CNA Classes & Programs in Carthage, Missouri
2 state-approved CNA programs in Carthage, including free options. 4-week and online programs are offered in other Missouri cities.
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CNA training in Carthage
- Programs
- 2
- state-approved
- Median CNA pay
- $34,610
- $16.64 an hour
- CNA jobs
- 900
- in the Joplin region
- Healthcare facilities
- 3
- 2 nursing homes and 1 hospital
- Population
- 15,491
- residents
Sources: BLS OEWS (May 2023), CMS (July 2025).
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What brings you here?
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Carthage has 2 CNA programs, offering opportunities for individuals interested in starting a career as a certified nursing assistant. These programs are structured to meet Missouri’s requirements for CNA certification, helping students prepare for both the state exam and hands-on patient care roles. With several established healthcare facilities, Carthage provides a supportive environment for aspiring CNAs.
Local CNA classes in Carthage include options for those seeking free CNA classes, making entry into healthcare more accessible. Graduates often secure employment at regional nursing homes or hospitals, building skills that are valued across patient care settings. In the Joplin region, CNAs earn around $34,610 annually—a figure that provides insight into local earning potential compared to other areas of Missouri.
CNA programs in Carthage help students qualify for state certification and prepare for immediate employment opportunities in the area’s healthcare sector. With essential skills and local support, new CNAs are positioned to launch rewarding careers.
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Browse CNA Classes in Carthage
Carthage provides 2 CNA classes that prepare students for Missouri CNA certification and registry placement. These programs offer practical instruction and support career readiness, including an option for free training. Graduates gain the knowledge and clinical skills needed to pursue employment throughout the local area, addressing regional healthcare demand with job-focused preparation.
Program Types in Carthage
| Type | In Carthage | Where to look |
|---|---|---|
| Free or employer-paid | 1 program | Mercy Hospital - Carthage ↓ |
| 4-week (accelerated) | Not in Carthage | See other Missouri cities → |
| Online or hybrid | Not in Carthage | See other Missouri cities → |
| Evening or weekend | Not in Carthage | See other Missouri cities → |
A program can appear under more than one type. Counts come from each program's published details.
Both CNA programs in Carthage
Lowest published cost first.
Mercy Hospital - Carthage
CostFreeHours175Weeks–
- Address
- 3125 Dr Russell Smith Way, Carthage, MO 64836
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (417) 358-8121
Mercy Hospital Carthage provides an employer‑sponsored 175‑hour training pathway for Patient Care Associate roles that meets Missouri DHSS CNA requirements. Training is provided at no cost for hired candidates.
Visit websiteCarthage Technical Center
Cost–Hours–Weeks–
- Address
- 1100 E. Airport Dr, Carthage, MO 64836
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (417) 359-7095
Carthage Technical Center offers CNA training through its health science pathways for secondary and adult learners. The district notes students can earn CNA certification and that financial aid is available for qualifying adult programs.
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.
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Explore CNA Programs in Other Cities
Nearby cities
Major Missouri cities
- Kansas City8 programs
- St. Louis15 programs
- Springfield12 programs
- Columbia6 programs
- Independence3 programs
- Lee's Summit3 programs
CNA Employment Opportunities in Carthage
| Median annual pay | $34,610 |
|---|---|
| Median hourly pay | $16.64 |
| CNA jobs in the region | 900 |
| Salary region | Joplin |
Source: BLS OEWS (May 2023), median wages for nursing assistants.
CNA jobs in Carthage are part of a broader employment landscape in the Joplin region, where approximately 900 certified nursing assistants work across various healthcare settings. The need for CNAs remains steady in this part of Missouri, reflecting ongoing demand from area hospitals and long-term care facilities. Those considering a CNA career can expect a consistent presence of job opportunities throughout Carthage and nearby communities.
The median CNA salary in Carthage is best represented by data from the Joplin area. In this region, CNAs earn around $34,610 per year (or $16.64 per hour), according to BLS OEWS (May 2023). This figure is slightly below the statewide median salary of $36,260 for Missouri and reflects local pay rates for entry-level nursing assistants working across Jasper County and adjacent areas.
