CNA Classes & Programs in Portage, Michigan
1 state-approved CNA program in Portage, including 4-week options. Free and online programs are offered in other Michigan cities.
Free to use. No obligation to enroll. Compare multiple programs. We may earn a fee when you request information from schools.
CNA training in Portage
- Programs
- 1
- state-approved
- Median CNA pay
- $38,010
- $18.28 an hour
- CNA jobs
- 1,260
- in the Kalamazoo-Portage region
- Healthcare facilities
- 8
- 1 nursing home and 7 home health agencies
- Population
- 48,936
- residents
Sources: BLS OEWS (May 2023), CMS (July 2025).
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What brings you here?
Free to use. No obligation to enroll. Compare multiple programs. We may earn a fee when you request information from schools.
Aspiring CNAs in Portage can choose from 1 state-approved CNA training program designed to help them launch careers in Michigan's healthcare sector. As part of the Kalamazoo–Portage metro area, Portage offers convenient access to foundational education needed by those seeking entry-level patient care positions within local facilities.
This CNA course equips students with practical knowledge required for Michigan certification while preparing graduates for work at various types of providers—including skilled nursing homes and home health agencies found throughout Portage. In the Kalamazoo–Portage region, CNAs earn around $38,010 annually according to BLS OEWS (May 2023), just above Michigan’s median of $37,940.
CNA programs here may include accelerated options so students can complete their training quickly before seeking employment or advancing further within allied health fields nearby.
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Browse CNA Classes in Portage
Portage offers 1 accelerated CNA program that prepares individuals for Michigan certification and immediate entry into local healthcare jobs where trained assistants are valued team members. With an option for faster completion through an accelerated format, this CNA training program enables students to qualify efficiently while gaining vital clinical skills essential for supporting patients throughout Portage’s network of care providers.
Program Types in Portage
| Type | In Portage | Where to look |
|---|---|---|
| Free or employer-paid | Not in Portage | See other Michigan cities → |
| 4-week (accelerated) | 1 program | Ross Medical Education Center ↓ |
| Online or hybrid | Not in Portage | See other Michigan cities → |
| Evening or weekend | Not in Portage | See other Michigan cities → |
A program can appear under more than one type. Counts come from each program's published details.
The CNA program in Portage
Ross Medical Education Center
Cost–Hours–Weeks2
- Address
- 6235 South Westnedge Avenue, Portage, MI 49002
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (866) 815-5578
Hands-on Nursing Assistant training in essential patient care skills with clinical experience at local partner facilities. Program can be completed in as few as 2 weeks.
Visit websiteCost, hours and weeks are each school's published figures, so confirm them with the school. A dash means the school has not published it.
CNA Programs Near Portage
Looking for more options near Portage?
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Explore CNA Programs in Other Cities
Major Michigan cities
- Detroit18 programs
- Grand Rapids7 programs
- Warren4 programs
- Ann Arbor1 program
- Lansing5 programs
- Clinton Township2 programs
CNA Employment Opportunities in Portage
| Median annual pay | $38,010 |
|---|---|
| Median hourly pay | $18.28 |
| CNA jobs in the region | 1,260 |
| Salary region | Kalamazoo-Portage |
Source: BLS OEWS (May 2023), median wages for nursing assistants.
CNA jobs in Portage are part of the Kalamazoo–Portage metropolitan area, where about 1,260 certified nursing assistants are employed across diverse settings such as skilled nursing homes and home health agencies. The presence of multiple employers ensures steady demand for new graduates who have completed approved training programs locally.
The CNA salary in Portage closely matches regional figures: In Kalamazoo–Portage, CNAs typically earn a median of $38,010 annually or approximately $18.28 per hour based on BLS OEWS (May 2023) data. This amount is just above Michigan’s statewide median salary of $37,940 per year, offering stability and predictability for those starting out in this career path.
Major local employers include Medilodge of Portage—a CMS-certified nursing facility with 117 beds—serving long-term care patients within city limits. Additionally, Portage hosts a range of home health agencies such as Centerwell Home Health and Compassus Home Health that provide at-home patient support services while employing trained CNAs throughout the community's continuum of care options.
