reasons for choosing an occupation as a health care provider is compassion for people. Many doctors and nurses derive great personal fulfillment from giving quality care to those in need. These types of positions also require a great deal of resilience, as providers will be exposed to patients suffering from painful diseases, life-altering injuries and terminal illnesses. If you feel that you encompass the skill set and desire to become a CNA then the next step is to start researching available training programs in Massachusetts. The average salary for a CNA in Massachusetts is $50,435 per year.


How to Become a CNA in Massachusetts


Students can earn their CNA certification and start their career as a certified nursing assistant in less than six months. The first step is to find and complete an approved CNA training program. Each individual state sets its own required amount of credit hours necessary to become a CNA. Typical programs take around 6-12 weeks to complete and must include a minimum of 75 hours of training. The average cost of a CNA course is between $800 – $1,500. The second step is to take the Massachusetts CNA certification exam and achieve a passing score. The third and final step is to register with the Massachusetts Nurse Aide Registry as a Certified Nursing Assistant.


Can I Transfer My CNA License to Massachusetts?


If you are a certified nursing assistant from another state and have just moved to Massachusetts you can apply to the Nursing Aide Registry in Massachusetts for what is called “reciprocity”. As long as you can provide verification that you completed a state approved CNA certification program, are currently certified in another state, and have worked as a CNA recently. You would not need to take the Massachusetts exam or training if you are granted reciprocity. All CNA licenses need to be renewed every two years and must have worked a minimum of 160 hours within those two years.


How Much Does CNA Training Cost? How Long Does it Take?


Before preparing for the CNA competency evaluation exam, candidates must complete a 100-hour course that includes both classroom and clinical learning. For the classroom portion students will learn from a textbook in a typical classroom setting. Some online CNA classes are offered, but the clinical practice still has to be completed in person. The clinical training usually takes place in a nursing home or hospital and provides hands-on experience learning how to properly treat patients. In this segment you will learn how to assist patients with their daily activities, such as brushing their teeth, personal grooming, eating, toileting and bathing. You will also learn how to prevent or reduce patient injuries, provide basic first aid, and understand patient rights. All of these aspects are very important parts of CNA training and will be required to pass the certification test.


Once you complete the education program you can schedule a test date. Be sure to apply for the testing as soon as possible as you may have to wait up to 28 days before a seat becomes available. After taking the exam you will be informed that day if you passed, however, this will not become official until you receive your certificate in the mail.




CNA Training Programs in Massachusetts (MA)








American Red Cross – South, Quincy


1495 Hancock Street, Quincy, MA 02169


American Red Cross CNA / HHA Training – Westfield


48 Broad Street, Westfield, Massachusetts 01085


American Red Cross CNA Course – Southeast, Brockton


281 Pleasant Street, Brockton, MA 02301


American Red Cross CNA Program – North, Melrose


786 Main Street, Melrose, Massachusetts 02176


American Red Cross CNA Training Course – South Coast, New Bedford


995 Rockdale Avenue, New Bedford, MA 02740


American Red Cross Nurse Aide Training – Cambridge Headquarters, Central


139 Main Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142


American Red Cross Nurse Aide Training Course – South Coast, Fall River


315 Pleasant Street, Fall River, Massachusetts 02721


American Red Cross Nurse Assistant / HHA – Northampton


125 State Street, Northampton, Massachusetts 01060


American Red Cross Nurse Assistant / HHA Training – Leominster


29 Main Street, Leominster, Massachusetts 01453


American Red Cross Nurse Assistant / Home Health Aide Training – Worcester


2000 Century Drive, Worcester, Massachusetts 01606


American Red Cross Nurse Assistant / Home Health Aide Training – Springfield


506 Cottage Street, Springfield, Massachusetts 01104


American Red Cross Nurse Assistant / Home Health Aide Training – Pittsfield


480 West Street, Pittsfield, Massachusetts 01201



American Red Cross Nurse Assistant Program – North, Peabody


85 Lowell Street, Peabody, MA 01960


American Red Cross Nursing Assistant Program – MetroWest, Waltham


863-867 Main Street, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451


Bristol Community College – Attleboro


135 County Street, Attleboro, MA 02703


Bristol Community College – Fall River


777 Elsbree Street, Fall River, MA 02720


Bristol Community College Nurse Aide Program – New Bedford


188 Union Street, New Bedford, Massachusetts 02740


Bunker Hill Community College – Boston


250 New Rutherford Ave, Boston, MA 02129


Cape Cod Community College Nurse Aide Course – West Barnstable


2240 Iyannough Road, West Barnstable, Massachusetts 02668


Catholic Charities Archdiocese of Boston CNA/HHA Training Class – Labour Center


275 West Broadway, South Boston, MA 021271


Catholic Charities South Nurse Assistant and Home Health Aide Program – Brockton


157 Centre Street, Brockton, MA 02302


Community Action Inc. – Haverhill


145 Essex Street, Haverhill, MA 01832


Health Care Training Services (HCTS) CNA Class – Fall River


657 Quarry Street, Fall River, Massachusetts 02723


North-Shore Community College Nursing Assistant Course – Danvers


1 Ferncroft Road, Danvers, Massachusetts 01923


Springfield Technical Community College


One Armory Square, Suite 1, Springfield, MA 01102