CNA Classes & Programs in Columbia, Tennessee
Get Information from CNA Programs in Columbia and Nearby
Columbia is home to 4 CNA programs offering educational opportunities aligned with state requirements for aspiring certified nursing assistants in southern Middle Tennessee. Students here can access structured learning experiences that prepare them both academically and practically for rewarding careers providing direct patient care across various settings.
The city features several CMS-certified nursing homes along with three hospitals—including Maury Regional Hospital—and multiple home health agencies serving Columbia residents’ diverse needs. In the Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin region—which includes Columbia—CNAs earn around $37,150 annually according to BLS OEWS (May 2023), surpassing the statewide median salary by more than $2,000 each year.
Columbia currently offers two free CNA classes among its four total programs—giving prospective students affordable routes into state-approved training designed to launch successful careers as certified nursing assistants in Tennessee.
Quick Facts About Columbia
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Population42,474Residents
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CNA Programs4State-approved Programs
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Median Income$58,110Median Annual Income
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CNA Hourly Rate$17.86Median Hourly Rate
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CNA Yearly Salary$37,150Median Annual Salary
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Facilities10CMS Healthcare Facilities4 Nursing Homes • 3 Hospitals • 3 Home Health Agencies
Get Information from CNA Programs in Columbia and Nearby
Schools in Columbia 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 Columbia
Available in Columbia are 4 CNA classes—including two free programs—that equip students with practical knowledge required for successful completion of state registry placement or Tennessee certification exams. Each training program prepares graduates not only academically but also professionally so they may pursue career opportunities where qualified CNAs remain vital contributors within Columbia’s healthcare sector.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: available in Columbia through various funding sources including employer sponsorship and grants.
Accelerated programs: not available in Columbia but are offered in other cities throughout Tennessee.
Online programs not available in Columbia but are offered in other cities throughout Tennessee.
NHC Healthcare, Columbia
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NHC-Maury Regional Transitional Care Center
Program Details
Life Care Center Of Columbia
Program Details
Magnolia Healthcare & Rehabilitation Center
Program Details
CNA Employment Opportunities in Columbia
CNA Salary Information
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Annual Salary$37,150Median Yearly Pay
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Hourly Rate$17.86Median Per Hour
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Available Jobs6,280CNA Positions
In the Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin region—which encompasses Columbia—approximately 6,280 certified nursing assistants work throughout hospitals, rehabilitation centers, long-term care homes, psychiatric facilities, and community-based organizations serving patients' daily needs across southern Middle Tennessee cities like Columbia itself.
The CNA salary in Columbia is consistent with metro-area rates: In this region—including Columbia—CNAs earn around $37,150 per year or $17.86 hourly based on BLS OEWS (May 2023) statistics; this places earnings above Tennessee’s overall median wage level ($34,850). Variations may occur depending on setting or experience but generally reflect sustained demand throughout area employers seeking skilled personnel capable of meeting high standards within direct care environments.
CNA job seekers will find opportunities at major CMS-certified locations such as Magnolia Healthcare And Rehabilitation Center (181 beds), Life Care Center Of Columbia (123 beds), NHC-Maury Regional Transitional Care Center (112 beds), NHC Healthcare Columbia (106 beds), Maury Regional Hospital—a government-owned acute-care facility—and respected home health providers like NHC Homecare Of Columbia (quality rating: 4.5). These organizations consistently employ both newly credentialed professionals and experienced staff members alike throughout Columbia's growing medical sector.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Working in Nearby Cities
Looking beyond Columbia? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Lawrenceburg, Pulaski, Hohenwald, Centerville, and Summertown, or browse the Tennessee 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 Columbia (4 facilities)
4 nursing homes in Columbia providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
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Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Columbia (3 facilities)
3 hospitals in Columbia offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
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Unity Psychiatric Care-Columbia
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Home Health Agencies Hiring CNAs in Columbia (3 facilities)
3 home health agencies in Columbia providing CNA career opportunities. Source: CMS home health agencies (July 2025)
Nhc Homecare Of Columbia
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Maury Regional Home Services
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Quality First Home Care
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Requirements to Work as a CNA in Columbia, TN
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Columbia, you must meet the statewide CNA requirements set by Tennessee. These include completing a Tennessee Department of Health–approved Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP), passing the state competency evaluation administered by D&SDT–HEADMASTER, and being listed on the Tennessee Nurse Aide Registry.
- At least 75 total hours of training (classroom, lab, and clinical combined)
- Completion of 16 hours of required instruction before any direct resident contact
- Passing both the knowledge and skills exams within 24 months of completing training (up to three attempts per section)
- Criminal background check required before patient contact
- Placement on the Tennessee Nurse Aide Registry maintained by the Tennessee Department of Health
Once certified, you can work in hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living centers, and home health agencies throughout Columbia and across Tennessee.
Already certified in another state? You may qualify for reciprocity to transfer your certification into Tennessee without retraining or retesting. Learn more in our CNA License Reciprocity in Tennessee guide.
For full details on training, testing, certification renewal, and maintaining an active listing, see our step-by-step CNA License & Registration in Tennessee 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 Columbia
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Columbia?
Most CNA programs in Columbia 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 Columbia?
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 Columbia?
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 Columbia?
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 Columbia?
Yes, some schools in Columbia 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 Columbia there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Lawrenceburg, Pulaski, Hohenwald, Centerville, and Summertown. You can also look at the Tennessee state page to find more.
How do I get listed on the Tennessee CNA registry?
To work as a CNA in Tennessee, you must be added to the official state registry. See our Tennessee CNA registry guide for step-by-step instructions.
Where do CNAs work in Columbia?
CNAs in Columbia 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.