CNA Classes & Programs in Baltimore, Maryland
Get Information from CNA Programs in Baltimore and Nearby
Baltimore is home to 24 CNA programs, offering a diverse selection for those looking to start a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant. This major metropolitan area provides aspiring CNAs with access to training options that can suit various schedules and needs. Some programs in Baltimore even provide free CNA classes, making it possible for more individuals to pursue this essential healthcare role.
Students will find local CNA classes that prepare them for Maryland certification, with some schools offering online coursework or accelerated tracks. With the presence of large hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies in Baltimore, graduates have the advantage of proximity to potential employers after completing their CNA training program. The city's wide range of facilities supports ongoing demand for qualified CNAs throughout the region.
In the Baltimore-Columbia-Towson metro area, CNAs earn around $38,390 annually. Whether you are seeking traditional in-person instruction, online flexibility, or an accelerated path, Baltimore's CNA programs offer multiple entry points into Maryland’s healthcare field.
Quick Facts About Baltimore
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Population584,548Residents
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CNA Programs24State-approved Programs
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Median Income$58,349Median Annual Income
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CNA Hourly Rate$18.46Median Hourly Rate
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CNA Yearly Salary$38,390Median Annual Salary
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Facilities61CMS Healthcare Facilities39 Nursing Homes • 17 Hospitals • 5 Home Health Agencies
Get Information from CNA Programs in Baltimore and Nearby
Schools in Baltimore and nearby are actively seeking qualified students. Fill out one quick form below to receive information directly from multiple accredited CNA programs.
You'll receive information about:
- Upcoming start dates & schedules
- Tuition costs & financial aid options
- Class locations & formats
- Program details & requirements
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Browse CNA Classes in Baltimore
Baltimore provides 24 CNA training programs that equip students for Maryland state certification and employment as nursing assistants. Options include free CNA training, online courses, and accelerated tracks to accommodate various learning preferences. Each program prepares students with job-ready skills and practical experience needed for successful certification and entry into healthcare careers, with CNAs consistently hired throughout the city.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: available in Baltimore through various funding sources including employer sponsorship and grants.
Accelerated programs: available in Baltimore and are usually 4-week programs, sometimes 3 or 5 weeks.
Online programs: Some classes in Baltimore offer online coursework combined with local clinical training.
Tribute Home Care
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St. Elizabeth Rehabilitation and Nursing Center
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Soul of Medicine Assistant Living
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Genesis HealthCare - Franklin Woods Center
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FutureCare Irvington
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University of Maryland Medical Center - Downtown Campus
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University of Maryland Medical Center - Midtown Campus
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Vivien T. Thomas Medical Arts Academy
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REACH! Partnership School #341
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Patterson High School
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Mergenthaler Vocational Technical High School
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Green Street Academy
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Edmondson-Westside High School
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Top Knowledge Healthcare Institute
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Maryland Center For Adult Training
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Health Focus
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Caroline Center
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American Health Career Institute
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American Red Cross
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Health Training Institute
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Coppin State University
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Community College of Baltimore County - Dundalk
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Community College of Baltimore County - Essex
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Baltimore City Community College
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CNA Employment Opportunities in Baltimore
CNA Salary Information
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Annual Salary$38,390Median Yearly Pay
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Hourly Rate$18.46Median Per Hour
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Available Jobs12,720CNA Positions
In the Baltimore-Columbia-Towson region, approximately 12,720 CNAs are employed according to BLS OEWS (May 2023) data. This employment base reflects steady demand for nursing assistants across hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home health agencies throughout the metropolitan area. CNA jobs in Baltimore are available in a range of healthcare environments, supporting ongoing opportunities for new and experienced aides.
CNA salary in Baltimore is best represented by regional data: In the Baltimore-Columbia-Towson metro area, CNAs earn a median annual wage of $38,390, or about $18.46 per hour based on BLS OEWS (May 2023) figures. This is slightly below Maryland’s statewide median of $38,620. Regional salary levels may vary depending on specific employers and types of care facilities but remain in line with many other U.S. cities.
Major employers in Baltimore include Johns Hopkins Hospital—a nationally recognized teaching hospital—and Medstar Union Memorial Hospital, both providing acute care services and employing significant numbers of CNAs. Among local nursing homes, Resorts of Augsburg is a notable facility with 131 beds and over 110 average residents. Home health agencies such as Medstar Health Home Care also contribute to job opportunities for certified aides within the city’s healthcare sector.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Working in Nearby Cities
Looking beyond Baltimore? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Columbia, Ellicott City, Glen Burnie, Dundalk, and Silver Spring, or browse the Maryland 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 Baltimore (39 facilities)
39 nursing homes in Baltimore providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
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King David Nursing And Rehabilitation Center
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Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Baltimore (17 facilities)
17 hospitals in Baltimore offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
Medstar Union Memorial Hospital
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Greater Baltimore Medical Center
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Home Health Agencies Hiring CNAs in Baltimore (5 facilities)
5 home health agencies in Baltimore providing CNA career opportunities. Source: CMS home health agencies (July 2025)
Medstar Health Home Care
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Phr Of Baltimore, Inc.
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Adoration Home Health Baltimore
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The Johns Hopkins Home Health Services, Inc
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Requirements to Work as a CNA in Baltimore, MD
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Baltimore, you must meet the statewide CNA requirements set by Maryland. These include completing a Maryland Board of Nursing–approved nursing assistant training program and being listed on the Maryland Nurse Aide Registry. If you plan to work in a licensed nursing home, you must also pass the Maryland NNAAP exam administered by Credentia to obtain the Geriatric Nursing Assistant (GNA) designation.
- Completion of a Board-approved CNA/GNA training program (at least 100 total hours)
- At least 40 hours of supervised clinical practice in a Maryland-licensed nursing home
- At least 16 hours of required OBRA instruction before any direct resident contact
- Passing both the knowledge test (70 written or 60 oral + 10 reading questions) and the skills exam (five tasks within 30 minutes) to earn the GNA
- Up to four attempts within 24 months of training completion before retraining is required
- Placement on the Maryland Nurse Aide Registry after meeting all certification requirements
Once certified, you may work in nursing homes (with the GNA endorsement), hospitals, assisted living facilities, rehabilitation centers, and home health agencies throughout Baltimore and across Maryland.
Already certified in another state? Maryland offers reciprocity for out-of-state CNAs who are active and in good standing. Applicants generally do not need to retake the exam, though a GNA endorsement may still be required for nursing home employment. Learn more in our CNA License Reciprocity in Maryland guide.
For complete details on training, testing, renewal, and maintaining certification, see our full CNA License & Registration in Maryland 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 Baltimore
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Baltimore?
Most CNA programs in Baltimore 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 Baltimore?
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 Baltimore?
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 Baltimore?
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 Baltimore?
Yes, some schools in Baltimore 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 Baltimore there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Columbia, Ellicott City, Glen Burnie, Dundalk, and Silver Spring. You can also look at the Maryland state page to find more.
How do I get listed on the Maryland CNA registry?
To work as a CNA in Maryland, you must be added to the official state registry. See our Maryland CNA registry guide for step-by-step instructions.
Where do CNAs work in Baltimore?
CNAs in Baltimore 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.