Nursing Homes Hiring CNAs in Portage (1 facility)
1 nursing home in Portage providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
| Nursing home | Beds | CNA hrs/day |
|---|---|---|
| Medilodge Of Portage7855 Currier Dr(269) 323-7748Map | 117 | 2.2 |
Home Health Agencies Hiring CNAs in Portage (7 facilities)
7 home health agencies in Portage providing CNA career opportunities. Showing top 5 facilities ranked by quality rating (as provided by official data). Source: CMS home health agencies (July 2025)
| Agency | Quality |
|---|---|
| Centerwell Home Health5148 Lovers Lane, Ste 210(269) 684-0004Map | 5.0/5 |
| Seasons Home Health Care950 Trade Centre Way Ste 140(269) 684-0004Map | 5.0/5 |
| Compassus Home Health5136 Lovers Ln, Ste 200A(888) 246-6322Map | 4.0/5 |
| Paragon Home Healthcare, Inc576 Romence Rd Ste 221(269) 343-0900Map | 3.5/5 |
| Advisacare Solutions Of Kalamazoo5401 Portage Rd, Suite 1(269) 372-7725Map | 3.0/5 |
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Working in Nearby Cities and Other States
Working in Nearby Cities
Looking beyond Portage? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Kalamazoo, Marshall, Dowagiac, Allegan, and Plainwell, or browse the Michigan 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.
Requirements to Work as a CNA in Portage, MI
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Portage, you must meet the statewide CNA requirements set by Michigan. These include completing a Michigan-approved Nurse Aide Training Program, passing the state competency exam administered by D&SDT–HEADMASTER, and being listed on the Michigan Nurse Aide Registry.
- At least 75 total hours of training (classroom, lab, and clinical instruction)
- Completion of 16 hours of required instruction before any direct resident contact
- Passing both parts of the state competency exam (knowledge and skills tests) administered by D&SDT–HEADMASTER
- Placement on the Michigan Nurse Aide Registry (MINAR) managed by the Bureau of Community and Health Systems
Once certified, you can apply for CNA positions in hospitals, nursing homes, and long-term care facilities throughout Portage and the surrounding area.
Already certified in another state? You may qualify for reciprocity to transfer your certification into Michigan without retraining. Learn more in our CNA License Reciprocity in Michigan guide.
For full details on testing, certification, renewal, and maintaining an active listing, see our step-by-step CNA License & Registration in Michigan 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
Ready to start? Get info from CNA schools in Portage.
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Frequently Asked Questions about CNA Classes in Portage
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Portage?
Most CNA programs in Portage can be completed in 4–12 weeks, depending on whether you choose a traditional, accelerated, or weekend schedule. The shortest published length here is 2 weeks, at Ross Medical Education Center.
How much does CNA training cost in Portage?
Contact the program in Portage directly for its current cost. Some schools and healthcare employers may cover the cost or reimburse you after hiring.
Are there free CNA classes in Portage?
No program in Portage is listed as free. Free CNA classes are offered in other Michigan cities. 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 Portage?
No program in Portage is listed with online classes. Online and hybrid programs are offered in other Michigan cities. Clinical training is always in person.
Are there any 4-week CNA classes in Portage?
Yes. Ross Medical Education Center is an accelerated program. Accelerated programs usually take 3 to 5 weeks, depending on class schedules and clinical requirements.
Which nearby cities are there for CNA classes and job opportunities?
Near Portage there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Kalamazoo, Marshall, Dowagiac, Allegan and Plainwell. You can also look at the Michigan state page to find more.
How do I get listed on the Michigan CNA registry?
To work as a CNA in Michigan, you must be added to the official state registry. See our Michigan CNA registry guide for step-by-step instructions.
Where do CNAs work in Portage?
CNAs in Portage are employed in hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, and other healthcare facilities. CMS lists 1 nursing home and 7 home health agencies in Portage. Many also use their CNA experience as a stepping stone to LPN or RN careers.
Information accuracy: requirements, salary data and other information are compiled from official sources but can change. Please confirm with the school or the state before making decisions. If you spot a mistake, let us know.