CNA Classes & Programs in Athens, Georgia
Get Information from CNA Programs in Athens and Nearby
In Athens, 3 state-approved CNA classes are available to help aspiring nursing assistants start their healthcare careers. As a recognized college town with a vibrant local population, Athens offers several pathways to certification that cater to both traditional learners and those seeking flexible schedules. Accelerated programs are offered here for those looking to enter the workforce more quickly.
CNA programs in Athens focus on preparing students for Georgia CNA certification while providing essential job readiness skills valued by area employers. Options include standard courses as well as an accelerated class format designed to meet varied student needs. After completing their training, graduates can seek positions across hospitals or long-term care settings within Athens.
In the Athens-Clarke County region, CNAs earn around $33,980 annually according to BLS OEWS (May 2023). This figure is just below the statewide median salary but reflects ongoing demand across local healthcare employers.
Quick Facts About Athens
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Population126,672Residents
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CNA Programs3State-approved Programs
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Median Income$47,798Median Annual Income
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CNA Hourly Rate$16.34Median Hourly Rate
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CNA Yearly Salary$33,980Median Annual Salary
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Facilities9CMS Healthcare Facilities5 Nursing Homes • 2 Hospitals • 2 Home Health Agencies
Get Information from CNA Programs in Athens and Nearby
Schools in Athens and nearby are actively seeking qualified students. Fill out one quick form below to receive information directly from multiple accredited CNA programs.
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Browse CNA Classes in Athens
Athens offers 3 CNA training programs that equip students for state registry placement through hands-on instruction and preparation for Georgia state certification exams. Options include an accelerated class for those who wish to complete training quickly. These CNA programs help participants build vital patient care abilities while meeting regional healthcare demand, where new certified assistants continue to be sought after by local employers.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: not available in Athens, but free classes are available in other cities throughout Georgia.
Accelerated programs: available in Athens and are usually 4-week programs, sometimes 3 or 5 weeks.
Online programs: Some classes in Athens offer online coursework combined with local clinical training.
Innovative Health Care Institute
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Athens Community Career Academy
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Athens Tech Core CNA
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CNA Employment Opportunities in Athens
CNA Salary Information
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Annual Salary$33,980Median Yearly Pay
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Hourly Rate$16.34Median Per Hour
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Available Jobs680CNA Positions
In the Athens-Clarke County region, approximately 680 certified nursing assistants work across multiple care environments. There is consistent demand among local employers such as hospitals and long-term care providers seeking skilled CNAs to deliver quality patient support throughout this college-town community.
The CNA salary in Athens reflects localized market conditions within Clarke County. In the Athens-Clarke County area, CNAs earn a median annual wage of $33,980 (or about $16.34 per hour), based on data from BLS OEWS (May 2023). This regional median is slightly below Georgia’s statewide figure of $34,710 but still represents stable earning potential within this part of northeast Georgia.
Key employers include Presbyterian Village - Athens (40 beds), Pruitthealth - Grandview (72 beds), University Nursing & Rehab Center (122 beds), Piedmont Athens Regional Medical Center—a major acute care hospital—and St Mary’s Hospital on Baxter Street. Local home health agencies such as Piedmont Home Health also contribute job opportunities for newly certified nursing assistants across Athens’ nine CMS-certified facilities.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Working in Nearby Cities
Looking beyond Athens? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Gainesville, Lawrenceville, Atlanta, Stone Mountain, and Hartwell, or browse the Georgia CNA programs page for more options.
Working in Other States
Planning to move or gain experience working in other states? Use our reciprocity guide to transfer your existing CNA license across states.
Working Through Agencies or as a Travel CNA
If you're already certified and would like to work through an agency or work as a travel CNA, browse here our directory of CNA agencies or simply fill out this short form to get matched with 3 personalized CNA agencies that can help you land your next job.
Nursing Homes Hiring CNAs in Athens (5 facilities)
5 nursing homes in Athens providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
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Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Athens (2 facilities)
2 hospitals in Athens offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
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Home Health Agencies Hiring CNAs in Athens (2 facilities)
2 home health agencies in Athens providing CNA career opportunities. Source: CMS home health agencies (July 2025)
Piedmont Home Health
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Requirements to Work as a CNA in Athens, GA
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Athens, you must meet the statewide CNA requirements set by Georgia. These include completing a state-approved CNA training program, passing the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam, and being listed on the Georgia Nurse Aide Registry.
- At least 85 hours of training, including 24 hours of supervised clinical practice in a nursing home setting
- Passing both parts of the NNAAP exam (written/oral and skills evaluation)
- Meeting physical requirements for CNA duties (background checks handled by employers)
- Placement on the Georgia Nurse Aide Registry
Once you are certified, you can apply for CNA jobs at hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, and hospice facilities throughout Athens and the surrounding area.
Already certified in another state? You may qualify for reciprocity to transfer your license into Georgia without retraining. Learn more in our CNA License Reciprocity in Georgia guide.
For full details on testing, certification, and maintaining an active license, see our step-by-step CNA License & Registration in Georgia guide.
Career Growth & Advancement
Many CNAs use their experience as a stepping stone toward advanced healthcare careers:
- Specialized certifications (e.g., dementia care, medication aide)
- Promotion into shift supervisor or training coordinator roles
- Bridge programs to become an LPN or RN
- Opportunities in healthcare administration or education
Frequently Asked Questions about CNA Classes in Athens
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Athens?
Most CNA programs in Athens can be completed in 4–12 weeks, depending on whether you choose a traditional, accelerated, or weekend schedule.
How much does CNA training cost in Athens?
Tuition typically ranges from $800–$1,500, though may be higher depending on the program. Some schools and healthcare employers may cover the cost or reimburse you after hiring.
Are there free CNA classes in Athens?
Some hospitals, nursing homes, and workforce programs may offer free CNA training in exchange for a work commitment.
Are there online CNA training options available in Athens?
Several schools offer hybrid options with online coursework and in-person clinical training at local healthcare facilities.
Are there any 4-weeks CNA classes in Athens?
Yes, some schools in Athens or nearby areas may offer accelerated CNA programs that can be completed in as little as 4 weeks, depending on class schedules and clinical requirements.
Which nearby cities are there for CNA classes and job opportunities?
Near Athens there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Gainesville, Lawrenceville, Atlanta, Stone Mountain, and Hartwell. You can also look at the Georgia state page to find more.
How do I get listed on the Georgia CNA registry?
To work as a CNA in Georgia, you must be added to the official state registry. See our Georgia CNA registry guide for step-by-step instructions.
Where do CNAs work in Athens?
CNAs in Athens are employed in hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, and other healthcare facilities. Many also use their CNA experience as a stepping stone to LPN or RN careers.
Information Accuracy: Requirements, salary data, and other information are carefully compiled and based on the latest available sources, but may change. Please verify with official sources before making decisions. If you spot a mistake, let us know.