CNA Classes & Programs in Rochester, New York
Get Information from CNA Programs in Rochester and Nearby
Aspiring CNAs in Rochester can choose from nine approved training programs tailored to help them launch careers in patient care roles across Monroe County’s medical community. Rochester’s reputation as a center of education supports those seeking both skill-building and certification through local offerings.
The city features free CNA classes, online study options, and even one accelerated program—allowing students flexibility based on their schedules or need to enter the workforce quickly. Program formats combine classroom instruction with practical experiences designed to meet requirements for state licensure as a Certified Nursing Assistant.
In the Rochester area, CNAs earn around $38,900 annually according to regional data—slightly below statewide levels but aligned with other upstate regions. Completion of Rochester’s CNA courses opens doors across local healthcare facilities seeking qualified staff.
Quick Facts About Rochester
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Population210,992Residents
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CNA Programs9State-approved Programs
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Median Income$44,156Median Annual Income
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CNA Hourly Rate$18.70Median Hourly Rate
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CNA Yearly Salary$38,900Median Annual Salary
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Facilities32CMS Healthcare Facilities23 Nursing Homes • 6 Hospitals • 3 Home Health Agencies
Get Information from CNA Programs in Rochester and Nearby
Schools in Rochester 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
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- Program details & requirements
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Browse CNA Classes in Rochester
Rochester’s 9 CNA programs prepare students for state registry placement through practical skills development and coursework tailored toward passing exams required by New York State certification standards. Program choices include online CNA classes and free training options, making it easier to begin a career as a CNA in Rochester’s healthcare settings.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: available in Rochester through various funding sources including employer sponsorship and grants.
Accelerated programs: available in Rochester and are usually 4-week programs, sometimes 3 or 5 weeks.
Online programs: Some classes in Rochester offer online coursework combined with local clinical training.
Woodside Manor Nursing Home
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Unity Living Center
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The Highlands at Brighton
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Rochester Education Opportunity Center
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Monroe Community Hospital
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Jewish Home of Rochester
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Isabella Graham Hart School of Practical Nursing
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Edna Tina Wilson Living Center
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Bold Vision Career of Rochester
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CNA Employment Opportunities in Rochester
CNA Salary Information
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Annual Salary$38,900Median Yearly Pay
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Hourly Rate$18.70Median Per Hour
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Available Jobs4,730CNA Positions
In Rochester and its surrounding region, approximately 4,730 certified nursing assistants are employed according to recent data sets—a reflection of ongoing demand within this midsize city’s diverse healthcare landscape. Employment opportunities exist across acute hospitals as well as extended-care facilities serving Monroe County residents.
The CNA salary in Rochester is defined by regional benchmarks: In the Rochester metro area, CNAs earn around $38,900 per year or about $18.70 per hour based on BLS OEWS (May 2023) data. While this median is below the statewide median of $45,890 for New York State, it remains consistent with other upstate metropolitan markets.
CNA jobs in Rochester are available at numerous CMS-certified facilities, including The Highlands At Brighton, Jewish Home Of Rochester, St Anns Community, Strong Memorial Hospital, Highland Hospital, Unity Hospital, and home health agencies such as Rochester Regional Health Home Care and HCR Home Care CHHA. These employers provide a range of work environments suited to various interests within patient support services.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Ready to get certified and start your CNA career in Rochester? 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 Rochester? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Penfield, Buffalo, Syracuse, Cheektowaga, and Niagara Falls, 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 Rochester (23 facilities)
23 nursing homes in Rochester providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
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Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Rochester (6 facilities)
6 hospitals in Rochester offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
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Home Health Agencies Hiring CNAs in Rochester (3 facilities)
3 home health agencies in Rochester providing CNA career opportunities. Source: CMS home health agencies (July 2025)
Rochester Regional Health Home Care
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Hcr / Hcr Home Care Chha (Rochester)
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Rochester Regional Health System Home Care- Closed
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Requirements to Work as a CNA in Rochester, NY
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Rochester, 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 Rochester 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 Rochester
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Rochester?
Most CNA programs in Rochester 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 Rochester?
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 Rochester?
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 Rochester?
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 Rochester?
Yes, some schools in Rochester 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 Rochester there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Penfield, Buffalo, Syracuse, Cheektowaga, and Niagara Falls. 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 Rochester?
CNAs in Rochester 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.