CNA Classes & Programs in Newark, New Jersey

5 state-approved CNA programs in Newark, including free and evening options. 4-week and online programs are offered in other New Jersey cities.

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CNA training in Newark

Programs
5
state-approved
Median CNA pay
$41,450
$19.93 an hour
CNA jobs
31,610
across New Jersey
Healthcare facilities
8
5 nursing homes and 3 hospitals
Population
307,355
residents

Sources: BLS OEWS (May 2023), CMS (July 2025).

On this page
  1. Get info from schools
  2. CNA classes in Newark
  3. Jobs and pay
  4. Working nearby
  5. Requirements
  6. Career growth
  7. FAQ

What brings you here?

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Newark offers 5 CNA programs, giving aspiring nursing assistants access to state-approved training in a major New Jersey city. Individuals interested in starting a healthcare career here can explore a variety of CNA classes designed to support preparation for certification and practical skill-building. Free CNA classes are available for eligible students, making entry into the field more accessible.

CNA training options in Newark are complemented by the city's diverse healthcare landscape, which includes several hospitals and skilled nursing facilities. After completing coursework, graduates may find job opportunities at facilities such as Saint Michael's Medical Center and New Vista Nursing & Rehabilitation Center. Statewide in New Jersey, CNAs earn around $41,450 annually—a figure used as a benchmark since city-specific salary data is not available.

CNA programs in Newark provide a direct path toward state certification and employment in the region’s medical centers and long-term care settings. Prospective students should review local options to identify the best fit for their schedule and career goals.

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Browse CNA Classes in Newark

Students in Newark can choose from 5 CNA programs designed to prepare them for New Jersey state certification. Options include traditional classroom instruction as well as free CNA training for qualified applicants. These programs focus on job readiness and hands-on experience, enabling graduates to pursue healthcare careers where CNAs are needed throughout Newark and the broader region.

Program Types in Newark

TypeIn NewarkWhere to look
Free or employer-paid1 programSamuel Morris Career Institute of New Jersey ↓
4-week (accelerated)Not in NewarkSee other New Jersey cities →
Online or hybridNot in NewarkSee other New Jersey cities →
Evening or weekend1 programSelect Health Career Training Center ↓

A program can appear under more than one type. Counts come from each program's published details.

All 5 CNA programs in Newark

Lowest published cost first.

Samuel Morris Career Institute of New Jersey

Career School · Newark, NJ 07102FreeFinancial aidJob placement helpCostFreeHours–Weeks–
Address
701-703 Mccarter Highway, Newark, NJ 07102
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Private career school offering CNA training in downtown Newark with small classes and accessible location. The school advertises potential free training for eligible students and promotes job opportunities during and after study.

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Select Health Career Training Center

Career School · Newark, NJ 07102EveningCost$1,400Hours–Weeks–
Address
9-25 Alling Street, Newark, NJ 07102
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Schedule
Evening classes

Select Health Career Training Center offers CNA training with small classroom instruction and hands-on learning. Day and evening cohorts are available.

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Academy of Training & Employment

Career School · Newark, NJ 07102Financial aidJob placement helpCost–Hours90Weeks–
Address
936 Broad Street, Newark, NJ 07102
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The CNA program lists 90 total hours (50 classroom, 40 clinical) with classroom and clinical instruction. The school highlights affordable pricing and potential scholarships/workforce funding; contact admissions for current schedules and costs.

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Essex Co. Voc. Tech.

High School · Newark, NJ 07103Cost–Hours–Weeks–
Address
91 W. Market Street, Newark, NJ 07103
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Essex Co. Voc. Tech. is a state-approved CNA training provider. Contact them directly for program details and enrollment information.

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Essex County College - Training Program

Community College · Newark, NJ 07102Cost–Hours–Weeks–
Address
303 University Avenue, Newark, NJ 07102
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ECC’s non-credit Certified Nurse Aide program is approved by the New Jersey Department of Health and includes classroom, lab, and clinical training.

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Cost, 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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CNA Employment Opportunities in Newark

CNA pay and jobs in Newark
Median annual pay$41,450
Median hourly pay$19.93
CNA jobs across New Jersey31,610
Salary regionNew Jersey (statewide)

Source: BLS OEWS (May 2023), median wages for nursing assistants.

