CNA Classes in Columbia, Maryland

Columbia CNA Training - Maryland

You can receive your CNA certification in as little as 3 to 8 weeks.

Admissions Advisor Tip: Don't limit your options. Contact multiple schools to to compare their different offers, like financial aid packages.

Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Columbia, Maryland

About Columbia

Columbia, Maryland, is a vibrant and diverse planned community located in Howard County. Known for its high quality of life, Columbia offers a blend of urban and suburban living with numerous amenities, including parks, schools, and shopping centers. For more information about Columbia, visit the official Columbia, Maryland website.

CNA Training Programs in Columbia, Maryland

If you’re looking to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Columbia, Maryland, several local institutions offer CNA programs and courses. Here are three options to consider:

1. Howard Community College
   • Program: Nursing Assistant Program
   • Description: Howard Community College offers a comprehensive Nursing Assistant program that prepares students for the Maryland CNA certification exam. The program includes classroom instruction, lab practice, and clinical experiences.
   • Location: Columbia, MD
   • Website: Howard Community College Nursing Assistant Program
2. Brightwood College
   • Program: Nursing Assistant Training
   • Description: Brightwood College provides a Nursing Assistant training program aimed at equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the healthcare field. The program includes both theoretical and practical training.
   • Location: Towson, MD (approximately 30 miles from Columbia)
   • Website: Brightwood College Nursing Assistant Program
3. Baltimore City Community College
   • Program: Certified Nursing Assistant Program
   • Description: Baltimore City Community College offers a Certified Nursing Assistant program that includes classroom instruction, lab work, and clinical practice. This program prepares students for the Maryland CNA certification exam.
   • Location: Baltimore, MD (approximately 20 miles from Columbia)
   • Website: Baltimore City Community College CNA Program

CNA Employment Opportunities in Columbia

Columbia, Maryland, is home to several major healthcare facilities and nursing homes that frequently hire Certified Nursing Assistants. Here are some key employers in the area:

1. Howard County General Hospital
   • Description: A member of Johns Hopkins Medicine, Howard County General Hospital is a comprehensive, acute-care medical center providing a wide range of healthcare services.
   • Location: Columbia, MD
   • Website: Howard County General Hospital Careers
2. Lorien Health Services
   • Description: Lorien Health Services operates several nursing and rehabilitation centers throughout Maryland, including a location in Columbia. They offer various employment opportunities for CNAs.
   • Location: Columbia, MD
   • Website: Lorien Health Services Careers
3. Vantage House
   • Description: Vantage House is a senior living community in Columbia that offers independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing care. They frequently seek CNAs to join their team.
   • Location: Columbia, MD
   • Website: Vantage House Careers

CNA Certification Requirements in Maryland

To become a Certified Nursing Assistant in Maryland, you must meet the state-specific certification requirements. The Maryland Board of Nursing oversees the certification process. Here are the key steps:

1. Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program: You must complete a CNA training program approved by the Maryland Board of Nursing.
2. Pass the Competency Exam: After completing the training program, you must pass the CNA competency exam, which includes both written and skills components.
3. Submit an Application: Submit an application for certification to the Maryland Board of Nursing, including proof of training and exam results.
4. Background Check: Undergo a criminal background check as part of the certification process.

For more detailed information, visit the Maryland Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant in Columbia, Maryland, is a rewarding choice. With multiple local training programs and abundant employment opportunities, you can take the first step towards a fulfilling healthcare career. Contact a school today to learn more about their CNA programs and begin your journey.

PCT · CNA · CMA – What’s the Difference?

This depends on where you live. Some PCT courses include EKG and phlebotomy training. Some Patient Care Technician programs also include HHA (Home Health Aid) certification. However, in some work environments the titles CNA and PCT are used interchangably. Some hospitals in Maryland may be hiring Nurse Care Techs (NCT), a position which you can apply for with your CNA license.

CMA can stand for Certified Medication Aide or Certified Medical Assistant, both which perform separate but overlapping duties in the workplace.

How Much Does CNA Training Cost in Columbia?

Nursing assistant courses at vocational colleges and allied health schools usually range between $400 and $1200. When choosing a CNA school, learn about all the associated costs required at each institution. Some schools list their program cost as all expenses included. However other schools may also require you to purchase additional materials (such as books, scrubs and materials for your clinicals) which have separate fees from the tuition costs.

CNA Refresher Courses around Columbia usually cost around $100-$200.

Need Tuition Assistance?

While not all schools offer financial aid for students enrolled in their CNA course, some training programs may offer assistance to help with the cost of the course or certification. Also, some CNA employers will even pay for your Nurse Assistant training or reimburse you after you successfully complete your CNA training.

Some employers in Columbia will cover a percentage of your CNA tuition; others will pay tuition costs up to a specific dollar amount. Often, new CNAs are required to work a particular number of months at the employer that covered their school bills. Or you may just need to reimburse them for any of the tuition costs they paid on your behalf.

When Can I Start CNA Training in Columbia?

Many schools that offer CNA training have new sessions beginning every 6 to 8 weeks. In many areas in Maryland, you can find CNA training starting in November 2024, December 2024, January 2025, or February 2025 available for registration now. Unlike nursing programs in Maryland, you can usually find a school starting a new session of their CNA course fairly quickly. However, some schools offer CNA classes in semester format. At these schools, you may need to wait up 3 or 4 months to start your course.

Becoming a Nurse Aide in Columbia is a great way to quickly gain experience in the medical field. Also check out Maryland CNA Salary info.