CNA Classes & Programs in Athens, Texas
2 state-approved CNA programs in Athens. Free, 4-week and online programs are offered in other Texas cities.
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CNA training in Athens
- Programs
- 2
- state-approved
- Median CNA pay
- $30,700
- $15.00 an hour
- CNA jobs
- 1,560
- in the Tyler region
- Healthcare facilities
- 7
- 3 nursing homes, 1 hospital and 3 home health agencies
- Population
- 12,878
- residents
Sources: BLS OEWS (May 2023), CMS (July 2025).
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What brings you here?
Free to use. No obligation to enroll. Compare multiple programs. We may earn a fee when you request information from schools.
Aspiring CNAs in Athens can choose from 2 state-approved programs designed to meet Texas certification requirements. Situated in East Texas, Athens gives residents access to classroom training that supports entry into the healthcare field. Whether you're new to patient care or looking for a practical career transition, these local options help start your journey toward becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant.
The city's healthcare landscape features several CMS-certified nursing homes, one hospital, and multiple home health agencies—providing both hands-on learning environments during training and job possibilities after graduation. Although there are no online or accelerated programs reported at this time, students have access to traditional classroom-based CNA classes focused on skill development and state exam preparation.
In the Tyler region, which includes Athens, CNAs earn around $30,700 per year according to BLS OEWS (May 2023). This gives prospective students clear insight into potential earnings upon entering the workforce locally.
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Browse CNA Classes in Athens
Students in Athens can choose from 2 CNA programs that prepare candidates for Texas CNA certification and entry into healthcare roles where CNAs are needed. These CNA training programs focus on equipping students with practical skills required for state registry placement while offering support throughout the certification process. Graduates are well-positioned to pursue employment opportunities across Athens’ growing healthcare sector.
Program Types in Athens
| Type | In Athens | Where to look |
|---|---|---|
| Free or employer-paid | Not in Athens | See other Texas cities → |
| 4-week (accelerated) | Not in Athens | See other Texas cities → |
| Online or hybrid | Not in Athens | See other Texas cities → |
| Evening or weekend | Not in Athens | See other Texas cities → |
A program can appear under more than one type. Counts come from each program's published details.
Both CNA programs in Athens
Lowest published cost first.
Park Highlands
Cost–Hours–Weeks–
- Address
- 711 Lucas St, Athens, TX 75751
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (903) 388-6546
Park Highlands is a state-approved CNA training provider. Contact them directly for program details and enrollment information.
Visit websiteTrinity Valley Community College
Cost–Hours–Weeks–
- Address
- 100 Cardinal Drive, Athens, TX 75751
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (903) 675-6212
TVCC offers Nurse Aide coursework (e.g., NURA 1401) teaching skills to provide basic care to residents in long-term care with emphasis on safety, communication, and patient comfort. Courses are listed within the Health Sciences pathway and may include lab and clinical experiences.
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 Texas cities
- Houston53 programs
- San Antonio25 programs
- Dallas24 programs
- Austin9 programs
- Fort Worth5 programs
- El Paso7 programs
CNA Employment Opportunities in Athens
| Median annual pay | $30,700 |
|---|---|
| Median hourly pay | $15.00 |
| CNA jobs in the region | 1,560 |
| Salary region | Tyler |
Source: BLS OEWS (May 2023), median wages for nursing assistants.
In the Tyler region, approximately 1,560 CNAs are employed across hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies. The presence of diverse healthcare providers contributes to ongoing demand for certified assistants throughout Henderson County and surrounding communities. CNA jobs in Athens are supported by this robust healthcare infrastructure.
The CNA salary in Athens reflects regional trends: In the Tyler area, CNAs earn around $30,700 annually (median), or about $14.76 per hour based on BLS OEWS (May 2023) data. While this figure is below the Texas statewide median of $35,110 per year, it represents typical compensation levels within this part of East Texas.
CNA job seekers will find several notable employers locally. Advanced Rehabilitation and Healthcare of Athens is a government-owned facility with 120 beds; South Place Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing offers another sizable setting with 112 beds; Park Highlands Nursing & Rehabilitation Center has capacity for up to 132 residents. UT Health East Texas Athens Hospital serves as a key acute care provider in town. Home health agencies like Centerwell Home Health and UT Health East Texas Home Health Services further broaden employment prospects for newly certified assistants seeking varied work environments.
