CNA Classes & Programs in New Bedford, Massachusetts
Get Information from CNA Programs in New Bedford and Nearby
New Bedford offers 5 CNA programs tailored to those pursuing a career as a certified nursing assistant in this historic port city. Students can select from traditional classroom-based instruction as well as one free CNA class and an accelerated program option for those seeking faster entry into the workforce. Each pathway provides access to foundational nursing skills needed in local healthcare environments.
CNA courses in New Bedford focus on preparing participants for hands-on patient care roles and Massachusetts CNA certification. In New Bedford, CNAs earn around $39,030 annually—a figure below the statewide median of $44,200—highlighting the importance of program selection and career planning for prospective students. Graduates are equipped to serve patients across various facility types within the region.
Free CNA classes and accelerated 4-week programs are available among New Bedford’s offerings, supporting flexible learning paths while meeting ongoing demand for certified assistants at local nursing homes such as Brandon Woods of New Bedford or Sacred Heart Nursing Home.
Quick Facts About New Bedford
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Population100,620Residents
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CNA Programs5State-approved Programs
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Median Income$54,604Median Annual Income
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CNA Hourly Rate$18.76Median Hourly Rate
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CNA Yearly Salary$39,030Median Annual Salary
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Facilities6CMS Nursing Homes
Get Information from CNA Programs in New Bedford and Nearby
Schools in New Bedford 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 New Bedford
New Bedford provides 5 CNA training programs that qualify students for Massachusetts state certification and help build essential caregiving skills. Options include free training and accelerated 4-week classes that allow rapid preparation for certification exams. With local demand for CNAs across diverse care settings, these CNA classes prepare graduates to confidently pursue employment opportunities throughout New Bedford’s healthcare community.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: available in New Bedford through various funding sources including employer sponsorship and grants.
Accelerated programs: available in New Bedford and are usually 4-week programs, sometimes 3 or 5 weeks.
Online programs not available in New Bedford but are offered in other cities throughout Massachusetts.
Greater New Bedford Reg Voc Tech High School
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Lifestream Employment & Training Services
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New Bedford High School
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Southcoast Health at St. Luke's Hospital
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Coastal Career Academy
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CNA Employment Opportunities in New Bedford
CNA Salary Information
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Annual Salary$39,030Median Yearly Pay
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Hourly Rate$18.76Median Per Hour
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Available Jobs940CNA Positions
In the New Bedford region, approximately 940 CNAs are employed based on recent market data. This reflects steady demand within both skilled nursing facilities and long-term care centers throughout New Bedford and its surrounding communities.
The CNA salary in New Bedford is reported at a median annual wage of $39,030, or $18.76 per hour according to BLS OEWS (May 2023). This local figure is lower than the Massachusetts statewide median salary of $44,200 annually and reflects regional compensation conditions for those considering entry into this field within the city’s healthcare sector.
Nursing homes play a significant role as employers in New Bedford; notable CMS-certified facilities include Brandon Woods of New Bedford with 135 beds and Sacred Heart Nursing Home offering care with over 200 beds. Other major centers such as Hathaway Manor Extended Care and Care One at New Bedford provide further employment opportunities for new CNAs seeking practical experience within supportive clinical teams.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Working in Nearby Cities
Looking beyond New Bedford? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Easton, Dedham, Canton, Hanover, and East Bridgewater, 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 New Bedford (6 facilities)
6 nursing homes in New Bedford providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
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Requirements to Work as a CNA in New Bedford, MA
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in New Bedford, 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 New Bedford 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 New Bedford
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in New Bedford?
Most CNA programs in New Bedford 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 New Bedford?
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 New Bedford?
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 New Bedford?
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 New Bedford?
Yes, some schools in New Bedford 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 New Bedford there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Easton, Dedham, Canton, Hanover, and East Bridgewater. 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 New Bedford?
CNAs in New Bedford 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.