CNA Classes & Programs in Cookeville, Tennessee

Get Information from CNA Programs in Cookeville and Nearby

Aspiring CNAs in Cookeville can choose from 3 approved programs offering professional preparation for careers in patient care roles. Situated within central Tennessee’s healthcare network, Cookeville serves as a hub where individuals receive essential clinical instruction aimed at helping them achieve state certification as nursing assistants.

CNA classes here focus on real-world skills and job readiness while supporting candidates pursuing Tennessee certification or placement on the state registry. Notably, Cookeville also offers free CNA classes, providing greater accessibility for residents seeking entry-level positions without financial barriers. Statewide in Tennessee, CNAs earn around $34,850 annually; this regional context helps prospective students understand earning expectations after graduation.

CNA courses in Cookeville emphasize practical experience that prepares individuals for employment at hospitals or long-term care centers following successful program completion and licensure as a certified nursing assistant.

Quick Facts About Cookeville

  • Population
    34,967
    Residents
  • CNA Programs
    3
    State-approved Programs
  • Median Income
    $48,094
    Median Annual Income
  • CNA Hourly Rate
    $16.85
    Median Hourly Rate
  • CNA Yearly Salary
    $35,040
    Median Annual Salary
  • Facilities
    6
    CMS Healthcare Facilities
    3 Nursing Homes • 1 Hospital • 2 Home Health Agencies

Get Information from CNA Programs in Cookeville and Nearby

Schools in Cookeville and nearby are actively seeking qualified students. Fill out one quick form below to receive information directly from multiple accredited CNA programs.

You'll receive information about:

  • Upcoming start dates & schedules
  • Tuition costs & financial aid options
  • Class locations & formats
  • Program details & requirements

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Browse CNA Classes in Cookeville

Students in Cookeville can choose from 3 CNA programs that prepare candidates for Tennessee certification and state registry placement through classroom learning and clinical practice. With free program options available locally, these CNA classes equip candidates with patient care skills needed to qualify for jobs throughout Cookeville’s healthcare sector, supporting successful exam outcomes and job readiness upon graduation.

Types of Classes Available

Free programs: available in Cookeville through various funding sources including employer sponsorship and grants.
Accelerated programs: not available in Cookeville but are offered in other cities throughout Tennessee.
Online programs not available in Cookeville but are offered in other cities throughout Tennessee.

NHC Healthcare, Cookeville

✅ State Approved 🏫 Educational Entity ✨ Free Program 🏢 Employer Sponsored
📍 Cookeville, 815 South Walnut Ave., Tennessee 38501

Program Details

NHC HealthCare Cookeville offers a free, employer-sponsored CNA training program held onsite to prepare new hires for patient care roles. Applicants apply directly to NHC for upcoming classes.
Total Cost: Free

Signature Healthcare Of Putnam County

✅ State Approved 🏫 Educational Entity ✨ Free Program 🏢 Employer Sponsored
📍 Cookeville, 278 Dry Valley Rd., Tennessee 38506

Program Details

Signature HealthCARE of Putnam County periodically offers paid CNA classes in Cookeville, allowing trainees to earn while completing facility-based nurse aide training.
Total Cost: Free

TN College Of Applied Technology/Livingston @ Cookeville Higher

✅ State Approved 🏫 Vocational College
📍 Cookeville, 1000 Neal Street, Tennessee 38501

Program Details

TCAT Livingston offers a Nurse Aide certificate option (at the Cookeville Higher Education Campus) with classroom and clinical training for entry-level patient care.
Total Hours: 432

CNA Employment Opportunities in Cookeville

CNA Salary Information

  • Annual Salary
    $35,040
    Median Yearly Pay
  • Hourly Rate
    $16.85
    Median Per Hour
  • Available Jobs
    23,150
    CNA Positions
Data for the region: Tennessee State area

CNAs remain an important part of Cookeville’s healthcare workforce as employers seek qualified staff across long-term care facilities and hospitals serving this central Tennessee community. Demand persists locally thanks to ongoing needs at CMS-certified sites throughout Cookeville. CNA jobs in Cookeville are supported by this steady demand.

City-specific wage data is not available; therefore, statewide figures offer guidance: CNAs in Tennessee earn around $34,850 per year (or about $16.85 per hour), according to BLS OEWS (May 2023). City-specific salary data is not available, so statewide figures provide the best reference point when evaluating compensation expectations after completing a Cookeville-based program. CNA salary in Cookeville reflects these statewide trends.

A range of accredited employers offer opportunities locally—including Nhc Healthcare, Cookeville (a major employer with 104 beds), Ahc Bethesda (120 beds), Signature Healthcare of Putnam County (175 beds), and acute medical services at Cookeville Regional Medical Center (government-operated). Home health agencies like Cookeville Regional Home Health and Centerwell Home Health also play important roles by providing community-based care options where newly licensed CNAs may be hired following graduation from one of Cookeville's three approved programs.

Sources

Working in Nearby Cities

Looking beyond Cookeville? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Crossville, Livingston, Monterey, Sparta, and Carthage, 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 Cookeville (3 facilities)

3 nursing homes in Cookeville providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)

📊 Showing top 3 facilities ranked by CNA hours per resident per day (as provided by official data).

Nhc Healthcare, Cookeville

Nursing Home
📍 815 South Walnut Avenue

Facility Details

Beds: 104 CNA Hours: 2.5 per day

Ahc Bethesda

Nursing Home
📍 444 One Eleven Place

Facility Details

Beds: 120 CNA Hours: 2.1 per day

Signature Healthcare Of Putnam County

Nursing Home
📍 278 Dry Valley Rd

Facility Details

Beds: 175 CNA Hours: 2.1 per day

Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Cookeville (1 facilities)

1 hospital in Cookeville offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)

Cookeville Regional Medical Center

Hospital 🚨 Emergency Services
📍 1 Medical Center Boulevard

Facility Details

Type: Acute Care Hospitals Rating: 2/5 ⭐ Emergency: Available

Home Health Agencies Hiring CNAs in Cookeville (2 facilities)

2 home health agencies in Cookeville providing CNA career opportunities. Source: CMS home health agencies (July 2025)

📊 Showing top 2 facilities ranked by quality rating (as provided by official data).

Cookeville Regional Home Health

Home Health Agency ✅ CNA Services
📍 1101 Neal St Ste 103

Facility Details

Quality: 3.5/5 ⭐ CNA Services: Available Nursing: Available

Centerwell Home Health

Home Health Agency ✅ CNA Services
📍 225 North Willow Avenue, 3Rd Floor

Facility Details

Quality: 3.0/5 ⭐ CNA Services: Available Nursing: Available

Requirements to Work as a CNA in Cookeville, TN

To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Cookeville, 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 Cookeville 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 Cookeville

How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Cookeville?

Most CNA programs in Cookeville 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 Cookeville?

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 Cookeville?

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 Cookeville?

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 Cookeville?

Yes, some schools in Cookeville 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 Cookeville there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Crossville, Livingston, Monterey, Sparta, and Carthage. 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 Cookeville?

CNAs in Cookeville 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.