CNA Programs & Career Opportunities in Massachusetts
Massachusetts is home to 176 CNA training programs and over 700 healthcare facilities. Our guide currently highlights 97 cities, where we cover all local CNA programs and a selection of healthcare facilities. Explore CNA classes, salary information, and career opportunities to learn more about becoming a CNA in Massachusetts.
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With over 175 CNA training programs statewide, Massachusetts offers exceptional educational opportunities in major metropolitan areas such as Boston, Worcester, Springfield, Dorchester, Cambridge, and Lowell. Currently, about 36,790 Certified Nursing Assistants work across Massachusetts, reflecting steady demand for skilled healthcare professionals. Students completing Massachusetts CNA programs can expect median earnings of 44,200 annually and 21.25 per hour, among the highest CNA wages in the nation.
With a population of over 7.1 million residents and one of the most advanced healthcare systems in the United States, Massachusetts continues to offer excellent career opportunities for CNA training graduates. From world-renowned institutions like Mass General Brigham and Beth Israel Lahey Health in Boston to community hospitals and long-term care facilities across Worcester, Springfield, and the North Shore, Certified Nursing Assistants play a vital role in supporting patient care and strengthening the state's healthcare workforce.
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Schools in Massachusetts are actively seeking qualified students. Fill out one quick form below to receive information directly from multiple accredited CNA programs.
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Major Cities for CNA Careers in Massachusetts
Explore CNA opportunities in Massachusetts's largest cities and metropolitan areas.
Training & Certification Requirements in Massachusetts
Before you begin training, it’s important to understand the requirements for becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Massachusetts. Meeting these standards ensures you're eligible to test, be listed on the state registry, and work in approved healthcare settings.
Eligibility
Program enrollment (NATCEP): You must complete a Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH)–approved Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program. Programs are offered by community colleges, vocational schools, and long-term care facilities. Some applicants may qualify for a training waiver under 105 CMR 156.100 (e.g., certain nursing students) to take the competency exam without completing a full nurse aide course.
Readiness & screenings: Schools and clinical sites commonly require health and immunization clearance and may require a CORI/background screening. Employers must verify Nurse Aide Registry status before hiring.
Training Hours & Clinicals
Massachusetts requires a minimum of 75 total hours in a DPH-approved curriculum, including classroom/lab instruction and supervised practical training. Federal rules also require at least 16 hours of instruction—covering topics such as communication, residents' rights, safety and emergency procedures (including the Heimlich maneuver), and infection control—before any direct resident contact. Additionally, programs must include at least 16 hours of supervised clinical training in a licensed healthcare facility. Many Massachusetts programs exceed these minimum standards.
Certification Exam
After completing training (or qualifying for a waiver), you must pass both parts of the DPH-approved competency exam, administered by D&SDT-HEADMASTER:
Knowledge test (written or oral): 60 multiple-choice questions in 60 minutes; a passing score of 76% or higher is required. The exam is also available in Spanish, Chinese (traditional and simplified), and Haitian Creole.
Skill test: a timed evaluation (up to 40 minutes) of three or four randomly selected skills. You must demonstrate one mandatory task with embedded handwashing (such as assisting a resident with a bedpan or providing perineal care), plus two or three additional randomly selected tasks from a pool of nurse aide skills.
You must correctly perform all critical steps (bolded in the candidate handbook) and at least 80% of non-critical steps for each assigned skill to pass. Candidates have up to four attempts to pass the knowledge test and three attempts to pass the skill test before retraining is required.
Placement on the Registry & Working as a CNA
After passing both exam components, your name is added to the Massachusetts Nurse Aide Registry. Results are typically posted within three weeks. Employers must verify your registry status before hiring. Under federal rules, a facility may employ a trainee for up to 120 days while training and testing are being completed.
Renewal
Massachusetts CNA certification must be renewed every 24 months. To renew, you must have performed at least 8 consecutive hours of paid nursing or nursing-related duties under appropriate supervision during the preceding 24 months.
Costs & Reimbursement
Current exam fees (set by D&SDT-HEADMASTER) are $30 for the knowledge test ($40 for the audio version) and $70 for the skill test. Under federal law, if you are employed by—or receive an offer from—a Medicare/Medicaid-certified nursing facility when you begin training, the facility must cover your training and testing costs. If you are hired within 12 months of completing training, the facility must reimburse those costs on a prorated basis.
Reciprocity
If you are already certified in another U.S. state and in active, good standing, and have never been certified in Massachusetts, you may apply for out-of-state reciprocity to be placed on the Massachusetts Nurse Aide Registry without retraining. Applicants must submit verification of current certification and meet all DPH review requirements.
Explore CNA classes in Massachusetts by city. We currently feature 97 cities, each with a full list of CNA training courses, salary details, and selected healthcare facilities.
Looking for free CNA classes and training programs in Massachusetts? These 37 options are available at no cost through employer sponsorship, state support, or other financial assistance.
Holyoke Community College - Quaboag High School
✅ State Approved🏫 Community College⚡ Accelerated Program✨ Free Program💵 Financial Aid Available🤝 Job Placement Help🌙 Evening Classes Available
📍 Warren, 284 Old West Brookfield Rd, Massachusetts 01083
HCC’s Jump Start CNA program is an in-person, 5-week training offered in day and evening cohorts that includes HHA, CPR/First Aid, and dementia training. Graduates receive job search support.
