CNA Classes & Programs in Columbia, Missouri
Get Information from CNA Programs in Columbia and Nearby
Columbia is home to 6 CNA programs designed to train individuals seeking entry into Missouri’s healthcare workforce. As a recognized college town in central Missouri with significant medical resources nearby, Columbia provides several avenues toward becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant, including accelerated program options.
The city’s CNA courses focus on building essential clinical skills required by employers while preparing graduates for state certification exams or placement on the Missouri registry of nurse aides. In Columbia, CNAs earn around $38,400 annually according to BLS OEWS (May 2023), which is higher than the statewide benchmark salary of $36,260—offering additional incentive for those starting their careers here.
CNA graduates may explore employment opportunities at numerous area hospitals or long-term care facilities after completing one of Columbia’s available accelerated or traditional training programs.
Quick Facts About Columbia
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Population126,172Residents
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CNA Programs6State-approved Programs
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Median Income$60,455Median Annual Income
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CNA Hourly Rate$18.46Median Hourly Rate
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CNA Yearly Salary$38,400Median Annual Salary
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Facilities14CMS Healthcare Facilities8 Nursing Homes • 4 Hospitals • 2 Home Health Agencies
Get Information from CNA Programs in Columbia and Nearby
Schools in Columbia 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
- Class locations & formats
- Program details & requirements
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Browse CNA Classes in Columbia
Columbia’s 6 CNA programs prepare students with practical knowledge needed for Missouri certification and registry placement—featuring both traditional formats and accelerated options that allow faster entry into patient care roles where certified aides are sought throughout Columbia’s medical community.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: available in Columbia through various funding sources including employer sponsorship and grants.
Accelerated programs: available in Columbia and are usually 4-week programs, sometimes 3 or 5 weeks.
Online programs not available in Columbia but are offered in other cities throughout Missouri.
The Villa At Blue Ridge
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Tiger Place
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Lenoir Healthcare Center
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Columbia Post Acute
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Job Point-Columbia
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Columbia Area Career Center
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CNA Employment Opportunities in Columbia
CNA Salary Information
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Annual Salary$38,400Median Yearly Pay
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Hourly Rate$18.46Median Per Hour
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Available Jobs1,730CNA Positions
In Columbia, about 1,730 Certified Nursing Assistants work across various settings ranging from hospital systems to long-term residential facilities based on regional data from BLS OEWS (May 2023). CNA jobs in Columbia are available in both acute care and long-term care environments, reflecting the city’s role as a regional medical hub.
The median CNA salary in Columbia is approximately $38,400 per year—or $18.46 per hour—which exceeds the statewide median salary of $36,260 according to BLS OEWS (May 2023). CNA salary in Columbia may reflect higher local demand and competitive compensation among major employers.
CNA job opportunities exist at CMS-certified sites including Villa At Blue Ridge (nearly 100 beds) and The Bluffs (over 130 beds) under nonprofit ownership serving skilled nursing needs locally. Hospitals such as Boone Hospital Center—a key acute-care provider—and University Of Missouri Health Care offer further career paths, while Centerwell Home Health rounds out home-based job prospects within Columbia's diverse network of certified employers supporting direct patient services throughout central Missouri.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Ready to get certified and start your CNA career in Columbia? Fill out one quick form to get program details and start dates from accredited schools in your area.
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Working in Nearby Cities
Looking beyond Columbia? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Jefferson City, O'Fallon, St. Louis, Kirkwood, and Maryland Heights, 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.
Nursing Homes Hiring CNAs in Columbia (8 facilities)
8 nursing homes in Columbia providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
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Neighborhoods Rehab & Skilled Nursing By Tigerplac
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Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Columbia (4 facilities)
4 hospitals in Columbia offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
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University Of Missouri Health Care
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Home Health Agencies Hiring CNAs in Columbia (2 facilities)
2 home health agencies in Columbia providing CNA career opportunities. Source: CMS home health agencies (July 2025)
Centerwell Home Health
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Orthopaedic And Medical Home Health, Llc
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Requirements to Work as a CNA in Columbia, MO
To work as a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) in Columbia, 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 Columbia 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
Frequently Asked Questions about CNA Classes in Columbia
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Columbia?
Most CNA programs in Columbia 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 Columbia?
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 Columbia?
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 Columbia?
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 Columbia?
Yes, some schools in Columbia 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 Columbia there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Jefferson City, O'Fallon, St. Louis, Kirkwood, and Maryland Heights. 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 Columbia?
CNAs in Columbia 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.