CNA Classes & Programs in Wakefield, Rhode Island
2 state-approved CNA programs in Wakefield, including free options. 4-week and online programs are offered in other Rhode Island cities.
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CNA training in Wakefield
- Programs
- 2
- state-approved
- Median CNA pay
- $41,600
- $20.00 an hour
- CNA jobs
- 9,350
- in the Providence-Warwick region
- Healthcare facilities
- 2
- 1 hospital and 1 home health agency
- Population
- 9,302
- residents
Sources: BLS OEWS (May 2023), CMS (July 2025).
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What brings you here?
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Wakefield is home to 2 CNA programs that give aspiring nursing assistants multiple routes into Rhode Island's healthcare sector. Located within this vibrant community are options tailored toward preparing students both academically and practically so they are ready for immediate entry into patient care roles upon graduation.
The city’s two available programs offer traditional classroom instruction along with hands-on training experiences essential for passing state exams. Prospective students can also take advantage of free CNA classes, making Wakefield an accessible choice regardless of financial background. These programs provide strong job readiness preparation aligned with employer standards.
The median CNA salary within the Providence-Warwick metro area is around $41,600 per year according to BLS OEWS (May 2023), reflecting compensation levels attainable by new graduates from Wakefield’s programs entering nearby workplaces.
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Browse CNA Classes in Wakefield
Wakefield offers 2 CNA programs that prepare students for Rhode Island certification and registry placement through classroom learning and practical instruction. One option features free CNA training designed to qualify graduates quickly while meeting increasing regional demand for skilled CNAs who support patient care needs across Wakefield’s diverse healthcare settings.
Program Types in Wakefield
| Type | In Wakefield | Where to look |
|---|---|---|
| Free or employer-paid | 1 program | South County Hospital ↓ |
| 4-week (accelerated) | Not in Wakefield | See other Rhode Island cities → |
| Online or hybrid | Not in Wakefield | See other Rhode Island cities → |
| Evening or weekend | Not in Wakefield | See other Rhode Island cities → |
A program can appear under more than one type. Counts come from each program's published details.
Both CNA programs in Wakefield
Lowest published cost first.
South County Hospital
CostFreeHours–Weeks8
- Address
- 100 Kenyon Ave, Wakefield, RI 02879
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (401) 788-8724
South County Health offers a free, 8-week in-house CNA training with full-time, day-shift instruction and a stipend; graduates are guaranteed a full-time Patient Care Tech position upon licensure.
Visit websiteElderwood of Scallop Shell at Wakefield
Cost–Hours–Weeks–
- Address
- 55 Scallop Shell Way, Wakefield, RI 02879
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (401) 789-3006
Listed as a CNA training provider on the RI Caring Careers portal; contact the facility for current training schedules and requirements.
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.
Not sure which of the 2 programs fits you?
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Explore CNA Programs in Other Cities
Nearby cities
Major Rhode Island cities
- Providence11 programs
- Cranston7 programs
- Warwick9 programs
- Pawtucket1 program
- East Providence2 programs
- Woonsocket4 programs
CNA Employment Opportunities in Wakefield
| Median annual pay | $41,600 |
|---|---|
| Median hourly pay | $20.00 |
| CNA jobs in the region | 9,350 |
| Salary region | Providence-Warwick |
Source: BLS OEWS (May 2023), median wages for nursing assistants.
In the Providence-Warwick region, approximately 9,350 CNAs contribute vital services across hospitals and home health agencies. Consistent hiring supports both recent graduates from local programs as well as experienced aides seeking career growth throughout Wakefield’s dynamic medical environment.
CNA salary in Wakefield aligns with regional norms: In the Providence-Warwick metro area, CNAs earn a median of $41,600 annually or about $20 per hour based on BLS OEWS (May 2023) data. The statewide median is the same, at $41,600 each year; understanding these figures can help candidates plan their career paths effectively when considering opportunities locally versus elsewhere within Rhode Island.
