CNA Classes & Programs in Ithaca, New York
Get Information from CNA Programs in Ithaca and Nearby
Aspiring CNAs in Ithaca can choose from 1 state-approved CNA program focused on preparing students for meaningful roles across Tompkins County's healthcare settings. Known as a college-town setting anchored by higher education institutions like Cornell University, Ithaca offers accessible pathways into patient care fields through certified nurse aide training locally.
CNA classes here emphasize skill-building necessary for New York certification while supporting job readiness through practical learning experiences tailored to real-world care environments. With four CMS-certified nursing homes—including Oak Hill Rehabilitation and Nursing Care Center—and a major hospital like Cayuga Medical Center at Ithaca nearby, graduates benefit from diverse employment options upon completion of their studies.
In Ithaca, CNAs earn around $42,300 annually according to recent data specific to this region—a figure slightly below the statewide median but reflective of local economic conditions. Completing CNA courses locally can position students well within Ithaca’s established healthcare network.
Quick Facts About Ithaca
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Population31,359Residents
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CNA Programs1State-approved Programs
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Median Income$45,468Median Annual Income
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CNA Hourly Rate$20.34Median Hourly Rate
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CNA Yearly Salary$42,300Median Annual Salary
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Facilities6CMS Healthcare Facilities4 Nursing Homes • 1 Hospital • 1 Home Health Agencies
Get Information from CNA Programs in Ithaca and Nearby
Schools in Ithaca 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 Ithaca
Students in Ithaca can choose from 1 CNA program that prepares them for New York certification and entry into healthcare careers where CNAs play vital roles. The curriculum enables candidates to build essential skills while focusing on practical learning outcomes that support job readiness within Ithaca’s active medical community and surrounding areas experiencing steady demand for certified assistants.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: currently not available in New York.
Accelerated programs: currently not available in New York.
Online programs: currently not available in New York.
Beechtree Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing
Program Details
CNA Employment Opportunities in Ithaca
CNA Salary Information
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Annual Salary$42,300Median Yearly Pay
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Hourly Rate$20.34Median Per Hour
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Available Jobs360CNA Positions
CNA jobs in Ithaca are shaped by regional needs reflected by its own labor statistics rather than broader state benchmarks. In the Ithaca area itself, approximately 360 CNAs are employed across hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home health agencies—demonstrating consistent hiring within this smaller urban market.
CNA salary in Ithaca stands at around $42,300 per year or roughly $20.34 per hour based on BLS OEWS (May 2023) data specific to this city’s labor market. This median wage is slightly lower than the New York statewide median of $45,890 but remains consistent with compensation levels offered by regional employers seeking trained nurse aides locally.
Ithaca features several notable CMS-certified facilities: Oak Hill Rehabilitation and Nursing Care Center (60 beds) is one of the prominent long-term care providers; Kendal at Ithaca offers nonprofit residential services; Cayuga Nursing and Rehabilitation Center along with Beechtree Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing contribute additional skilled nursing capacity; Cayuga Medical Center at Ithaca serves as an acute care hospital; while VNS Ithaca Tompkins Co CHHA provides home health services—collectively forming an essential part of Ithaca’s employer network for newly certified CNAs.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Ready to get certified and start your CNA career in Ithaca? 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 Ithaca? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Corning, Horseheads, Dryden, Bath, and Waterloo, or browse the New York 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 Ithaca (4 facilities)
4 nursing homes in Ithaca providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
Facility Details
Facility Details
Facility Details
Beechtree Center For Rehabilitation And Nursing
Facility Details
Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Ithaca (1 facilities)
1 hospital in Ithaca offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
Facility Details
Home Health Agencies Hiring CNAs in Ithaca (1 facilities)
1 home health agency in Ithaca providing CNA career opportunities. Source: CMS home health agencies (July 2025)
Vns Ithaca Tompkins Co Chha
Facility Details
Requirements to Work as a CNA in Ithaca, NY
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Ithaca, you must meet the statewide CNA requirements set by New York. These include completing a New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH)–approved Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP), passing the New York Nurse Aide Competency Examination administered by Prometric, and being listed on the New York Nurse Aide Registry.
- At least 100 total hours of training (70 classroom and skills lab hours, 30 supervised clinical hours in a licensed nursing home)
- Completion of 16 hours of required instruction before any direct resident contact
- Background screening per New York requirements
- Sequential testing structure: Must first pass the skills evaluation (five randomly selected skills, 31-40 minutes), then pass the knowledge test (60 multiple-choice questions, 90 minutes, 70% minimum score)
- Up to three attempts to pass skills, then three attempts to pass knowledge after passing skills; all testing within two years of completing training
- Placement on the New York Nurse Aide Registry maintained by NYSDOH
Once certified, you can work in nursing homes, hospitals, home health agencies, and other licensed healthcare settings throughout Ithaca and across New York. CNAs must complete at least 8 hours of paid nursing work within 24 months and pay a $40 renewal fee to maintain active certification.
Already certified in another state? New York offers registry-based reciprocity for out-of-state CNAs who hold active certification in good standing and meet federal OBRA training standards. Additional documentation may be required. Learn more in our CNA License Reciprocity in New York guide.
For complete details on training programs, testing procedures, renewal requirements, and maintaining active registry status, see our comprehensive CNA License & Registration in New York 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 Ithaca
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Ithaca?
Most CNA programs in Ithaca 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 Ithaca?
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 Ithaca?
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 Ithaca?
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 Ithaca?
Yes, some schools in Ithaca 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 Ithaca there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Corning, Horseheads, Dryden, Bath, and Waterloo. You can also look at the New York state page to find more.
How do I get listed on the New York CNA registry?
To work as a CNA in New York, you must be added to the official state registry. See our New York CNA registry guide for step-by-step instructions.
Where do CNAs work in Ithaca?
CNAs in Ithaca 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.