Royal Health Group lists paid CNA courses as part of its employee programs at the Megansett facility. Training is in person and tuition-free with employment at Royal Health Group.
Broad Reach Healthcare offers a paid CNA Apprenticeship at its Chatham campus with zero tuition, with training and the state test conducted on site. Upon certification, participants transition into full-time CNA roles and may advance with sponsored LPN/RN education.
Bay Path Rehab & Nursing Center offers a free CNA training program open to the public, combining in-person and remote instruction. The facility also hosts clinical rotations for CNA students.
MWCC offers an 8-week hybrid Certified Nurse Assistant program that is completely free and includes CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications. Day or evening classes are followed by a 30-hour, one-week clinical practicum.
Royal Health Cape Cod offers paid CNA training for prospective staff to build caregiving skills and begin careers in long-term care at Royal facilities.
Salter Healthcare has offered a free, employer-sponsored CNA training program to prepare new CNAs for roles at its centers, including Woburn Rehabilitation and Nursing Center. Training availability varies by cohort; contact the facility for current offerings.
HCC’s Jump Start CNA program is an in-person, 5-week training offered in day and evening cohorts that includes HHA, CPR/First Aid, and dementia training. Graduates receive job search support.
Holyoke Community College’s Jump Start CNA program offers in-person training with day and evening cohorts and includes CPR, HHA, and Alzheimer’s trainings. Eligible students may attend tuition-free, and job search resources are provided after completion.
Catholic Charities Boston’s Labouré Center runs a Nursing Assistant/Home Health Aide training with classroom and clinical instruction and career navigation support. The program is offered at no cost for eligible participants.
AdviniaCare Northbridge offers on‑campus CNA classes that provide a pathway to work within the facility. Recent postings indicate free, paid training with wages during the program and employment upon certification.
Grafton Job Corps offers a Certified Nurse Assistant training program that provides hands-on instruction and prepares students with essential caregiving skills. The program is free for eligible students and includes career services support.
In partnership with the Cambridge Community Learning Center, Labouré provides labs/clinicals as part of a CNA training pathway that combines in-person and online learning with job readiness support. Program tracks include options for fluent English speakers and English learners.
Leicester High School’s Chapter 74 Health Assisting program provides CNA licensure preparation with classroom instruction, clinical experiences, and certifications such as CPR/AED and First Aid. Students gain externship experience and can pursue healthcare employment after graduation.
HCC’s Jump Start CNA is an in-person, 5-week program with day and evening cohorts; it’s free for eligible SNAP/TAFDC participants or available out-of-pocket. The program includes CPR, HHA, and Alzheimer’s/dementia trainings and provides employment search support.
Employer-sponsored CNA training offered free of cost, with 20 hours remote coursework plus on-site skills and clinical; candidates may be hired as HHA/RCA during training and transition to CNA after completion.
Essex North Shore offers Certified Nurse Aide training for adult learners in partnership with North Shore Community Action Programs, with English support available. Classes are offered tuition-free when grant-funded.
NSCC’s HEA100 Nurse Assistant/Home Health Aide includes classroom, lab, and clinical training with HHA, CPR, and CMS Hand in Hand Dementia training. Day and evening cohorts are offered at Danvers and Lynn.
South Cove Manor advertises free CNA job training and testing delivered in Chinese for prospective caregivers. Contact the facility for upcoming cohort details and eligibility.
SCALE offers an ESOL/Certified Nursing Assistant pathway featuring a 125 hour CNA training with classroom instruction on site and clinical experience at a local nursing facility. Programs are funded to be free for Somerville residents when offered.
Chelsea Jewish Lifecare offers a paid Trained Nursing Assistant program that provides on‑the‑job training and coursework to prepare participants to become CNAs. Most trainees are hired after certification, and training includes an initial eight‑hour class and an online component.
Berkshire Health Systems offers a paid, employer-sponsored nursing assistant training program that provides several weeks of intensive on‑the‑job instruction leading to employment as a Nursing Assistant. Berkshire Community College also runs a 4‑week evening CNA course on campus in partnership with BHS with classroom, skills lab, and clinical hours.
Springside offers a facility‑based CNA training program at no cost, hiring trainees as RCA/HHA during training and transitioning them to CNA roles upon completion. The program includes remote coursework with in‑house skills labs and supervised clinical hours conducted at the facility.
Taconic High School’s Health Technology pathway teaches the Massachusetts CNA curriculum with clinical experience, and students who complete the 11th‑grade sequence are eligible for the state exam. Seniors may participate in co‑op placements or advanced classroom work.
Southcoast Health offers a paid six-week CNA Training Program based at St. Luke’s Hospital with classroom, skills lab, observational experiences, and clinical rotations. Tuition-related costs (text/workbook, one scrub set, exam fee) are covered, and trainees are expected to continue working at a Southcoast hospital after certification.
MWCC offers an 8-week hybrid Certified Nurse Assistant program that is completely free for eligible Massachusetts residents and includes CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications. Day and evening cohorts are offered with a one-week 30-hour clinical practicum.
