CNA Classes & Programs in Boston, Massachusetts
Get Information from CNA Programs in Boston and Nearby
Boston offers 6 CNA programs, making it a central hub for aspiring nursing assistants in Massachusetts. As the state's capital and a key part of the Boston-Cambridge-Nashua metro area, Boston provides students with access to diverse educational paths toward CNA certification, including free CNA classes and accelerated training options for those seeking a faster entry into healthcare roles.
Local CNA classes prepare students for direct patient care through hands-on experiences and classroom learning. Training opportunities are enhanced by the presence of 12 hospitals, 12 nursing homes, and 16 home health agencies throughout Boston, connecting graduates to a range of employment settings. The city’s healthcare sector is anchored by respected institutions, ensuring that new CNAs can gain practical skills in real-world environments after completing their program.
In the Boston-Cambridge-Nashua region, CNAs earn around $45,620 annually—a figure above the statewide median. This solid earning potential, paired with varied CNA program choices in Boston, allows students to confidently pursue state certification and begin their careers in one of New England’s leading healthcare markets.
Quick Facts About Boston
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Population665,945Residents
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CNA Programs6State-approved Programs
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Median Income$89,212Median Annual Income
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CNA Hourly Rate$21.93Median Hourly Rate
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CNA Yearly Salary$45,620Median Annual Salary
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Facilities40CMS Healthcare Facilities12 Nursing Homes • 12 Hospitals • 16 Home Health Agencies
Get Information from CNA Programs in Boston and Nearby
Schools in Boston 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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- Upcoming start dates & schedules
- Tuition costs & financial aid options
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- Program details & requirements
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Browse CNA Classes in Boston
Students in Boston can choose from 6 CNA programs that prepare them for Massachusetts state certification and success on the state registry. With options including free CNA training and accelerated programs, these courses equip students with patient care skills while supporting flexible scheduling needs. Graduates are well prepared for job opportunities throughout Boston’s healthcare sector, where certified nursing assistants are valued for their training and readiness to enter the workforce.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: available in Boston through various funding sources including employer sponsorship and grants.
Accelerated programs: available in Boston and are usually 4-week programs, sometimes 3 or 5 weeks.
Online programs not available in Boston but are offered in other cities throughout Massachusetts.
C&S Healthcare Training & Staffing
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Roxbury Community College
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The English High School
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Edward M Kennedy Academy For Health Careers
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Madison Park Tech Voc High School Dept of Adult Ed
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Quincy College ArLab
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CNA Employment Opportunities in Boston
CNA Salary Information
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Annual Salary$45,620Median Yearly Pay
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Hourly Rate$21.93Median Per Hour
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Available Jobs25,200CNA Positions
In the Boston-Cambridge-Nashua metro area, approximately 25,200 certified nursing assistants are employed according to BLS OEWS (May 2023). This large workforce reflects sustained demand for CNA jobs in Boston across numerous healthcare settings, including urban hospitals and long-term care facilities throughout the region.
The CNA salary in Boston is best represented by metro-level data. In the Boston-Cambridge-Nashua region, CNAs earn a median annual salary of $45,620, or about $21.93 per hour based on BLS OEWS (May 2023) data. This median wage is higher than the statewide Massachusetts figure of $44,200 per year, suggesting that local pay rates may be particularly favorable for new and experienced CNAs working within this metropolitan area.
Boston features an extensive network of CMS-certified facilities that create employment opportunities for new CNAs. Notable examples include Spaulding Nursing and Therapy Center - Brighton (123 beds), Boston Home, Inc (96 beds), and Laurel Ridge Rehab and Skilled Care Center—all nonprofit organizations providing skilled care. Major hospitals such as Brigham and Women's Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital anchor acute care services in the city. Home health agencies like Suburban Home Health Care, Inc further expand job options for graduates entering this essential field.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Working in Nearby Cities
Looking beyond Boston? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Dorchester, Cambridge, Worcester, Lowell, and Brockton, or browse the Massachusetts 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 Boston (12 facilities)
12 nursing homes in Boston providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
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Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Boston (12 facilities)
12 hospitals in Boston offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
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Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
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Boston Medical Center
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Home Health Agencies Hiring CNAs in Boston (16 facilities)
16 home health agencies in Boston providing CNA career opportunities. Source: CMS home health agencies (July 2025)
Suburban Home Health Care, Inc
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Uphams Home Health Care
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Bethel Health System Llc
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Solace Healthcare Solutions, Llc
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Requirements to Work as a CNA in Boston, MA
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Boston, you must meet the statewide CNA requirements set by Massachusetts. These include completing a DPH-approved Nurse Aide Training Program, passing the state competency exam administered by D&SDT-HEADMASTER, and being listed on the Massachusetts Nurse Aide Registry.
- At least 75 total hours of training (classroom/lab + clinical), including 16 hours of required instruction before any direct resident contact
- At least 16 hours of supervised clinical practice in a licensed healthcare facility
- Passing both parts of the DPH-approved exam (knowledge and skills) administered by D&SDT-HEADMASTER
- Placement on the Massachusetts Nurse Aide Registry (employers verify registry status)
Once certified, you can apply for CNA jobs at hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies throughout Boston and the surrounding area.
Already certified in another state? You may qualify for reciprocity to transfer your certification into Massachusetts without retraining. Learn more in our CNA License Reciprocity in Massachusetts guide.
For full details on testing, certification, renewal, and maintaining an active listing, see our step-by-step CNA License & Registration in Massachusetts 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 Boston
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Boston?
Most CNA programs in Boston 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 Boston?
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 Boston?
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 Boston?
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 Boston?
Yes, some schools in Boston 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 Boston there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Dorchester, Cambridge, Worcester, Lowell, and Brockton. You can also look at the Massachusetts state page to find more.
How do I get listed on the Massachusetts CNA registry?
To work as a CNA in Massachusetts, you must be added to the official state registry. See our Massachusetts CNA registry guide for step-by-step instructions.
Where do CNAs work in Boston?
CNAs in Boston 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.