CNA Classes & Programs in Salem, Massachusetts
Get Information from CNA Programs in Salem and Nearby
Salem is home to 1 CNA program for those looking to begin a career as a certified nursing assistant along Massachusetts’ North Shore. Training here equips participants with foundational skills aligned with state requirements while connecting them to healthcare employment possibilities throughout Salem’s established medical community.
The available program features an accelerated option that helps candidates complete their studies efficiently before seeking certification or entry-level work at local providers, including both hospital-based settings and long-term care facilities nearby.
In the Boston-Cambridge-Nashua region, CNAs earn around $45,620 annually according to BLS OEWS (May 2023), reflecting competitive wages compared with many other areas across Massachusetts.
Quick Facts About Salem
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Population44,541Residents
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CNA Programs1State-approved Programs
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Median Income$79,196Median 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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Facilities2CMS Healthcare Facilities1 Nursing Homes • 1 Hospital
Get Information from CNA Programs in Salem and Nearby
Schools in Salem 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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- Tuition costs & financial aid options
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- Program details & requirements
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Browse CNA Classes in Salem
Salem offers 1 CNA program with an accelerated curriculum designed for rapid completion of coursework leading toward Massachusetts certification eligibility. This focused approach qualifies graduates quickly so they can pursue roles where trained CNAs remain needed by regional employers, supporting both skill development and entry into patient care positions upon graduation.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: not available in Salem, but free classes are available in other cities throughout Massachusetts.
Accelerated programs: available in Salem and are usually 4-week programs, sometimes 3 or 5 weeks.
Online programs not available in Salem but are offered in other cities throughout Massachusetts.
Royal Health Care Institute At Salem
Program Details
CNA Employment Opportunities in Salem
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 metropolitan area, there are approximately 25,200 employed certified nursing assistants working across hospitals and long-term care providers according to recent labor market reports. Demand continues due to population growth along the North Shore as well as expanded service offerings at regional healthcare institutions.
The CNA salary in Salem corresponds closely with metro averages: In this region, CNAs earn around $45,620 per year or about $21.93 per hour based on BLS OEWS (May 2023) data; this surpasses Massachusetts’ statewide median salary of $44,200, indicating relatively strong earnings potential locally when compared with other areas statewide.
CNA career prospects are supported by major organizations such as Salem Rehab Center—a CMS-certified facility with 123 beds operating under corporate ownership—and North Shore Medical Center located at Highland Avenue; this voluntary non-profit acute care hospital holds an overall rating of four stars from CMS while providing emergency services within Salem itself.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Working in Nearby Cities
Looking beyond Salem? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Chelsea, Braintree, Tewksbury, Gloucester, and Danvers, 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 Salem (1 facilities)
1 nursing home in Salem providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
Facility Details
Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Salem (1 facilities)
1 hospital in Salem offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
Facility Details
Requirements to Work as a CNA in Salem, MA
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Salem, 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 Salem 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 Salem
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Salem?
Most CNA programs in Salem 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 Salem?
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 Salem?
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 Salem?
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 Salem?
Yes, some schools in Salem 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 Salem there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Chelsea, Braintree, Tewksbury, Gloucester, and Danvers. 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 Salem?
CNAs in Salem 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.