✅ State Approved🏫 Community College💻 Online Available⚡ Accelerated Program✨ Free Program🏢 Employer Sponsored💵 Financial Aid Available🌙 Evening Classes Available
📍 Lawrence, 45 Franklin Street, Massachusetts 02650
NECC offers a 4-week, DPH‑approved hybrid CNA training with online lectures, hands‑on labs, and a 25‑hour clinical on the Lawrence campus. Recent cohorts have been grant‑funded at no cost to students.
NDEC-L’s Nursing Assistant program trains CNAs and HHAs with classroom instruction, skills lab, clinical experience, and BLS, with tracks for fluent English speakers and ESOL learners. Many students qualify for free or subsidized tuition through grants and donations.
Employer-sponsored CNA training offered on-site at St. Patrick’s Manor at no cost with a daytime schedule and small cohort; applicants commit to employment upon completion.
Fieldstone’s Nurse Aide/Home Health Aide program provides 128 hours of training with classroom, lab, clinical, and CPR/BLS included; state exam fee is included. Day and evening cohorts are offered in Fitchburg, with a WIOA-funded option for eligible youth.
The 90 hour hybrid CNA/HHA program blends online theory with in-person labs and clinicals, with day, evening, and weekend options. An employer-sponsored track through a staffing partner can cover full tuition for qualified applicants who commit to work.
Bristol offers a state-approved Nursing Assistant Training program with hybrid online coursework, in-person labs, and clinical hours in a long-term care facility. Training can be completed in as little as 4 to 8 weeks, with financial assistance and free training for eligible residents.
Catholic Charities Boston offers a Nursing Assistant/Home Health Aide program at Catholic Charities South in Brockton with classroom, lab, and clinical training in recurring cohorts. The program is offered at no cost to eligible participants and training stipends may be available.
Noncredit Nurse Assistant/Home Health Aide pathway provides classroom, lab, and clinical training with CPR and dementia certifications. Cohorts run days and evenings; some are tuition-free for eligible students.
ArLab offers free CNA training in partnership with JVS Boston, with 6-week or 14-week options featuring hands-on labs, clinical experience, and job coaching. Graduates are guaranteed a full-time job with benefits with participating employer partners.
These 28 programs offer CNA classes online in Massachusetts, giving you the flexibility to complete the classroom portion remotely. However, all CNA programs also require in-person clinical training, which must be completed at an approved healthcare facility before certification.
Excel Training Institute - Hybrid Program
✅ State Approved🏫 Career School💻 Online Available⚡ Accelerated Program🤝 Job Placement Help
📍 Wilbraham, 4 Stony Hill Road, Massachusetts 01095
Hybrid Nurse Aide/Home Health Aide course totaling 75 hours across 3 weeks, with two weeks of flexible online theory and one intensive in-person week of lab and clinical at a DPH-approved facility. Small classes are taught by RN/LPN instructors.
Total Cost: $1,745Total Hours: 75Duration: 3 weeks
Bay Path Rehab & Nursing Center offers a free CNA training program open to the public, combining in-person and remote instruction. The facility also hosts clinical rotations for CNA students.
MWCC offers an 8-week hybrid Certified Nurse Assistant program that is completely free and includes CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications. Day or evening classes are followed by a 30-hour, one-week clinical practicum.
Divine Watch offers Nursing Assistant training with options for hybrid evening, in‑person weekend, and a weekday NAT/HHA dual track. The program includes classroom, lab, and clinical hours with resume and interview support.
Total Cost: $1,350Total Hours: 80Duration: 6 weeks
Quincy College offers a hybrid CNA program with online theory, on-campus labs, and clinical training, available in Quincy and Plymouth. Multiple day, evening, and weekend cohorts run in 4–7 weeks.
Blended nurse aide training with online theory and in-person lab and clinical; described as a 4 week job training program with monthly admissions. Graduates are supported with job placement.
Metrowest offers Nursing Assistant and Home Health Aide training with flexible schedules and career services, and lists options for online and in-person instruction. The Milford campus is a branch location for program delivery.
In partnership with the Cambridge Community Learning Center, Labouré provides labs/clinicals as part of a CNA training pathway that combines in-person and online learning with job readiness support. Program tracks include options for fluent English speakers and English learners.
Employer-sponsored CNA training offered free of cost, with 20 hours remote coursework plus on-site skills and clinical; candidates may be hired as HHA/RCA during training and transition to CNA after completion.
BHCC’s Certified Nurse Assistant training consists of concurrent courses in clinical practice, patient care skills, and a 24-hour off-site practicum at a skilled nursing facility. Day and evening options are offered with hybrid/asynchronous components.
Quincy College’s CNA program is a 4–7 week hybrid course with online theory, on-campus labs, and clinicals; cohorts run days, evenings, and weekends in Quincy and Plymouth. Job placement assistance is available.
Chelsea Jewish Lifecare offers a paid Trained Nursing Assistant program that provides on‑the‑job training and coursework to prepare participants to become CNAs. Most trainees are hired after certification, and training includes an initial eight‑hour class and an online component.
Integritus Healthcare offers a blended 5‑week Nurse Aide Training Program that combines online theory with in‑person skills and clinical experience at affiliate facilities. Cohorts run in partnership with regional workforce programs with locations across Berkshire County.
