CNA Classes & Programs in Columbus, Ohio
Get Information from CNA Programs in Columbus and Nearby
Columbus is home to 19 CNA programs, offering a wide array of training options for those interested in a healthcare career. As Ohio's capital and largest city, Columbus serves as a regional center for education and employment in the medical field. Aspiring nursing assistants can find both traditional classroom instruction and options that fit different schedules and learning preferences.
In addition to standard CNA classes, Columbus features 3 online programs and 7 accelerated training opportunities for students seeking flexibility or a quicker path to certification. Graduates of these CNA training programs are well-positioned to pursue roles at local hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home health agencies. The city’s substantial network of healthcare employers ensures ongoing demand for skilled nursing assistants throughout the area.
In Columbus, CNAs earn around $38,680 annually, according to recent data for the region. With a range of CNA courses available—including online and accelerated options—individuals can find the right program to prepare for state certification and enter this growing field.
Quick Facts About Columbus
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Population902,449Residents
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CNA Programs19State-approved Programs
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Median Income$62,994Median Annual Income
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CNA Hourly Rate$18.59Median Hourly Rate
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CNA Yearly Salary$38,680Median Annual Salary
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Facilities297CMS Healthcare Facilities31 Nursing Homes • 11 Hospitals • 255 Home Health Agencies
Get Information from CNA Programs in Columbus and Nearby
Schools in Columbus 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 Columbus
Students in Columbus can choose from 19 CNA programs, including online classes and accelerated 4-week programs that prepare candidates for Ohio CNA certification. These programs equip students with practical skills and help them qualify for state registry placement. With local demand for CNAs, graduates are well-prepared for employment in healthcare settings where certified nursing assistants play an essential role.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: not available in Columbus, but free classes are available in other cities throughout Ohio.
Accelerated programs: available in Columbus and are usually 4-week programs, sometimes 3 or 5 weeks.
Online programs: Some classes in Columbus offer online coursework combined with local clinical training.
Vip Medical Academy
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Regenesis Plus
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Premier Choice Health Services
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Quality Care Academy & Staffing
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Nuturepath Health Care Services
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Ncus Tec, Columbus
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Jag Healthcare Scioto
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Keltel Mindful Health Services
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Horizon Science Academy Columbus
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Healthcare Professionals Institute
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Heart Medical Training
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Fort Hayes Metro Ed Ctr/Cols
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Columbus State Community College
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D&S Military Medic
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Buckeye Health Agency
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Beyond Healthcare And Education
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Allure Health Services
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Alia Healthcare
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Alia Healthcare Services
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CNA Employment Opportunities in Columbus
CNA Salary Information
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Annual Salary$38,680Median Yearly Pay
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Hourly Rate$18.59Median Per Hour
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Available Jobs10,290CNA Positions
In the Columbus region, approximately 10,290 CNAs are employed across a variety of healthcare settings. This strong workforce presence reflects steady demand in hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and home health agencies throughout the area. Many graduates of local CNA training programs transition directly into entry-level positions supporting patient care teams, highlighting the range of CNA jobs in Columbus.
The CNA salary in Columbus is guided by recent regional data: In the Columbus area, CNAs earn around $38,680 annually (approximately $18.59 per hour), according to BLS OEWS (May 2023). This figure sits slightly above the statewide median salary for Ohio CNAs, which is $38,030 per year. These earnings reflect both consistent employment opportunities and competitive wages for certified nurse aides in central Ohio.
The city’s broad spectrum of healthcare employers includes notable CMS-certified facilities such as Worthington Christian Village (41 beds), Mohun Health Care Center (72 beds), and Ohio Living Westminster-Thurber (35 beds). Major hospitals like Doctors Hospital and Riverside Methodist Hospital offer acute care services and recruit CNAs as part of multidisciplinary teams. Home health agencies such as Scarlet Home Health Care also provide career paths for nursing assistants seeking work outside traditional inpatient settings.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Working in Nearby Cities
Looking beyond Columbus? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Grove City, Whitehall, Springfield, Newark, and Delaware, or browse the Ohio 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 Columbus (31 facilities)
31 nursing homes in Columbus providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
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Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Columbus (11 facilities)
11 hospitals in Columbus offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
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Riverside Methodist Hospital
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Ohio State University State Health System
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Home Health Agencies Hiring CNAs in Columbus (255 facilities)
255 home health agencies in Columbus providing CNA career opportunities. Source: CMS home health agencies (July 2025)
Scarlet Home Health Care
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Heartland Home Health
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Mount Carmel Home Care
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National Church Residences Home And Community Serv
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Requirements to Work as a CNA in Columbus, OH
To work as a State Tested Nurse Aide (STNA) in Columbus, Ohio's designation for Certified Nursing Assistants, you must meet the statewide STNA requirements set by Ohio. These include completing an Ohio Department of Health (ODH)–approved Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP), passing the competency exam administered by D&SDT-Headmaster, and being listed on the Ohio Nurse Aide Registry.
- At least 75 total hours of training combining classroom instruction and supervised clinical practice in a licensed long-term care facility
- Completion of the first 16 hours of classroom instruction before any direct resident contact
- Passing both the knowledge test (79 questions, 90 minutes, 70% to pass) and the skills evaluation (5 tasks, 35 minutes, 80% on each task)
- Up to three attempts per exam section within two years of training completion before retraining is required
- Criminal background check per Ohio Administrative Code (OAC) Chapter 3701-13
- Placement on the Ohio Nurse Aide Registry after passing both exam components
Once certified, you may work in nursing homes, hospitals, home health agencies, assisted living facilities, and rehabilitation centers throughout Columbus and across Ohio. Ohio facilities may employ nurse aide trainees for up to four months while completing training and testing requirements.
Already certified in another state? Ohio offers reciprocity for out-of-state CNAs who are active and in good standing. Applicants do not need to retake the exam if their home state's training met federal OBRA requirements. Learn more in our CNA License Reciprocity in Ohio guide.
For complete details on training, testing, renewal, and maintaining certification, see our full CNA License & Registration in Ohio 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 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?
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 Columbus?
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?
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 Columbus?
Yes, some schools in Columbus 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 Columbus there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Grove City, Whitehall, Springfield, Newark, and Delaware. You can also look at the Ohio state page to find more.
How do I get listed on the Ohio CNA registry?
To work as a CNA in Ohio, you must be added to the official state registry. See our Ohio 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. 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.