CNA Classes & Programs in Harrisonburg, Virginia
Get Information from CNA Programs in Harrisonburg and Nearby
Aspiring CNAs in Harrisonburg can choose from 4 approved programs designed to launch careers in patient care roles throughout this Shenandoah Valley city. Known as a college-town setting thanks to James Madison University’s presence, Harrisonburg offers accessible training options close to both downtown amenities and regional employers.
CNA programs in Harrisonburg prepare participants for Virginia certification while emphasizing practical skills essential in today’s healthcare environment. Students gain clinical experience that supports success on licensing exams and readies them for local job openings after graduation. In Harrisonburg, CNAs earn around $36,110 annually—a figure just below the statewide benchmark—with actual pay influenced by workplace setting and experience level.
The city does feature free CNA classes among its offerings but does not currently provide online or accelerated course formats. Harrisonburg’s CNA courses help ensure a steady supply of qualified caregivers ready to meet area healthcare needs.
Quick Facts About Harrisonburg
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Population51,784Residents
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CNA Programs4State-approved Programs
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Median Income$56,050Median Annual Income
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CNA Hourly Rate$17.36Median Hourly Rate
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CNA Yearly Salary$36,110Median Annual Salary
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Facilities8CMS Healthcare Facilities4 Nursing Homes • 1 Hospital • 3 Home Health Agencies
Get Information from CNA Programs in Harrisonburg and Nearby
Schools in Harrisonburg 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 Harrisonburg
Students in Harrisonburg can choose from 4 CNA programs—including options featuring free training—to prepare for Virginia state certification and registry placement. Each program trains participants with patient-focused skills needed by employers throughout Harrisonburg, where career opportunities exist across varied healthcare roles requiring certified nursing assistants.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: available in Harrisonburg through various funding sources including employer sponsorship and grants.
Accelerated programs: not available in Harrisonburg but are offered in other cities throughout Virginia.
Online programs not available in Harrisonburg but are offered in other cities throughout Virginia.
Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community
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Massanutten Technical Center
Program Details
Harrisonburg City Public Schools - VMRC Nurse Aide Education Collaboration
Sunnyside Presbyterian Retirement Community
Program Details
CNA Employment Opportunities in Harrisonburg
CNA Salary Information
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Annual Salary$36,110Median Yearly Pay
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Hourly Rate$17.36Median Per Hour
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Available Jobs560CNA Positions
In Harrisonburg itself, approximately 560 certified nursing assistants are employed within local hospitals, long-term care centers, and home health agencies according to recent data sources. This steady workforce supports patient care needs across both public institutions and private organizations serving residents throughout this university town.
The CNA salary in Harrisonburg is around $36,110 per year (or $17.36 hourly), based on BLS OEWS (May 2023) data specific to this city’s labor market. While slightly below Virginia’s median annual wage of $36,820 for CNAs statewide, actual earnings may vary by employer type or professional experience gained over time.
CNA job opportunities span several CMS-certified facilities such as Vmrc Complete Living Care—a nonprofit corporation with 120 beds—as well as Sunnyside Presbyterian Retirement Community (nonprofit), Blue Ridge Rehabilitation and Nursing (for profit), and Harrisonburg Hlth & Rehab Cntr (a federal government-owned facility). Sentara RMH Medical Center serves as a major hospital employer locally while notable home health agencies include First Choice Home Health Services LLC and Sentara Home Care Services—providing additional options outside traditional institutional environments.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Working in Nearby Cities
Looking beyond Harrisonburg? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Charlottesville, Fishersville, Bridgewater, Orange, and Luray, or browse the Virginia 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 Harrisonburg (4 facilities)
4 nursing homes in Harrisonburg providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
Facility Details
Sunnyside Presbyterian Retirement Community
Facility Details
Blue Ridge Rehabilitation And Nursing
Facility Details
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Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Harrisonburg (1 facilities)
1 hospital in Harrisonburg offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
Sentara Rmh Medical Center
Facility Details
Home Health Agencies Hiring CNAs in Harrisonburg (3 facilities)
3 home health agencies in Harrisonburg providing CNA career opportunities. Source: CMS home health agencies (July 2025)
First Choice Home Health Services, Llc
Facility Details
Sentara Home Care Services
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Continuing Care Home Health Services
Facility Details
Requirements to Work as a CNA in Harrisonburg, VA
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Harrisonburg, you must meet the statewide CNA requirements set by Virginia. These include completing a Virginia Board of Nursing–approved Nurse Aide Education Program, passing both parts of the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam administered by Credentia, and being listed on the Virginia Nurse Aide Registry.
- At least 120 total hours of training (80 classroom + 40 clinical hours)
- At least 24 hours of classroom 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 per Code of Virginia § 32.1-162.9:1
- Placement on the Virginia Nurse Aide Registry maintained by the Virginia Board of Nursing
Once certified, you can work in hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and home health agencies throughout Harrisonburg and across Virginia.
Already certified in another state? You may qualify for reciprocity (endorsement) to transfer your certification into Virginia without retraining. Learn more in our CNA License Reciprocity in Virginia guide.
For full details on training, testing, certification renewal, and maintaining an active listing, see our step-by-step CNA License & Registration in Virginia 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 Harrisonburg
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Harrisonburg?
Most CNA programs in Harrisonburg 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 Harrisonburg?
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 Harrisonburg?
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 Harrisonburg?
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 Harrisonburg?
Yes, some schools in Harrisonburg 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 Harrisonburg there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Charlottesville, Fishersville, Bridgewater, Orange, and Luray. You can also look at the Virginia state page to find more.
How do I get listed on the Virginia CNA registry?
To work as a CNA in Virginia, you must be added to the official state registry. See our Virginia CNA registry guide for step-by-step instructions.
Where do CNAs work in Harrisonburg?
CNAs in Harrisonburg 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.