Springside offers a facility‑based CNA training program at no cost, hiring trainees as RCA/HHA during training and transitioning them to CNA roles upon completion. The program includes remote coursework with in‑house skills labs and supervised clinical hours conducted at the facility.
Nurse Assistant/Home Health Aide program offered year-round with day, evening and weekend options; 100 hours over 10 weeks with in-person and online class options.
MCC’s Nurse Assistant/Home Health Aide Certificate is a 100-hour, DPH-approved program with online theory, on-campus skills labs, and weekend clinicals. Multiple day and evening cohorts are offered, and grant funding may be available for qualified Massachusetts residents.
Total Cost: $2,350Total Hours: 100Duration: 8 weeks
MWCC offers an 8-week hybrid Certified Nurse Assistant program that is completely free for eligible Massachusetts residents and includes CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications. Day and evening cohorts are offered with a one-week 30-hour clinical practicum.
Career Training Academy lists a 12-week Certified Nurse Assistant program with a hybrid format and evening schedule. Check the academy’s site for upcoming cohort dates and details.
✅ State Approved🏫 Community College💻 Online Available⚡ Accelerated Program✨ Free Program🏢 Employer Sponsored💵 Financial Aid Available🌙 Evening Classes Available
📍 Lawrence, 45 Franklin Street, Massachusetts 02650
NECC offers a 4-week, DPH‑approved hybrid CNA training with online lectures, hands‑on labs, and a 25‑hour clinical on the Lawrence campus. Recent cohorts have been grant‑funded at no cost to students.
MassBay offers a 120 hour Certified Nursing Assistant program delivered in a hybrid format with remote lectures, in-person skills labs, and clinicals offered in fall, spring, and summer. Scholarships are available through MassBay’s Workforce Development/Continuing Education.
MassBay’s hybrid Certified Nursing Assistant training totals 120 hours with online didactic via Webex plus in-person labs and clinicals offered in multiple terms. Scholarships are available through the college’s Workforce Development/Continuing Education.
The 90 hour hybrid CNA/HHA program blends online theory with in-person labs and clinicals, with day, evening, and weekend options. An employer-sponsored track through a staffing partner can cover full tuition for qualified applicants who commit to work.
The Nurse Assistant/Home Health Aide program includes classroom, lab, and supervised clinical training, totaling 120 hours. The school offers frequent day and evening cohorts, job help, and hybrid sessions for some theory.
Bristol offers a state-approved Nursing Assistant Training program with hybrid online coursework, in-person labs, and clinical hours in a long-term care facility. Training can be completed in as little as 4 to 8 weeks, with financial assistance and free training for eligible residents.
K&K Healthcare Training Center’s NA/HHA program in Brockton provides classroom, skills lab, and clinical training in a DPH-approved facility. In addition to in-person NA/HHA, hybrid options are offered, including a 4‑week NA program.
These 27 programs offer accelerated CNA training in Massachusetts, typically ranging from 3-5 weeks, with 4-week programs being the most common. Accelerated CNA classes are one of the fastest ways to become a CNA in Massachusetts, making them ideal if you want to start your healthcare career quickly.
Excel Training Institute - Hybrid Program
✅ State Approved🏫 Career School💻 Online Available⚡ Accelerated Program🤝 Job Placement Help
📍 Wilbraham, 4 Stony Hill Road, Massachusetts 01095
Hybrid Nurse Aide/Home Health Aide course totaling 75 hours across 3 weeks, with two weeks of flexible online theory and one intensive in-person week of lab and clinical at a DPH-approved facility. Small classes are taught by RN/LPN instructors.
Total Cost: $1,745Total Hours: 75Duration: 3 weeks
HCC’s Jump Start CNA program is an in-person, 5-week training offered in day and evening cohorts that includes HHA, CPR/First Aid, and dementia training. Graduates receive job search support.
HCC’s Jump Start CNA program is an in-person, 5-week training offered in day and evening cohorts that includes HHA, CPR/First Aid, and dementia training. Graduates receive job search support.
Holyoke Community College’s Jump Start CNA program offers in-person training with day and evening cohorts and includes CPR, HHA, and Alzheimer’s trainings. Eligible students may attend tuition-free, and job search resources are provided after completion.
Quincy College offers a hybrid CNA program with online theory, on-campus labs, and clinical training, available in Quincy and Plymouth. Multiple day, evening, and weekend cohorts run in 4–7 weeks.
Blended nurse aide training with online theory and in-person lab and clinical; described as a 4 week job training program with monthly admissions. Graduates are supported with job placement.
HCC’s Jump Start CNA is an in-person, 5-week program with day and evening cohorts; it’s free for eligible SNAP/TAFDC participants or available out-of-pocket. The program includes CPR, HHA, and Alzheimer’s/dementia trainings and provides employment search support.
The in-person Nurse Aide/Home Health Aide program includes classroom, lab, and clinical training with textbooks, uniform, CPR/BLS, and study materials provided; total program length is 128 hours.
Total Cost: $1,600Total Hours: 128Duration: 4 weeks
Quincy College’s CNA program is a 4–7 week hybrid course with online theory, on-campus labs, and clinicals; cohorts run days, evenings, and weekends in Quincy and Plymouth. Job placement assistance is available.