CNA jobs in Newark reflect ongoing demand for skilled nursing assistants across various care settings. With a population of over 300,000, healthcare facilities consistently seek certified CNAs to support patient care teams throughout the city’s hospitals and nursing homes.

City-specific salary data is not available, so statewide figures provide the best reference. CNAs in New Jersey earn around $41,450 per year or $19.93 per hour according to BLS OEWS (May 2023). These earnings represent the median across the state and can vary based on employer type, facility location, and experience level.

Notable healthcare employers in Newark include New Vista Nursing & Rehabilitation Center (340 beds), Sinai Post Acute Nursing and Rehab Center (430 beds), Forest Hills Center for Rehabilitation and Healing (120 beds), Broadway House For Continuing Care (78 beds), and New Community Extended Care Facility (180 beds). Hospital-based employment can be found at Saint Michael's Medical Center, Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, and The University Hospital. Facility details are based on CMS-certified data as of July 2025.

Nursing Homes Hiring CNAs in Newark (5 facilities)

5 nursing homes in Newark providing CNA employment opportunities. Showing top 5 facilities ranked by CNA hours per resident per day (as provided by official data). Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)

Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Newark (3 facilities)

3 hospitals in Newark offering CNA employment opportunities. Showing top 3 facilities ranked by overall rating (as provided by official data). Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)

HospitalRating
Saint Michael'S Medical CenterAcute Care Hospitals · 111 Central Avenue(973) 877-5000Map4/5
Newark Beth Israel Medical CenterAcute Care Hospitals · 201 Lyons Ave(973) 926-7000Map2/5
The University HospitalAcute Care Hospitals · 150 Bergen St(973) 972-4300Map1/5

Sources

Working in Nearby Cities and Other States

Working in Nearby Cities

Looking beyond Newark? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Jersey City, Paterson, Elizabeth, Edison, and East Orange, or browse the New Jersey 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 Newark, NJ

To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Newark, you must meet the statewide CNA requirements set by New Jersey. These include completing a NJDOH-approved Nurse Aide Training Program, passing the state competency exam administered by PSI, and being listed on the New Jersey Nurse Aide Registry.

  • At least 90 total hours of training (50 hours classroom + 40 hours supervised clinical experience)
  • Completion of required instruction in communication, residents' rights, safety, infection control, and emergency procedures before any direct resident contact
  • Passing both parts of the PSI-administered competency exam (skills evaluation and written/oral test)
  • Criminal Background Investigation (CBI) with fingerprinting through the New Jersey State Police and FBI
  • Placement on the New Jersey Nurse Aide Registry maintained by PSI for NJDOH

Once certified, you can work in nursing homes, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and home health agencies throughout Newark and the surrounding area.

Already certified in another state? You may qualify for reciprocity to transfer your certification into New Jersey without retraining. Learn more in our CNA License Reciprocity in New Jersey guide.

For full details on testing, certification, renewal, and maintaining an active listing, see our step-by-step CNA License & Registration in New Jersey guide.

See how to become a CNA in New Jersey

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 Newark.

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Frequently Asked Questions about CNA Classes in Newark

How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Newark?

Most CNA programs in Newark 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 Newark?

Select Health Career Training Center lists a price of $1,400. Ask the other programs in Newark for theirs. 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 Newark?

Yes. Samuel Morris Career Institute of New Jersey 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 Newark?

No program in Newark is listed with online classes. Online and hybrid programs are offered in other New Jersey cities. Clinical training is always in person.

Are there any 4-week CNA classes in Newark?

No 4-week program is listed in Newark. 4-week CNA programs are offered in other New Jersey cities, usually in 3 to 5 weeks.

Which nearby cities are there for CNA classes and job opportunities?

Near Newark there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Jersey City, Paterson, Elizabeth, Edison and East Orange. You can also look at the New Jersey state page to find more.

How do I get listed on the New Jersey CNA registry?

To work as a CNA in New Jersey, you must be added to the official state registry. See our New Jersey CNA registry guide for step-by-step instructions.

Where do CNAs work in Newark?

CNAs in Newark are employed in hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, and other healthcare facilities. CMS lists 5 nursing homes and 3 hospitals in Newark. 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.