CNA Classes & Programs in Highlands, North Carolina
1 state-approved CNA program in Highlands, including free options. 4-week and online programs are offered in other North Carolina cities.
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CNA training in Highlands
- Programs
- 1
- state-approved
- Median CNA pay
- $36,920
- $17.75 an hour
- CNA jobs
- 2,580
- in the Asheville region
- Healthcare facilities
- 2
- 1 nursing home and 1 hospital
- Population
- 1,140
- residents
Sources: BLS OEWS (May 2023), CMS (July 2025).
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What brings you here?
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In Highlands, aspiring healthcare professionals have access to 1 free CNA program that serves residents interested in joining North Carolina’s growing medical workforce. Situated within Macon County’s scenic setting near hospital resources, Highlands offers localized educational options tailored toward practical entry into patient care roles.
The single available class combines foundational coursework with preparation necessary for achieving state certification requirements—equipping students with confidence as they enter clinical environments following graduation from their Highlands-based program experience. The presence of both Eckerd Living Center—a long-term care facility—and Highlands Cashiers Hospital gives new CNAs immediate exposure to real-world practice settings without leaving town boundaries. This proximity supports valuable job connections after completing training locally.
In the Asheville region, CNAs earn around $36,920 annually according to BLS OEWS (May 2023), which is below the statewide figure of approximately $45,440. This makes Highlands a practical starting point for those interested in entering North Carolina’s healthcare workforce.
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Browse CNA Classes in Highlands
Students in Highlands can choose from one free CNA program designed specifically for North Carolina state certification preparation. The class focuses on building patient care competencies while qualifying graduates for placement on the state registry. Hands-on components support rapid skill development, with employment potential in local settings where CNAs remain consistently needed throughout Highlands’ medical community.
Program Types in Highlands
| Type | In Highlands | Where to look |
|---|---|---|
| Free or employer-paid | 1 program | Highlands-Cashiers Hospital ↓ |
| 4-week (accelerated) | Not in Highlands | See other North Carolina cities → |
| Online or hybrid | Not in Highlands | See other North Carolina cities → |
| Evening or weekend | Not in Highlands | See other North Carolina cities → |
A program can appear under more than one type. Counts come from each program's published details.
The CNA program in Highlands
Highlands-Cashiers Hospital
CostFreeHours–Weeks6
- Address
- 190 Hospital Drive, Highlands, NC 28741
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (828) 213-2692
Six-week, state-approved CNA training program where participants are hired and paid while training in classroom, simulation lab, and clinical areas. Test fees and uniforms are reimbursed for participants.
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 Highlands
Looking for more options near Highlands?
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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 Highlands
| Median annual pay | $36,920 |
|---|---|
| Median hourly pay | $17.75 |
| CNA jobs in the region | 2,580 |
| Salary region | Asheville |
Source: BLS OEWS (May 2023), median wages for nursing assistants.
Within the Asheville region, about 2,580 certified nursing assistants are employed according to recent BLS OEWS (May 2023) statistics. CNA jobs in Highlands are often pursued by graduates from the local program who enter this broader workforce after completing their studies—often finding initial roles either directly within town or at facilities across western North Carolina where staffing needs continue year-round.
The median CNA salary in Asheville stands at $36,920 per year (or $17.75 per hour), based on data from BLS OEWS (May 2023). This figure is less than North Carolina’s current statewide annual median salary of $45,440; thus, prospective CNAs should consider both local cost-of-living factors and broader economic trends when evaluating compensation expectations following graduation. The CNA salary in Highlands reflects these regional figures.
CMS data confirms two major facilities operating within Highlands: Eckerd Living Center—a long-term care facility owned by a corporation providing up to 80 beds—and Highlands Cashiers Hospital located on Hospital Drive serving critical access needs as part of Mission Health System. These institutions offer direct pathways into practical roles upon completion of local training requirements by newly licensed CNAs seeking immediate employment connections close to home.
Nursing Homes Hiring CNAs in Highlands (1 facility)
1 nursing home in Highlands providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
| Nursing home | Beds | CNA hrs/day |
|---|---|---|
| Eckerd Living Center250 Hospital Drive(828) 526-1315Map | 80 | 0.7 |
Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Highlands (1 facility)
1 hospital in Highlands offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
| Hospital | Rating |
|---|---|
| Highlands Cashiers HospitalCritical Access Hospitals · 190 Hospital Drive(828) 526-1200Map | – |
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 Highlands? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Sylva, Franklin, Murphy, Hayesville, and Marble, 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 Highlands, NC
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Highlands, 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 Highlands 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 Highlands.
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Frequently Asked Questions about CNA Classes in Highlands
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Highlands?
Most CNA programs in Highlands can be completed in 4–12 weeks, depending on whether you choose a traditional, accelerated, or weekend schedule. The shortest published length here is 6 weeks, at Highlands-Cashiers Hospital.
How much does CNA training cost in Highlands?
The CNA program in Highlands is free or employer-paid.
Are there free CNA classes in Highlands?
Yes. Highlands-Cashiers Hospital 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 Highlands?
No program in Highlands is listed with online classes. Online and hybrid programs are offered in other North Carolina cities. Clinical training is always in person.
Are there any 4-week CNA classes in Highlands?
No 4-week program is listed in Highlands. 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 Highlands there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Sylva, Franklin, Murphy, Hayesville and Marble. 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 Highlands?
CNAs in Highlands are employed in hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, and other healthcare facilities. CMS lists 1 nursing home and 1 hospital in Highlands. 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.