Royal Health Care Institute offers a 120 hour dual Nurse Aide and Home Health Aide program with day and evening cohorts completed in four weeks. Tuition includes books, uniform, CPR and dementia training.
Total Cost: $1,810Total Hours: 120Duration: 4 weeks
Berkshire Health Systems offers a paid, employer-sponsored nursing assistant training program that provides several weeks of intensive on‑the‑job instruction leading to employment as a Nursing Assistant. Berkshire Community College also runs a 4‑week evening CNA course on campus in partnership with BHS with classroom, skills lab, and clinical hours.
Integritus Healthcare offers a blended 5‑week Nurse Aide Training Program that combines online theory with in‑person skills and clinical experience at affiliate facilities. Cohorts run in partnership with regional workforce programs with locations across Berkshire County.
LifeStream’s Nurse Aide/Home Health Aide program is a 120-hour, five-week course with classroom, lab, and supervised clinical training approved by the Massachusetts DPH. Classes are scheduled monthly through the Employment & Training division.
Royal HCI’s Dual Nurse Aide and Home Health Aide program is a 120-hour course offered in day or evening cohorts over four weeks and includes books, uniform, CPR, and dementia training. The school provides job search assistance though employment is not guaranteed.
Total Cost: $1,810Total Hours: 120Duration: 4 weeks
International Health Training Center offers a Nurse Aide Training Program with 140 total hours. Multiple morning, evening, and weekend cohorts are scheduled throughout the year.
✅ State Approved🏫 Community College💻 Online Available⚡ Accelerated Program✨ Free Program🏢 Employer Sponsored💵 Financial Aid Available🌙 Evening Classes Available
📍 Lawrence, 45 Franklin Street, Massachusetts 02650
NECC offers a 4-week, DPH‑approved hybrid CNA training with online lectures, hands‑on labs, and a 25‑hour clinical on the Lawrence campus. Recent cohorts have been grant‑funded at no cost to students.
Royal HCI offers a 120 hour dual Nurse Aide and Home Health Aide program completed in four weeks with day or evening cohorts. Tuition includes books, uniform, CPR, dementia training, and fees; first-time state exam is free per MA DPH.
Total Cost: $1,810Total Hours: 120Duration: 4 weeks
Employer-sponsored CNA training offered on-site at St. Patrick’s Manor at no cost with a daytime schedule and small cohort; applicants commit to employment upon completion.
Fieldstone’s Nurse Aide/Home Health Aide program provides 128 hours of training with classroom, lab, clinical, and CPR/BLS included; state exam fee is included. Day and evening cohorts are offered in Fitchburg, with a WIOA-funded option for eligible youth.
The 90 hour hybrid CNA/HHA program blends online theory with in-person labs and clinicals, with day, evening, and weekend options. An employer-sponsored track through a staffing partner can cover full tuition for qualified applicants who commit to work.
Coastal Career Academy’s state-certified Nurse Assistant Training totals 100 hours with classroom/lab instruction, approximately 24 clinical hours, and Alzheimer’s certification included. A 5-week day schedule is offered and free training may be available.
Total Cost: $1,650Total Hours: 100Duration: 5 weeks
The Nurse Assistant/Home Health Aide program includes classroom, lab, and supervised clinical training, totaling 120 hours. The school offers frequent day and evening cohorts, job help, and hybrid sessions for some theory.
Bristol offers a state-approved Nursing Assistant Training program with hybrid online coursework, in-person labs, and clinical hours in a long-term care facility. Training can be completed in as little as 4 to 8 weeks, with financial assistance and free training for eligible residents.
K&K Healthcare Training Center’s NA/HHA program in Brockton provides classroom, skills lab, and clinical training in a DPH-approved facility. In addition to in-person NA/HHA, hybrid options are offered, including a 4‑week NA program.
RCC’s Workforce Development CNA course provides classroom instruction and clinical training in a long‑term care facility covering patient care, terminology, documentation, and legal/ethical topics. Multiple daytime, evening, and weekend cohorts are offered across the year.
Nurse Aide Training/Home Health Aide course totaling 137 hours with classroom, lab, and clinical offered in day and evening schedules. Ongoing enrollments with a deposit and payment plan available; career centers funding is accepted.
Total Cost: $1,510Total Hours: 137Duration: 4 weeks
These 36 programs offer evening CNA classes in Massachusetts, designed for working professionals and those with daytime commitments. Evening classes typically run after 5 PM on weekdays, allowing you to maintain your current schedule while pursuing CNA certification.
Holyoke Community College - Quaboag High School
✅ State Approved🏫 Community College⚡ Accelerated Program✨ Free Program💵 Financial Aid Available🤝 Job Placement Help🌙 Evening Classes Available
📍 Warren, 284 Old West Brookfield Rd, Massachusetts 01083
HCC’s Jump Start CNA program is an in-person, 5-week training offered in day and evening cohorts that includes HHA, CPR/First Aid, and dementia training. Graduates receive job search support.
MWCC offers an 8-week hybrid Certified Nurse Assistant program that is completely free and includes CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications. Day or evening classes are followed by a 30-hour, one-week clinical practicum.
Upper Cape Tech Adult & Continuing Education offers Nurse's Aide Training with day and evening cohorts combining classroom, skills lab, and clinical experience for entry-level care roles.