Diverse work settings exist thanks to CMS-certified employers such as South County Hospital—a voluntary non-profit acute care hospital—and South County Home Health agency, which offers both skilled nursing services and home health aide support. Both provide meaningful job prospects within Wakefield according to CMS data from July 2025.
Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Wakefield (1 facility)
1 hospital in Wakefield offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
| Hospital | Rating |
|---|---|
| South County Hospital IncAcute Care Hospitals · 100 Kenyon Ave(401) 782-8000Map | 4/5 |
Home Health Agencies Hiring CNAs in Wakefield (1 facility)
1 home health agency in Wakefield providing CNA career opportunities. Source: CMS home health agencies (July 2025)
| Agency | Quality |
|---|---|
| South County Home HealthOne High Street(401) 782-0500Map | 4.5/5 |
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 Wakefield? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Westerly, Middletown, East Greenwich, Warren, and Tiverton, or browse the Rhode Island 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 Wakefield, RI
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Wakefield, you must meet the statewide CNA requirements set by Rhode Island. These include completing a Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH)-approved Nursing Assistant Training Program, passing the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) examination administered by Credentia, and obtaining a Rhode Island Nursing Assistant License from RIDOH.
- At least 120 total hours of training (80 classroom hours and 40 supervised practical clinical hours)
- Completion of 16 hours of classroom instruction before any direct patient contact
- An original BCI background check from the Rhode Island Attorney General's Office, dated within four months of the application
- Passing the NNAAP exam: a written knowledge test (70 multiple-choice questions, with an oral version of 60 questions plus 10 reading-comprehension questions available) and a skills evaluation (five assigned skills)
- Up to three attempts to pass, with all testing completed within one year of starting training
- A Rhode Island Nursing Assistant License issued by RIDOH (Rhode Island licenses nursing assistants rather than using registry placement alone)
Once licensed, you may work in nursing homes, hospitals, assisted living residences, home care agencies, and other healthcare settings throughout Wakefield and across Rhode Island. The license must be renewed every two years (expiring June 30), and to renew you must document at least 8 hours of qualifying nursing assistant employment during the preceding 24 months and 12 hours of in-service training annually. Rhode Island charges a $35 initial application fee.
Already certified in another state? Rhode Island offers licensure by endorsement for nursing assistants who hold a current, active certification or license in good standing in another state. Approved applicants are licensed in Rhode Island without repeating the full 120-hour training program or retaking the NNAAP exam, provided they meet the state's training-based or employment-based endorsement criteria. Learn more in our CNA License Reciprocity in Rhode Island guide.
For complete details on training, testing, licensing, and renewal, see our full CNA License & Registration in Rhode Island 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 Wakefield.
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Frequently Asked Questions about CNA Classes in Wakefield
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Wakefield?
Most CNA programs in Wakefield can be completed in 4–12 weeks, depending on whether you choose a traditional, accelerated, or weekend schedule. The shortest published length here is 8 weeks, at South County Hospital.
How much does CNA training cost in Wakefield?
Prices differ by school, so ask the CNA programs in Wakefield directly for their current costs. One program is free or employer-paid. Some schools and healthcare employers may cover the cost or reimburse you after hiring.
Are there free CNA classes in Wakefield?
Yes. South County 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 Wakefield?
No program in Wakefield is listed with online classes. Online and hybrid programs are offered in other Rhode Island cities. Clinical training is always in person.
Are there any 4-week CNA classes in Wakefield?
No 4-week program is listed in Wakefield. 4-week CNA programs are offered in other Rhode Island cities, usually in 3 to 5 weeks.
Which nearby cities are there for CNA classes and job opportunities?
Near Wakefield there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Westerly, Middletown, East Greenwich, Warren and Tiverton. You can also look at the Rhode Island state page to find more.
How do I get listed on the Rhode Island CNA registry?
To work as a CNA in Rhode Island, you must be added to the official state registry. See our Rhode Island CNA registry guide for step-by-step instructions.
Where do CNAs work in Wakefield?
CNAs in Wakefield are employed in hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, and other healthcare facilities. CMS lists 1 hospital and 1 home health agency in Wakefield. 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.