Nursing Homes Hiring CNAs in Athens (3 facilities)
3 nursing homes in Athens providing CNA employment opportunities. Showing top 3 facilities ranked by CNA hours per resident per day (as provided by official data). Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
| Nursing home | Beds | CNA hrs/day |
|---|---|---|
| Advanced Rehabilitation And Healthcare Of Athens121 Commons Drive(903) 677-3434Map | 120 | 2.9 |
| South Place Rehabilitation And Skilled Nursing150 Gibson Rd(903) 677-5864Map | 112 | 2.0 |
| Park Highlands Nursing & Rehabilitation Center711 Lucas St(903) 675-8538Map | 132 | 1.5 |
Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Athens (1 facility)
1 hospital in Athens offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
| Hospital | Rating |
|---|---|
| Ut Health East Texas Athens HospitalAcute Care Hospitals · 2000 South Palestine St(903) 676-1000Map | 3/5 |
Home Health Agencies Hiring CNAs in Athens (3 facilities)
3 home health agencies in Athens providing CNA career opportunities. Showing top 3 facilities ranked by quality rating (as provided by official data). Source: CMS home health agencies (July 2025)
| Agency | Quality |
|---|---|
| Centerwell Home Health836 Southpark Circle Suite C(903) 675-5184Map | 5.0/5 |
| Ut Health East Texas Home Health Services6602 Fm 1615 Suite 100(903) 675-8882Map | 4.5/5 |
| Pathfinder Home Health311 S Palestine Street(281) 364-9161Map | 2.5/5 |
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 Athens? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Mabank, Wills Point, Grand Saline, Fairfield, and Van, or browse the Texas 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 Athens, TX
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Athens, you must meet the statewide CNA requirements set by Texas. These include completing an HHSC-approved Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP), passing the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam, and being listed on the Texas Nurse Aide Registry.
- At least 100 total hours of training (60 classroom and 40 clinical hours in a licensed nursing facility)
- Completion of 16 hours of required instruction before any direct resident contact
- Passing both parts of the NNAAP exam within 24 months of completing training (up to three attempts per section)
- Background check per Texas Health & Safety Code §250.006
- Placement on the Texas Nurse Aide Registry (maintained by HHSC)
Once certified, you can work in nursing homes, hospitals, home health agencies, and long-term care facilities throughout Athens and the surrounding area.
Already certified in another state? You may qualify for reciprocity through TULIP (Texas Unified Licensure Information Portal) to transfer your certification without retraining. Learn more in our CNA License Reciprocity in Texas guide.
For full details on testing, certification, renewal requirements, and maintaining active status, see our step-by-step CNA License & Registration in Texas 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 Athens.
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Frequently Asked Questions about CNA Classes in Athens
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Athens?
Most CNA programs in Athens 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 Athens?
Prices differ by school, so ask the CNA programs in Athens directly for their current costs. Some schools and healthcare employers may cover the cost or reimburse you after hiring.
Are there free CNA classes in Athens?
No program in Athens is listed as free. Free CNA classes are offered in other Texas cities. 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 Athens?
No program in Athens is listed with online classes. Online and hybrid programs are offered in other Texas cities. Clinical training is always in person.
Are there any 4-week CNA classes in Athens?
No 4-week program is listed in Athens. 4-week CNA programs are offered in other Texas cities, usually in 3 to 5 weeks.
Which nearby cities are there for CNA classes and job opportunities?
Near Athens there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Mabank, Wills Point, Grand Saline, Fairfield and Van. You can also look at the Texas state page to find more.
How do I get listed on the Texas CNA registry?
To work as a CNA in Texas, you must be added to the official state registry. See our Texas CNA registry guide for step-by-step instructions.
Where do CNAs work in Athens?
CNAs in Athens are employed in hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, and other healthcare facilities. CMS lists 3 nursing homes, 1 hospital and 3 home health agencies in Athens. 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.