CNA Classes & Programs in Columbus, North Carolina
1 state-approved CNA program in Columbus, including online, evening and weekend options. Free and 4-week programs are offered in other North Carolina cities.
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CNA training in Columbus
- Programs
- 1
- state-approved
- Median CNA pay
- $36,010
- $17.31 an hour
- CNA jobs
- 56,390
- across North Carolina
- Healthcare facilities
- 2
- 1 nursing home and 1 hospital
- Population
- 1,087
- residents
Sources: BLS OEWS (May 2023), CMS (July 2025).
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What brings you here?
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Columbus is home to 1 CNA program, providing those in this North Carolina town with a direct pathway to enter the healthcare field. With its small community setting, Columbus offers an accessible environment for aspiring nursing assistants to start their journey toward state certification and employment in patient care roles.
Local residents can take advantage of online CNA classes, making it easier to balance training with other commitments. In addition to educational opportunities, Columbus features both a CMS-certified nursing home and a hospital, helping support practical experience and potential job placement once training is complete. These local facilities contribute to the area’s healthcare workforce and offer valuable hands-on opportunities.
Statewide in North Carolina, CNAs earn around $45,440 annually according to BLS OEWS (May 2023). This figure is based on available statewide data and serves as a general benchmark for those entering the field from Columbus.
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Browse CNA Classes in Columbus
Students in Columbus can choose from 1 CNA class that prepares them for North Carolina state certification. This CNA training program includes online learning options, equipping graduates with essential skills for entry into patient care roles. The curriculum supports state registry placement and helps students pursue jobs in healthcare settings where CNAs are consistently needed.
Program Types in Columbus
| Type | In Columbus | Where to look |
|---|---|---|
| Free or employer-paid | Not in Columbus | See other North Carolina cities → |
| 4-week (accelerated) | Not in Columbus | See other North Carolina cities → |
| Online or hybrid | 1 program | Isothermal Community College - Polk Campus ↓ |
| Evening or weekend | 1 program | Isothermal Community College - Polk Campus ↓ |
A program can appear under more than one type. Counts come from each program's published details.
The CNA program in Columbus
Isothermal Community College - Polk Campus
Cost$185Hours188Weeks–
- Address
- 1255 West Mills Street, Columbus, NC 28722
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (828) 395-1675
- Schedule
- Evening and weekend classes
Isothermal’s 188-hour Nurse Aide I blends classroom, lab, and clinical training, with hybrid cohorts offered at the Polk Campus. Graduates gain the skills to provide safe, basic patient care.
Visit websiteCost, hours and weeks are each school's published figures, so confirm them with the school. A dash means the school has not published it.
CNA Programs Near Columbus
Looking for more options near Columbus?
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Explore CNA Programs in Other Cities
Major North Carolina cities
- Charlotte11 programs
- Raleigh13 programs
- Greensboro5 programs
- Durham8 programs
- Winston-Salem8 programs
- Fayetteville4 programs
CNA Employment Opportunities in Columbus
| Median annual pay | $36,010 |
|---|---|
| Median hourly pay | $17.31 |
| CNA jobs across North Carolina | 56,390 |
| Salary region | North Carolina (statewide) |
Source: BLS OEWS (May 2023), median wages for nursing assistants.
CNA jobs in Columbus are influenced by the ongoing needs within local healthcare settings. While city-specific employment figures are not available due to the small population size, individuals who complete CNA training can expect opportunities at nearby facilities as well as within the broader region.
City-specific salary data is not available, so statewide figures provide the best reference for prospective CNAs. Statewide in North Carolina, CNAs earn around $45,440 per year, or approximately $21.85 per hour, according to BLS OEWS (May 2023). These figures represent typical earnings across the state and can be used as a benchmark for those entering the profession from Columbus.
Healthcare employers in Columbus include Willowbrooke Court Sc Ctr at Tryon Estates, a nonprofit nursing facility with 16 beds and an average of 9 residents, offering both skilled nursing care and employment opportunities for certified assistants. St Lukes Hospital is also present as a critical access hospital serving local medical needs. Both facilities are CMS-certified and play important roles in supporting healthcare delivery and CNA job prospects within this small North Carolina town.
Nursing Homes Hiring CNAs in Columbus (1 facility)
1 nursing home in Columbus providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
| Nursing home | Beds | CNA hrs/day |
|---|---|---|
| Willowbrooke Court Sc Ctr At Tryon Estates619 Laurel Lake Drive(828) 894-3000Map | 16 | 0.8 |
Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Columbus (1 facility)
1 hospital in Columbus offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
| Hospital | Rating |
|---|---|
| St Lukes HospitalCritical Access Hospitals · 101 Hospital Drive(828) 894-3311Map | – |
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Working in Nearby Cities and Other States
Working in Nearby Cities
Looking beyond Columbus? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Rutherfordton, Arden, Asheville, Hendersonville, and Marion, or browse the North Carolina 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 Columbus, NC
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Columbus, you must meet the statewide CNA requirements set by North Carolina. These include completing a state-approved Nurse Aide I training program, passing the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam, and being listed on the North Carolina Nurse Aide I Registry.
- At least 75 hours of training (many programs exceed this minimum), including at least 16 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Passing both parts of the NNAAP exam (written/oral and skills evaluation)
- Meeting physical ability requirements to perform CNA duties (employers may require health screenings and background checks)
- Placement on the North Carolina Nurse Aide I Registry
Once certified, you can apply for CNA jobs at hospitals, long-term care centers, and home health agencies throughout Columbus and the surrounding area.
Already certified in another state? You may qualify for reciprocity to transfer your license into North Carolina without retraining. Learn more in our CNA License Reciprocity in North Carolina guide.
For full details on testing, certification, renewal, and maintaining an active license, see our step-by-step CNA License & Registration in North Carolina 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
Ready to start? Get info from CNA schools in Columbus.
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Frequently Asked Questions about CNA Classes in Columbus
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Columbus?
Most CNA programs in Columbus 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 Columbus?
Isothermal Community College - Polk Campus lists a price of $185. Some schools and healthcare employers may cover the cost or reimburse you after hiring.
Are there free CNA classes in Columbus?
No program in Columbus is listed as free. Free CNA classes are offered in other North Carolina cities. 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 Columbus?
Yes. Isothermal Community College - Polk Campus offers a hybrid option, with online coursework and in-person clinical training at local healthcare facilities.
Are there any 4-week CNA classes in Columbus?
No 4-week program is listed in Columbus. 4-week CNA programs are offered in other North Carolina cities, usually in 3 to 5 weeks.
Which nearby cities are there for CNA classes and job opportunities?
Near Columbus there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Rutherfordton, Arden, Asheville, Hendersonville and Marion. You can also look at the North Carolina state page to find more.
How do I get listed on the North Carolina CNA registry?
To work as a CNA in North Carolina, you must be added to the official state registry. See our North Carolina CNA registry guide for step-by-step instructions.
Where do CNAs work in Columbus?
CNAs in Columbus are employed in hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, and other healthcare facilities. CMS lists 1 nursing home and 1 hospital in Columbus. 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.