CNA Classes & Programs in Charleston, South Carolina
Get Information from CNA Programs in Charleston and Nearby
Charleston is home to 1 CNA program, offering aspiring certified nursing assistants a pathway into the healthcare field. This coastal South Carolina city provides access to state-approved CNA training, which prepares students for vital roles supporting patients and clinical teams. In the Charleston-North Charleston metro area, CNAs play an important part in hospitals, nursing homes, and home health settings.
Prospective students in Charleston will find CNA classes that emphasize practical skill-building and readiness for South Carolina certification. The city’s healthcare environment includes 8 CMS-certified nursing homes, 6 hospitals, and 4 home health agencies, offering a diverse range of employment settings after graduation. In the Charleston-North Charleston region, CNAs earn around $38,340 annually—above the statewide figure of around $35,090—providing a strong incentive for those considering this career path.
While there are currently no free or online CNA programs available in Charleston, the local training option delivers focused preparation for individuals seeking to enter this rewarding healthcare profession.
Quick Facts About Charleston
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Population149,960Residents
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CNA Programs1State-approved Programs
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Median Income$83,891Median Annual Income
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CNA Hourly Rate$18.44Median Hourly Rate
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CNA Yearly Salary$38,340Median Annual Salary
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Facilities18CMS Healthcare Facilities8 Nursing Homes • 6 Hospitals • 4 Home Health Agencies
Get Information from CNA Programs in Charleston and Nearby
Schools in Charleston 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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- Tuition costs & financial aid options
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- Program details & requirements
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Browse CNA Classes in Charleston
Students in Charleston can choose from 1 CNA program that prepares graduates for South Carolina CNA certification. This training equips students with essential patient care skills and helps them qualify for placement on the state registry. With local demand for CNAs across a variety of healthcare employers, completing a CNA class here supports entry into meaningful patient care careers.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: not available in Charleston, but free classes are available in other cities throughout South Carolina.
Accelerated programs: not available in Charleston but are offered in other cities throughout South Carolina.
Online programs not available in Charleston but are offered in other cities throughout South Carolina.
NHC Healthcare Charleston
Program Details
CNA Employment Opportunities in Charleston
CNA Salary Information
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Annual Salary$38,340Median Yearly Pay
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Hourly Rate$18.44Median Per Hour
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Available Jobs2,440CNA Positions
In the Charleston-North Charleston region, approximately 2,440 CNAs are employed according to recent data. Demand for certified nursing assistants remains steady throughout the metropolitan area as facilities seek qualified staff to deliver essential daily care and support patient well-being. CNA jobs in Charleston span hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies.
The CNA salary in Charleston reflects regional trends. In the Charleston-North Charleston area, CNAs earn around $38,340 per year (or about $18.44 per hour), according to BLS OEWS (May 2023). This median wage is above the statewide South Carolina figure of $35,090 annually. Regional differences may reflect local cost of living and facility needs; job seekers can use these figures to gauge earning potential in comparison to other markets within South Carolina.
Charleston’s healthcare sector offers varied employment opportunities for CNAs across multiple facility types. Notable employers include Bishop Gadsden Episcopal Health Care Center—a non-profit facility with 41 beds—and Ashley River Healthcare, a for-profit center with 125 beds serving many residents. Hospitals such as MUSC Medical Center and Bon Secours-St Francis Xavier Hospital are also significant sites where CNAs may be employed. Home health agencies like Amedisys Home Health Of Charleston East further expand options for those interested in providing care in patients’ homes. Facility data is based on CMS-certified providers as of July 2025.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Working in Nearby Cities
Looking beyond Charleston? Explore CNA programs and jobs in North Charleston, Mount Pleasant, Summerville, Goose Creek, and Hanahan, or browse the South 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.
Nursing Homes Hiring CNAs in Charleston (8 facilities)
8 nursing homes in Charleston providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
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Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Charleston (6 facilities)
6 hospitals in Charleston offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
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Bon Secours-St Francis Xavier Hospital
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Home Health Agencies Hiring CNAs in Charleston (4 facilities)
4 home health agencies in Charleston providing CNA career opportunities. Source: CMS home health agencies (July 2025)
Amedisys Home Health Of Charleston East
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Musc Health At Home, By Bayada- Charleston
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Roper-St. Francis Home Health
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Requirements to Work as a CNA in Charleston, SC
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Charleston, you must meet the statewide CNA requirements set by South Carolina. These include completing a SCDHHS-approved Nurse Aide Training Program, passing the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam administered by Credentia, and being listed on the South Carolina Nurse Aide Registry.
- At least 100 total hours of training (60 hours classroom and lab + 40 hours supervised clinical practice)
- Completion of 16 hours of required instruction before any direct resident contact
- Passing both parts of the NNAAP exam (written/oral knowledge test and skills evaluation)
- Placement on the South Carolina Nurse Aide Registry managed by Credentia (CNA365)
Once certified, you can apply for CNA positions at nursing homes, hospitals, and home health agencies throughout Charleston and surrounding areas.
Already certified in another state? You may qualify for reciprocity to transfer your certification into South Carolina without retraining. Learn more in our CNA License Reciprocity in South Carolina guide.
For full details on testing, certification, renewal, and maintaining an active listing, see our step-by-step CNA License & Registration in South 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
Frequently Asked Questions about CNA Classes in Charleston
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Charleston?
Most CNA programs in Charleston 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 Charleston?
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 Charleston?
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 Charleston?
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 Charleston?
Yes, some schools in Charleston 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 Charleston there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as North Charleston, Mount Pleasant, Summerville, Goose Creek, and Hanahan. You can also look at the South Carolina state page to find more.
How do I get listed on the South Carolina CNA registry?
To work as a CNA in South Carolina, you must be added to the official state registry. See our South Carolina CNA registry guide for step-by-step instructions.
Where do CNAs work in Charleston?
CNAs in Charleston 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.