Top CNA Programs in Norfolk VA: Your Guide to Certification and Career Success
If you’re exploring a healthcare career with a fast path to certification and real-world impact,pursuing a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program in Norfolk,VA is a smart move. CNAs play a vital role in patient care, supporting nurses and other clinicians in long-term care facilities, hospitals, clinics, and home health settings. This guide highlights reputable CNA programs in Norfolk and the surrounding Hampton Roads area, explains how certification works in Virginia, and offers practical tips to help you choose the right program and succeed in your new career.
Why choose a CNA program in Norfolk, VA?
- Regional demand: Norfolk and the broader Hampton Roads area have a steady need for CNAs, with opportunities in hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, home health agencies, and outpatient care.
- Clear certification path: CNA programs provide a structured path to Nurse Aide I (CNA) certification, followed by employment opportunities that can lead to advanced nursing roles.
- Flexible options: Local programs offer in-person classes with daytime, evening, and weekend schedules to fit work, family, and school commitments.
- Strong community ties: Local colleges and hospital-affiliated training programs often have job placement support and connections with employers in the area.
Understanding CNA Certification in Virginia
Virginia CNA certification is designed to ensure you have the core skills to assist patients with daily living activities, basic medical tasks, and essential hygiene needs. While specifics can vary by program, the typical path looks like this:
- complete an approved Nurse Aide I (CNA) training program (usually 4-12 weeks, depending on format and schedule).
- Pass a state or national competency exam (written or oral multiple-choice test plus a skills demonstration).
- Register for certification with the Virginia Board of Nursing or the designated state credentialing body, and maintain your certification through ongoing renewal requirements.
- Apply for CNA positions in hospitals, long-term care facilities, home health agencies, and clinics in norfolk and across Virginia.
Tip: Check with your chosen program about exam providers (often Pearson VUE or a state-approved testing partner) and the exact steps to activate your CNA certification after completion.
Top CNA Programs in Norfolk VA
Tidewater community College (TCC) – Nursing Assistant I (CNA) Training
Tidewater Community College is a well-known option in the Hampton Roads area, with campuses serving Norfolk and nearby cities. The CNA program at TCC emphasizes hands-on clinical practice, classroom instruction, and exam readiness to prepare you for certification and entry-level healthcare roles.
basic patient care, vital signs, daily living activities, infection control, grooming and hygiene, safety, and communication with patients and the health care team. In-person instruction with labs and clinical experiences; typical duration ranges from several weeks to a few months depending on the schedule. Tuition varies by term and residency status; many students qualify for financial aid, scholarships, or employer reimbursement. Contact TCC for the most current pricing. Upon triumphant completion, you’ll be eligible to take the CNA competency exam and pursue CNA transfer or employment opportunities in Norfolk and the surrounding area. TCC’s established healthcare pathways, flexible scheduling options, and accessibility for residents of norfolk make it a practical entry point to a healthcare career.
Sentara College of Health Sciences – Nurse Aide Training
Sentara College of Health Sciences is a hospital-affiliated option that offers Nurse Aide Training designed to align with local healthcare employer expectations. The program focuses on practical skills, patient safety, and real-world clinical experiences.
Core CNA competencies, infection prevention, mobility assistance, patient comfort, vital signs basics, and communication with the care team. Primarily in-person instruction with clinical rotations; typical length can range from several weeks to a couple of months depending on cohort schedules. Tuition and fees vary by cohort and location; check with Sentara College for exact pricing and any available financial assistance or employer programs. Completion supports eligibility to take the CNA exam and begin work in Sentara-affiliated facilities or other local healthcare settings. Hospital affiliation frequently enough translates into strong clinical experiences and job networking opportunities after certification.
nearby and Additional Options to Consider
In addition to Tidewater Community College and Sentara College of Health Sciences, you may find continuing education programs and hospital-based CNA training in the broader Norfolk-Hampton Roads area. It’s smart to compare multiple programs for schedule flexibility, clinical site access, and post-graduation support. When evaluating options, consider:
- Clinical site variety and quality of supervision
- Program accreditation and alignment with Virginia CNA requirements
- Class size and instructor-to-student ratio
- Job placement assistance and alumni success stories
CNA Programs at a Glance: Quick Comparison
Use this at-a-glance table to compare the two primary Norfolk-area options and the general framework of nearby programs. For the most current details, visit each school’s official page.
| Program | location | Length | Typical Cost | Certification Path | Next Start |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tidewater Community College – Nursing Assistant I | Norfolk and Hampton Roads campuses | 4-12 weeks (varies by schedule) | Tuition varies; generally a few hundred to a couple thousand dollars | CNA exam eligibility upon completion; state/national competency exam required | See official schedule |
| Sentara College of Health Sciences – Nurse Aide Training | Norfolk / Hampton Roads area | Several weeks to a few months | Tuition varies by cohort; look for financial aid options | Exam eligibility after completion; CNA certification granted upon passing | Check current cohorts |
| Other local options (hospital and community partner programs) | Hampton Roads region | Varies by program | Varies; commonly budget-friendly with occasional employer-funded slots | Usually requires passing a CNA exam to certify | Depends on term availability |
Benefits and Practical Tips for success
Look for evening or weekend cohorts if you’re balancing work or family responsibilities. Explore scholarships, grants, employer tuition assistance, and payment plans offered by each program. Ask about exam prep, practice tests, and skills demonstrations included in the curriculum. Favor programs with solid clinical placements and experienced mentors to boost confidence.
First-hand Experience and Case Studies
Many norfolk residents begin their healthcare journey as CNAs and quickly discover how vital compassionate patient care is. A typical success story starts with choosing a reputable CNA program, completing clinical hours with supervision, and passing the certification exam. After certification, graduates often find roles in long-term care facilities or hospital settings, then continue education to advance into LPN or RN programs. If you’re weighing options, reach out to current students or alumni in Norfolk to learn about clinical rotations, study resources, and job placement support.
Helpful Resources for Virginia CNA Certification
- Virginia Board of Nursing and Virginia CNA requirements (for state-specific rules and renewal)
- National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) for the certification exam (written and skills test)
- Pearson VUE or other approved testing partners for CNA exams
- Hospital and long-term care employer websites for entry-level CNA job postings and trainee programs
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be certified to work as a CNA in Virginia?
Yes. In Virginia, CNA certification is required to work as a Nurse Aide I in most clinical settings.You must complete an approved CNA training program and pass the required competency exam to become certified.
Are online CNA classes available in Norfolk, VA?
hybrid options exist in some programs, combining online coursework with in-person labs and clinicals. Fully online CNA programs are less common due to the hands-on clinical component, but many programs offer online theory portions to accommodate busy schedules.
How much can CNAs earn in Norfolk, VA?
Earnings vary by setting, experience, and shift. Entry-level CNAs in norfolk typically earn competitive wages with opportunities for benefits,overtime,and advancement as you gain experience and pursue further education.
Conclusion: Start Your CNA Journey in Norfolk Today
Choosing the right CNA program in Norfolk VA is a pivotal step toward a stable, meaningful healthcare career. By comparing Tidewater Community college and Sentara College of Health Sciences, considering schedule and cost, and understanding the certification pathway in virginia, you’ll be well-positioned to launch a successful CNA journey. remember to verify current program details, start dates, and financial aid options directly with the schools. With dedication, hands-on practice, and the right support, you can move from student to trusted caregiver, making a positive impact in Norfolk’s healthcare community.
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