HCC’s Jump Start CNA program is an in-person, 5-week training offered in day and evening cohorts that includes HHA, CPR/First Aid, and dementia training. Graduates receive job search support.
Holyoke Community College’s Jump Start CNA program offers in-person training with day and evening cohorts and includes CPR, HHA, and Alzheimer’s trainings. Eligible students may attend tuition-free, and job search resources are provided after completion.
Divine Watch offers Nursing Assistant training with options for hybrid evening, in‑person weekend, and a weekday NAT/HHA dual track. The program includes classroom, lab, and clinical hours with resume and interview support.
Total Cost: $1,350Total Hours: 80Duration: 6 weeks
Quincy College offers a hybrid CNA program with online theory, on-campus labs, and clinical training, available in Quincy and Plymouth. Multiple day, evening, and weekend cohorts run in 4–7 weeks.
In partnership with the Cambridge Community Learning Center, Labouré provides labs/clinicals as part of a CNA training pathway that combines in-person and online learning with job readiness support. Program tracks include options for fluent English speakers and English learners.
HCC’s Jump Start CNA is an in-person, 5-week program with day and evening cohorts; it’s free for eligible SNAP/TAFDC participants or available out-of-pocket. The program includes CPR, HHA, and Alzheimer’s/dementia trainings and provides employment search support.
NSCC’s HEA100 Nurse Assistant/Home Health Aide includes classroom, lab, and clinical training with HHA, CPR, and CMS Hand in Hand Dementia training. Day and evening cohorts are offered at Danvers and Lynn.
BHCC’s Certified Nurse Assistant training consists of concurrent courses in clinical practice, patient care skills, and a 24-hour off-site practicum at a skilled nursing facility. Day and evening options are offered with hybrid/asynchronous components.
The in-person Nurse Aide/Home Health Aide program includes classroom, lab, and clinical training with textbooks, uniform, CPR/BLS, and study materials provided; total program length is 128 hours.
Total Cost: $1,600Total Hours: 128Duration: 4 weeks
Peak’s Nursing Assistant Technician/Home Health Aide program is 102 hours (78 hours theory/lab plus 24 hours clinical) and is offered with morning, evening, and weekend cohorts.
STCC’s CNA Plus program provides CNA training with CPR, Home Health Aide and Alzheimer’s/Neurological Disorders components, offered in day, evening and Saturday bilingual cohorts.
Total Cost: $2,395Total Hours: 139Duration: 7 weeks
Quincy College’s CNA program is a 4–7 week hybrid course with online theory, on-campus labs, and clinicals; cohorts run days, evenings, and weekends in Quincy and Plymouth. Job placement assistance is available.
Royal Health Care Institute offers a 120 hour dual Nurse Aide and Home Health Aide program with day and evening cohorts completed in four weeks. Tuition includes books, uniform, CPR and dementia training.
Total Cost: $1,810Total Hours: 120Duration: 4 weeks
Berkshire Health Systems offers a paid, employer-sponsored nursing assistant training program that provides several weeks of intensive on‑the‑job instruction leading to employment as a Nursing Assistant. Berkshire Community College also runs a 4‑week evening CNA course on campus in partnership with BHS with classroom, skills lab, and clinical hours.
Nurse Assistant/Home Health Aide program offered year-round with day, evening and weekend options; 100 hours over 10 weeks with in-person and online class options.
MWCC offers an 8-week hybrid Certified Nurse Assistant program that is completely free for eligible Massachusetts residents and includes CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications. Day and evening cohorts are offered with a one-week 30-hour clinical practicum.
MCC’s Nurse Assistant/Home Health Aide Certificate is a 100-hour, DPH-approved program with online theory, on-campus skills labs, and weekend clinicals. Multiple day and evening cohorts are offered, and grant funding may be available for qualified Massachusetts residents.
Total Cost: $2,350Total Hours: 100Duration: 8 weeks
Royal HCI’s Dual Nurse Aide and Home Health Aide program is a 120-hour course offered in day or evening cohorts over four weeks and includes books, uniform, CPR, and dementia training. The school provides job search assistance though employment is not guaranteed.
Total Cost: $1,810Total Hours: 120Duration: 4 weeks
Career Training Academy lists a 12-week Certified Nurse Assistant program with a hybrid format and evening schedule. Check the academy’s site for upcoming cohort dates and details.
International Health Training Center offers a Nurse Aide Training Program with 140 total hours. Multiple morning, evening, and weekend cohorts are scheduled throughout the year.
✅ State Approved🏫 Community College💻 Online Available⚡ Accelerated Program✨ Free Program🏢 Employer Sponsored💵 Financial Aid Available🌙 Evening Classes Available
📍 Lawrence, 45 Franklin Street, Massachusetts 02650
NECC offers a 4-week, DPH‑approved hybrid CNA training with online lectures, hands‑on labs, and a 25‑hour clinical on the Lawrence campus. Recent cohorts have been grant‑funded at no cost to students.
Royal HCI offers a 120 hour dual Nurse Aide and Home Health Aide program completed in four weeks with day or evening cohorts. Tuition includes books, uniform, CPR, dementia training, and fees; first-time state exam is free per MA DPH.
