CNA Classes & Programs in Dayton, Tennessee
Get Information from CNA Programs in Dayton and Nearby
Dayton is home to 2 CNA programs that support those seeking entry into Tennessee's healthcare sector. This small city offers opportunities for aspiring nursing assistants to start their journey toward certification and employment in a supportive local setting. For those interested in reducing training costs, Dayton includes free CNA classes as part of its available options.
Students enrolled in CNA programs here benefit from training that prepares them for the demands of healthcare workplaces. With both a hospital and nursing homes located within the city, graduates have direct exposure to real-world care environments during their studies. In the Chattanooga region, CNAs earn around $33,190 per year, which reflects salaries typical for this area and provides context for those planning their careers.
These CNA classes focus on practical skills and exam readiness, helping students work toward state certification and future employment with local medical facilities. Dayton’s accessible program choices offer a pathway into healthcare for new entrants.
Quick Facts About Dayton
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Population7,139Residents
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CNA Programs2State-approved Programs
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Median Income$54,511Median Annual Income
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CNA Hourly Rate$15.96Median Hourly Rate
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CNA Yearly Salary$33,190Median Annual Salary
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Facilities3CMS Healthcare Facilities2 Nursing Homes • 1 Hospital
Get Information from CNA Programs in Dayton and Nearby
Schools in Dayton 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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Browse CNA Classes in Dayton
Dayton offers 2 CNA programs designed to prepare students for Tennessee CNA certification and to build practical skills needed in local healthcare settings. These programs include a free CNA class, helping reduce barriers for new entrants. Graduates are eligible for state registry placement, with career opportunities available in healthcare facilities throughout the region.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: available in Dayton through various funding sources including employer sponsorship and grants.
Accelerated programs: not available in Dayton but are offered in other cities throughout Tennessee.
Online programs not available in Dayton but are offered in other cities throughout Tennessee.
Life Care Center Of Rhea County
Program Details
Laurelbrook Academy
Program Details
CNA Employment Opportunities in Dayton
CNA Salary Information
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Annual Salary$33,190Median Yearly Pay
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Hourly Rate$15.96Median Per Hour
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Available Jobs1,870CNA Positions
CNA jobs in Dayton are part of a steady employment landscape, with approximately 1,870 certified nursing assistants working in the Chattanooga region according to recent data. This reflects ongoing demand for CNAs in hospitals, long-term care centers, and related healthcare environments throughout the broader metro area.
CNA salary in Dayton aligns with regional figures since city-specific data is not separately reported. In the Chattanooga area, CNAs earn around $33,190 annually (or about $15.96 per hour), according to BLS OEWS (May 2023). This is slightly below the Tennessee median of $34,850 per year and reflects local economic conditions and cost of living.
The city’s healthcare sector features several CMS-certified facilities offering employment options for CNAs. Notable employers include Laurelbrook Nursing Home (50 beds), Life Care Center of Rhea County (89 beds), and Rhea Medical Center, which serves as Dayton’s primary hospital. These organizations play an important role in supporting both patient care needs and local job prospects for certified nursing assistants.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Working in Nearby Cities
Looking beyond Dayton? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Englewood, Benton, Spencer, Chattanooga, and Cleveland, 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 Dayton (2 facilities)
2 nursing homes in Dayton providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
Facility Details
Facility Details
Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Dayton (1 facilities)
1 hospital in Dayton offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
Facility Details
Requirements to Work as a CNA in Dayton, TN
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Dayton, 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 Dayton 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 Dayton
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Dayton?
Most CNA programs in Dayton 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 Dayton?
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 Dayton?
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 Dayton?
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 Dayton?
Yes, some schools in Dayton 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 Dayton there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Englewood, Benton, Spencer, Chattanooga, and Cleveland. 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 Dayton?
CNAs in Dayton 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.