CNA Classes & Programs in Olympia, Washington
Get Information from CNA Programs in Olympia and Nearby
Olympia is home to 5 CNA programs that serve those seeking entry into nursing assistant careers within Washington's capital region. The city's educational offerings cater to residents interested in obtaining credentials recognized throughout the Olympia-Tumwater area.
CNA courses here include standard options as well as an accelerated program designed for faster completion by motivated students. Training focuses on practical competencies necessary for state certification—enabling graduates to provide quality care upon entering the workforce at local hospitals or skilled nursing facilities.
CNA salaries in Olympia-Tumwater average around $45,050 per year based on recent data—providing insight into typical earnings for new professionals entering Olympia’s healthcare sector after finishing their training programs.
Quick Facts About Olympia
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Population55,151Residents
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CNA Programs5State-approved Programs
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Median Income$73,851Median Annual Income
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CNA Hourly Rate$21.66Median Hourly Rate
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CNA Yearly Salary$45,050Median Annual Salary
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Facilities6CMS Healthcare Facilities4 Nursing Homes • 2 Hospitals
Get Information from CNA Programs in Olympia and Nearby
Schools in Olympia 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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- Upcoming start dates & schedules
- Tuition costs & financial aid options
- Class locations & formats
- Program details & requirements
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Browse CNA Classes in Olympia
Olympia offers 5 CNA programs that prepare aspiring nursing assistants through targeted training leading to Washington certification and registry placement. With both standard and accelerated program formats available—including one accelerated option—students can select pathways that fit their schedules while gaining essential patient care experience. These CNA classes support career readiness with skill-building focused on meeting regional healthcare demand where certified assistants are valued contributors.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: not available in Olympia, but free classes are available in other cities throughout Washington.
Accelerated programs: available in Olympia and are usually 4-week programs, sometimes 3 or 5 weeks.
Online programs not available in Olympia but are offered in other cities throughout Washington.
South Puget Sound Community College
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Puget Skilled Nursing
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Woodard Creek NAC Program
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Pennant at Olympia Transitional Healthcare
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ProCare Academy of Washington - Olympia
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CNA Employment Opportunities in Olympia
CNA Salary Information
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Annual Salary$45,050Median Yearly Pay
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Hourly Rate$21.66Median Per Hour
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Available Jobs1,010CNA Positions
The Olympia-Tumwater region employs about 1,010 certified nursing assistants across its hospitals and long-term care centers, reflecting steady demand within Thurston County’s healthcare sector. Those completing a CNA training program in Olympia will find opportunities not only within city limits but also throughout surrounding communities served by major medical providers.
The CNA salary in Olympia is based on regional data: In the Olympia-Tumwater area, CNAs earn approximately $45,050 per year or $21.66 per hour according to BLS OEWS (May 2023). This is slightly below the Washington statewide median salary of $46,000 but still represents solid earning potential given local cost-of-living factors and consistent job availability across care settings.
CNA graduates may seek employment at CMS-certified sites such as Capital Medical Center—a voluntary non-profit private hospital known for its emergency services—and Providence St Peter Hospital with its birthing-friendly designation and broad inpatient offerings. Skilled nursing facilities like Puget Sound Care (108 beds), Regency Olympia Rehabilitation and Nursing Center (28 beds), Olympia Transitional Care and Rehabilitation (113 beds), and Woodard Creek Health & Rehabilitation (152 beds) further expand job possibilities for newly credentialed assistants entering Olympia’s healthcare field.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Working in Nearby Cities
Looking beyond Olympia? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Tumwater, Puyallup, Des Moines, SeaTac, and Tukwila, or browse the Washington 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 Olympia (4 facilities)
4 nursing homes in Olympia providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
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Regency Olympia Rehabilitation And Nursing Center
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Olympia Transitional Care And Rehabilitation
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Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Olympia (2 facilities)
2 hospitals in Olympia offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
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Requirements to Work as a CNA in Olympia, WA
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Olympia—designated as Nursing Assistant–Certified (NAC) in Washington—you must meet the statewide requirements set by Washington. These include completing a Washington State Department of Health–approved Nursing Assistant Training Program, passing the state-approved competency examination, and obtaining NAC credentialing from the Department of Health.
- At least 108 total hours of training (35 hours theory, 33 hours skills lab, and 40 hours supervised clinical experience)
- Passing both the knowledge test (70 questions administered by Credentia) and the skills evaluation (five randomly selected skills)
- Up to four total attempts to pass the competency examination before retraining is required
- Background check meeting Washington state requirements prior to clinical placement or employment
- NAC credential issuance by the Department of Health after passing both exam components
- Annual renewal required on or before your birthday
Once credentialed, you may work in nursing homes, hospitals, assisted living facilities, home health agencies, and other licensed healthcare settings throughout Olympia and across Washington. Healthcare facilities may employ nursing assistant trainees for a limited period while training and testing requirements are completed, in accordance with state and federal rules.
Already certified in another state? Washington offers credentialing by endorsement for out-of-state nursing assistants who are active and in good standing. Applicants must provide verification that their training met federal OBRA requirements and satisfy Washington's background screening requirements. Learn more in our CNA License Reciprocity in Washington guide.
For complete details on training, testing, renewal, and maintaining your NAC credential, see our full CNA License & Registration in Washington 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 Olympia
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Olympia?
Most CNA programs in Olympia 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 Olympia?
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 Olympia?
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 Olympia?
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 Olympia?
Yes, some schools in Olympia 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 Olympia there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Tumwater, Puyallup, Des Moines, SeaTac, and Tukwila. You can also look at the Washington state page to find more.
How do I get listed on the Washington CNA registry?
To work as a CNA in Washington, you must be added to the official state registry. See our Washington CNA registry guide for step-by-step instructions.
Where do CNAs work in Olympia?
CNAs in Olympia 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.