Total Cost: $1,810Total Hours: 120Duration: 4 weeks
Fieldstone’s Nurse Aide/Home Health Aide program provides 128 hours of training with classroom, lab, clinical, and CPR/BLS included; state exam fee is included. Day and evening cohorts are offered in Fitchburg, with a WIOA-funded option for eligible youth.
MassBay offers a 120 hour Certified Nursing Assistant program delivered in a hybrid format with remote lectures, in-person skills labs, and clinicals offered in fall, spring, and summer. Scholarships are available through MassBay’s Workforce Development/Continuing Education.
MassBay’s hybrid Certified Nursing Assistant training totals 120 hours with online didactic via Webex plus in-person labs and clinicals offered in multiple terms. Scholarships are available through the college’s Workforce Development/Continuing Education.
The 90 hour hybrid CNA/HHA program blends online theory with in-person labs and clinicals, with day, evening, and weekend options. An employer-sponsored track through a staffing partner can cover full tuition for qualified applicants who commit to work.
The Nurse Assistant/Home Health Aide program includes classroom, lab, and supervised clinical training, totaling 120 hours. The school offers frequent day and evening cohorts, job help, and hybrid sessions for some theory.
BHI provides Nursing Assistant training with classroom, lab, and a 21-hour clinical rotation. Multiple schedules are available including weekday, evening, and weekend options, and graduates receive job search assistance.
Healthcare-Edu offers an in-person Nursing Assistant program in Brockton that awards CNA, HHA, and BLS certificates, with evening classes Tuesday–Thursday 5 p.m.–8 p.m. Tuition is 1795 and does not include textbook or scrubs.
RCC’s Workforce Development CNA course provides classroom instruction and clinical training in a long‑term care facility covering patient care, terminology, documentation, and legal/ethical topics. Multiple daytime, evening, and weekend cohorts are offered across the year.
Noncredit Nurse Assistant/Home Health Aide pathway provides classroom, lab, and clinical training with CPR and dementia certifications. Cohorts run days and evenings; some are tuition-free for eligible students.
Nurse Aide Training/Home Health Aide course totaling 137 hours with classroom, lab, and clinical offered in day and evening schedules. Ongoing enrollments with a deposit and payment plan available; career centers funding is accepted.
Total Cost: $1,510Total Hours: 137Duration: 4 weeks
These 14 programs offer weekend CNA classes in Massachusetts, perfect for those who work Monday through Friday. Weekend programs typically meet on Saturdays and/or Sundays, allowing you to complete your CNA training without disrupting your weekday work schedule.
Divine Watch Training School
✅ State Approved🏫 Career School💻 Online Available🤝 Job Placement Help🕒 Evening & Weekend Classes Available
📍 Randolph, 950 North Main Street, Massachusetts 02368
Divine Watch offers Nursing Assistant training with options for hybrid evening, in‑person weekend, and a weekday NAT/HHA dual track. The program includes classroom, lab, and clinical hours with resume and interview support.
Total Cost: $1,350Total Hours: 80Duration: 6 weeks
Quincy College offers a hybrid CNA program with online theory, on-campus labs, and clinical training, available in Quincy and Plymouth. Multiple day, evening, and weekend cohorts run in 4–7 weeks.
Smith Vocational’s Adult Community Education offers a CNA course with classroom and clinical training to prepare students for the Massachusetts certification exams. Instruction is delivered on weekends with practical skills taught in clinical settings.
Peak’s Nursing Assistant Technician/Home Health Aide program is 102 hours (78 hours theory/lab plus 24 hours clinical) and is offered with morning, evening, and weekend cohorts.
STCC’s CNA Plus program provides CNA training with CPR, Home Health Aide and Alzheimer’s/Neurological Disorders components, offered in day, evening and Saturday bilingual cohorts.
Total Cost: $2,395Total Hours: 139Duration: 7 weeks
Quincy College’s CNA program is a 4–7 week hybrid course with online theory, on-campus labs, and clinicals; cohorts run days, evenings, and weekends in Quincy and Plymouth. Job placement assistance is available.
Nurse Assistant/Home Health Aide program offered year-round with day, evening and weekend options; 100 hours over 10 weeks with in-person and online class options.
MCC’s Nurse Assistant/Home Health Aide Certificate is a 100-hour, DPH-approved program with online theory, on-campus skills labs, and weekend clinicals. Multiple day and evening cohorts are offered, and grant funding may be available for qualified Massachusetts residents.
Total Cost: $2,350Total Hours: 100Duration: 8 weeks
International Health Training Center offers a Nurse Aide Training Program with 140 total hours. Multiple morning, evening, and weekend cohorts are scheduled throughout the year.
MassBay offers a 120 hour Certified Nursing Assistant program delivered in a hybrid format with remote lectures, in-person skills labs, and clinicals offered in fall, spring, and summer. Scholarships are available through MassBay’s Workforce Development/Continuing Education.
MassBay’s hybrid Certified Nursing Assistant training totals 120 hours with online didactic via Webex plus in-person labs and clinicals offered in multiple terms. Scholarships are available through the college’s Workforce Development/Continuing Education.
The 90 hour hybrid CNA/HHA program blends online theory with in-person labs and clinicals, with day, evening, and weekend options. An employer-sponsored track through a staffing partner can cover full tuition for qualified applicants who commit to work.
