CNA Classes & Programs in Syracuse, New York
Get Information from CNA Programs in Syracuse and Nearby
Syracuse is home to 2 CNA programs, offering aspiring nursing assistants a pathway to enter the healthcare workforce in this central New York city. These state-approved CNA classes include a variety of learning options designed to accommodate different schedules and learning preferences. For those seeking affordable pathways, free CNA classes are available for eligible students, helping to reduce barriers to certification.
Local CNA training programs in Syracuse prepare students for state certification, practical skill development, and job readiness. Graduates can find employment in settings such as nursing homes, hospitals, and home health agencies. The city features a mix of facility types, providing a range of clinical experiences that support new CNAs as they transition into the workplace.
In the Syracuse area, CNAs earn around $37,530 annually. With online and accelerated programs also offered, prospective students have flexible options to begin their CNA careers quickly in this region.
Quick Facts About Syracuse
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Population146,134Residents
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CNA Programs2State-approved Programs
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Median Income$43,584Median Annual Income
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CNA Hourly Rate$18.04Median Hourly Rate
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CNA Yearly Salary$37,530Median Annual Salary
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Facilities13CMS Healthcare Facilities7 Nursing Homes • 5 Hospitals • 1 Home Health Agencies
Get Information from CNA Programs in Syracuse and Nearby
Schools in Syracuse 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 Syracuse
Syracuse provides 2 CNA training programs that prepare students for New York state certification and entry into local healthcare careers. Options include free CNA training and accelerated classes for those seeking a quicker route to certification. Each program builds practical skills and prepares graduates for state registry placement, supporting career opportunities in healthcare facilities where CNAs are needed.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: available in Syracuse through various funding sources including employer sponsorship and grants.
Accelerated programs: available in Syracuse and are usually 4-week programs, sometimes 3 or 5 weeks.
Online programs: Some classes in Syracuse offer online coursework combined with local clinical training.
Onondaga Community College
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Loretto Health and Rehabilitation Center
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CNA Employment Opportunities in Syracuse
CNA Salary Information
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Annual Salary$37,530Median Yearly Pay
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Hourly Rate$18.04Median Per Hour
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Available Jobs2,950CNA Positions
In the Syracuse region, approximately 2,950 CNAs are employed across various healthcare settings. The demand for certified nursing assistants remains steady as local hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies require trained staff to support patient care throughout the metropolitan area.
The CNA salary in Syracuse reflects regional data: In the Syracuse area, CNAs earn around $37,530 per year or $18.04 per hour according to BLS OEWS (May 2023). This median wage is below the statewide median of $45,890 for New York CNAs but aligns with local cost-of-living factors and employment opportunities.
Healthcare employers in Syracuse span multiple facility types. Notable examples include Bishop Rehabilitation and Nursing Center (440 beds), Loretto Health and Rehabilitation Center (583 beds), Crouse Hospital (a voluntary nonprofit acute care hospital), St Joseph's Hospital Health Center, University Hospital SUNY Health Science Center, Hutchings Psychiatric Center, and Nascentia Health at Home—a CMS-certified home health agency with high-quality ratings. These organizations represent some of the major local employers hiring CNAs in the area.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Ready to get certified and start your CNA career in Syracuse? 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 Syracuse? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Utica, Binghamton, Rochester, Penfield, and Albany, 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 Syracuse (7 facilities)
7 nursing homes in Syracuse providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
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Central Park Rehabilitation And Nursing Center
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Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Syracuse (5 facilities)
5 hospitals in Syracuse offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
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St Joseph'S Hospital Health Center
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University Hospital S U N Y Health Science Center
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Home Health Agencies Hiring CNAs in Syracuse (1 facilities)
1 home health agency in Syracuse providing CNA career opportunities. Source: CMS home health agencies (July 2025)
Nascentia Health At Home
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Requirements to Work as a CNA in Syracuse, NY
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Syracuse, 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 Syracuse 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 Syracuse
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Syracuse?
Most CNA programs in Syracuse 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 Syracuse?
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 Syracuse?
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 Syracuse?
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 Syracuse?
Yes, some schools in Syracuse 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 Syracuse there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Utica, Binghamton, Rochester, Penfield, and Albany. 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 Syracuse?
CNAs in Syracuse 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.