CNA Classes in Columbia, South Carolina

Columbia CNA Training - South Carolina

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, South Carolina

About Columbia

Columbia, the capital city of South Carolina, is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and bustling community. Nestled in the heart of the state, Columbia boasts beautiful landmarks such as the South Carolina State House and Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. With a blend of urban amenities and southern charm, Columbia is an excellent place to begin your journey as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). For more information about the city, visit the official Columbia website.

CNA Training Programs in Columbia, South Carolina

If you’re looking to become a nursing assistant in Columbia, several local schools offer CNA programs and courses designed to equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge. Here are three notable options:

1. Midlands Technical College
   • Description: Midlands Technical College offers a comprehensive Nursing Assistant program that prepares students for the South Carolina Nurse Aide Registry exam. The program includes classroom instruction, lab practice, and clinical experience.
   • Location: Northeast Campus, Columbia, SC
   • Program Details: Midlands Technical College CNA Program
2. Fortis College
   • Description: Fortis College provides a Nursing Assistant program that combines theoretical learning with hands-on clinical training. This program aims to prepare students for entry-level positions in various healthcare settings.
   • Location: St. Andrews neighborhood, Columbia, SC
   • Program Details: Fortis College CNA Program
3. Palmetto Health Richland
   • Description: Palmetto Health Richland offers a Nurse Aide Training program that includes both classroom education and practical experience in a healthcare setting. Graduates are eligible to take the state certification exam.
   • Location: Downtown Columbia, SC
   • Program Details: Palmetto Health Richland CNA Program

CNA Employment Opportunities in Columbia

Once certified, Columbia offers numerous employment opportunities for CNAs in various healthcare facilities and nursing homes. Here are some major employers:

1. Prisma Health
   • Description: Prisma Health is the largest healthcare system in South Carolina, offering a wide range of services and employment opportunities for CNAs. They have multiple locations throughout Columbia.
   • Location: Various locations, including Downtown Columbia
   • Employment Opportunities: Prisma Health Careers
2. Lexington Medical Center
   • Description: Known for its excellent patient care and state-of-the-art facilities, Lexington Medical Center provides numerous job openings for nursing assistants.
   • Location: West Columbia, SC
   • Employment Opportunities: Lexington Medical Center Careers
3. Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Columbia
   • Description: Specializing in rehabilitation services, Encompass Health offers various positions for CNAs to support patient recovery.
   • Location: Forest Acres neighborhood, Columbia, SC
   • Employment Opportunities: Encompass Health Careers

CNA Certification Requirements in South Carolina

To become a Certified Nursing Assistant in South Carolina, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Complete a State-Approved Training Program: Enroll in and complete a state-approved CNA training program.
2. Pass the Competency Exam: Successfully pass the South Carolina Nurse Aide Competency Exam.
3. Register with the South Carolina Nurse Aide Registry: Once you pass the exam, you must register with the South Carolina Nurse Aide Registry.

For detailed information, visit the South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant in Columbia, South Carolina, is a rewarding and fulfilling journey. With numerous training programs and employment opportunities available, now is the perfect time to take the first step. Contact one of the local schools today to learn more about their CNA programs and start your path toward a successful healthcare career.

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 South Carolina 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 South Carolina, you can find CNA training starting in November 2024, December 2024, January 2025, or February 2025 available for registration now. Unlike nursing programs in South Carolina, 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 South Carolina CNA Salary info.