BHI provides Nursing Assistant training with classroom, lab, and a 21-hour clinical rotation. Multiple schedules are available including weekday, evening, and weekend options, and graduates receive job search assistance.
RCC’s Workforce Development CNA course provides classroom instruction and clinical training in a long‑term care facility covering patient care, terminology, documentation, and legal/ethical topics. Multiple daytime, evening, and weekend cohorts are offered across the year.
Massachusetts is a strong state for Certified Nursing Assistants, both in terms of employment opportunities and earning potential. With more than 36,790 CNAs working statewide and over 705 healthcare facilities, there are ample opportunities to begin or advance your CNA career. According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Massachusetts has more than 342 nursing homes, 83 hospitals, and 280 home health agencies that employ CNAs. While these counts are based on CMS data and may not capture every facility in the state, they demonstrate the wide range of job opportunities available.
Salary Overview
The median annual income for all workers in Massachusetts is about $60,690, or $29.18 per hour. CNAs in Massachusetts earn a median of $44,200 annually, which equals about $21.25 per hour. While CNA wages are below the statewide average, they remain higher than the national CNA median and provide a solid entry point into healthcare with opportunities for advancement into higher-paying roles such as Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN).
Job Outlook
The outlook for CNA employment in Massachusetts remains strong. With 36,790 CNAs currently employed and a large number of healthcare facilities statewide, job openings are expected to remain steady. The state's aging population, strong hospital network, and growing demand for long-term care continue to drive hiring needs. Major employment hubs include Greater Boston, Worcester County, and Western Massachusetts, with leading health systems such as Mass General Brigham, Beth Israel Lahey Health, UMass Memorial Health, Baystate Health, and Boston Medical Center Health System employing thousands of CNAs across hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home health settings. Many CNAs gain experience and later pursue advanced nursing education, creating ongoing turnover and new opportunities each year.
Becoming a CNA in Massachusetts is a fast and practical way to start a healthcare career. Training programs can be completed in just a few weeks, allowing you to transition quickly into paid employment. With more than 342 nursing homes and a robust hospital network, Massachusetts offers CNAs a diverse range of workplaces—from major hospitals to community-based care providers. The state's many community colleges and vocational schools provide approved CNA training, often serving as a stepping stone to LPN or RN programs. CNA work offers both meaningful patient interaction and a pathway toward long-term advancement in healthcare. You can also explore free CNA classes, online CNA programs, or accelerated CNA programs available across the state.
CNA Salaries across Massachusetts
CNA salaries vary by region, with urban areas like Boston and its surrounding suburbs typically offering higher pay than smaller metropolitan or rural regions. Below is a breakdown of CNA salaries across Massachusetts.
Compare CNA salaries across different metropolitan areas and regions in Massachusetts.
Salary data includes both annual and hourly wages for nursing assistants.
Frequently Asked Questions about CNA Classes in Massachusetts
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, CNA programs require a minimum of 75 hours of training, which includes 16 hours of clinical practice. Most students complete their training in 4–12 weeks, depending on whether they choose a full-time, part-time, or accelerated program schedule.
How much does CNA training cost in Massachusetts?
CNA classes in Massachusetts generally cost between $800 and $1,500. Some programs may be more expensive at private schools, while community colleges and healthcare providers often offer lower-cost options. Employers may also cover tuition in exchange for a work commitment.
Are there free CNA classes in Massachusetts?
Yes. Many nursing homes, hospitals, and state workforce programs in Massachusetts offer free CNA training. These are often employer-sponsored programs where you agree to work for the facility after completing training and certification.
Are online CNA programs available in Massachusetts?
Several schools in Massachusetts offer hybrid CNA programs that combine online coursework with in-person clinical training. While theory can often be completed online, state rules require that clinical skills be performed in a supervised, hands-on healthcare setting.
Are accelerated (4-week) CNA programs available in Massachusetts?
Yes, some schools and healthcare providers in Massachusetts offer accelerated CNA programs that can be completed in as little as 4 weeks. These programs are intensive and best for students who can commit to full-time study and clinical practice.
How do I become a CNA in Massachusetts?
To become a CNA in Massachusetts, you must complete a state-approved training program, pass the Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation (NACE), and be listed on the Massachusetts Nurse Aide Registry. The process is overseen by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH).
I’m a CNA in another state. Can I transfer my license to Massachusetts?
Yes. Massachusetts allows CNAs certified in other states to transfer their license through reciprocity. This process places you on the Massachusetts Nurse Aide Registry without retaking training. Learn more in our guide to CNA License Reciprocity in Massachusetts.
How often do I need to renew my CNA license in Massachusetts?
CNAs in Massachusetts must renew their certification every 24 months. To remain active on the registry, you must work at least one documented day (8 consecutive hours) of paid employment in an approved healthcare setting during that period. See our CNA License & Registration page for renewal details.
How can I check if my CNA license is active in Massachusetts?
The median CNA salary in Massachusetts is $44,200 per year, or about $21.25 per hour. Pay can vary by region, employer, and years of experience. Many CNAs in Massachusetts also use the role as a stepping stone to LPN or RN careers.
Where do CNAs work in Massachusetts?
Certified Nursing Assistants in Massachusetts work in hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, assisted living facilities, and home health agencies. Opportunities are widely available across both urban and rural areas.
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.