Carthage features a range of CMS-certified healthcare employers. Notable nursing homes include Carthage Health and Rehabilitation Center, a 120-bed facility with an average of 108 residents, and St Luke's Nursing and Rehabilitation, a nonprofit center with 95 beds. Mercy Hospital Carthage also serves as a major regional hospital offering acute care services and employing CNAs in various roles.
Nursing Homes Hiring CNAs in Carthage (2 facilities)
2 nursing homes in Carthage providing CNA employment opportunities. Showing top 2 facilities ranked by CNA hours per resident per day (as provided by official data). Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
| Nursing home | Beds | CNA hrs/day |
|---|---|---|
| Carthage Health And Rehabilitation Center1901 Buena Vista Avenue(417) 358-1937Map | 120 | 2.2 |
| St Luke'S Nursing And Rehabilitation1220 East Fairview(417) 358-9084Map | 95 | – |
Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Carthage (1 facility)
1 hospital in Carthage offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
| Hospital | Rating |
|---|---|
| Mercy Hospital CarthageCritical Access Hospitals · 3125 Dr Russell Smith Way(417) 358-8121Map | – |
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 Carthage? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Joplin, Lockwood, Lamar, El Dorado Springs, and Anderson, or browse the Missouri 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 Carthage, MO
To work as a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) in Carthage, you must meet the statewide CNA requirements set by Missouri. These include completing a Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS)–approved Certified Nurse Assistant training program, passing the state competency examination administered by D&SDT-Headmaster, and being listed on the Missouri CNA Registry.
- Completion of at least 175 total hours of CNA training (75 classroom hours and 100 supervised clinical hours)
- Completion of 16 hours of required instruction before any direct resident care
- Background screening compliance per Missouri requirements
- Passing both the written knowledge test (75 questions, 60 minutes) and the skills evaluation (five randomly selected skills including mandatory hand washing)
- Up to three total exam attempts within 90 days of the first failed exam attempt; both exam portions must be completed within six months of training completion
- Placement on the Missouri CNA Registry after successfully passing the competency examination
Once certified, you can work in nursing homes, hospitals, assisted living facilities, rehabilitation centers, and home health agencies throughout Carthage and across Missouri. CNAs must perform at least one day (eight hours) of paid nursing-related services every 24 months to maintain active certification.
Already certified in another state? Missouri offers interstate endorsement (reciprocity) for CNAs who are active and in good standing in another U.S. state. Applicants must provide verification that their training and competency evaluation met federal OBRA requirements. Learn more in our CNA License Reciprocity in Missouri guide.
For complete details on training, testing, renewal, and maintaining certification, see our full CNA License & Registration in Missouri 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
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Frequently Asked Questions about CNA Classes in Carthage
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Carthage?
Most CNA programs in Carthage 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 Carthage?
Prices differ by school, so ask the CNA programs in Carthage directly for their current costs. One program is free or employer-paid. Some schools and healthcare employers may cover the cost or reimburse you after hiring.
Are there free CNA classes in Carthage?
Yes. Mercy Hospital - Carthage offers free or employer-paid CNA training. Some hospitals, nursing homes, and workforce programs may also offer free CNA training in exchange for a work commitment.
Are there online CNA training options available in Carthage?
No program in Carthage is listed with online classes. Online and hybrid programs are offered in other Missouri cities. Clinical training is always in person.
Are there any 4-week CNA classes in Carthage?
No 4-week program is listed in Carthage. 4-week CNA programs are offered in other Missouri cities, usually in 3 to 5 weeks.
Which nearby cities are there for CNA classes and job opportunities?
Near Carthage there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Joplin, Lockwood, Lamar, El Dorado Springs and Anderson. You can also look at the Missouri state page to find more.
How do I get listed on the Missouri CNA registry?
To work as a CNA in Missouri, you must be added to the official state registry. See our Missouri CNA registry guide for step-by-step instructions.
Where do CNAs work in Carthage?
CNAs in Carthage are employed in hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, and other healthcare facilities. CMS lists 2 nursing homes and 1 hospital in Carthage. 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.