Online CNA Classes in Massachusetts: Top Schools in MA
No matter how serious the condition, a patient’s quality of life matters. That’s where CNAs help the most. Demand for CNAs in Massachusetts continues to grow, making it a strong entry point into healthcare. If you’re ready to start your career, this guide explains how to become a CNA, how long training takes, where to find online and hybrid classes, what you’ll pay, and what salary you can expect once certified.
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Inside Online CNA Classes in Massachusetts
In healthcare, some training must happen in person. With CNA programs, coursework may be online, but labs and clinicals require hands-on attendance. Some schools offer asynchronous online learning for maximum flexibility, while others use live, synchronous sessions to create real-time interaction with faculty and classmates.
As you compare programs, think about:
- Your learning style – do you prefer live sessions or self-paced work?
- Clinic location – where will the in-person portion take place?
- Scheduling needs – evenings, weekends, or full-time study?
- Transportation – can you travel to labs and clinical rotations?
These logistics matter as much as curriculum when choosing the right program for you.
MassBay Community College
MassBay Community College offers a CNA Certification in Greater Boston that lets you complete most education online. This 120-hour certificate program combines traditional coursework delivered through WebEx, with on-campus labs and clinical rotations at a long-term care facility in Greater Boston. Remote classes are synchronous, encouraging participation and instructor interaction.
Enrollment is offered three times per year, and financial aid is available. The program is approved by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) and prepares you to sit for the Red Cross Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation.
To earn your certificate, you must attend 100% of class and clinical sessions, demonstrate 100% skills lab competency, and pass all tests and quizzes with a 75% or higher.
Duration: 8 weeks
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $1,300
Admissions Requirements:
- Age 18
- High school diploma or GED
- Criminal background check
- Reliable transportation
- CPR certification
- Purchase of required materials (textbook, uniform, patch, name tag)
Curriculum:
- Routine care for diverse populations
- Basic skills, including checking vital signs
- Roles and responsibilities of a nursing assistant
- Understanding the elderly
- Food service
- Safety
- Personal care
FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:
Northern Essex Community College
The Certified Nurse Assistant/Certified Nurse Aide Training Program at Northern Essex Community College delivers theory classes online, while labs and clinical training take place in person. Approved by the Massachusetts DPH, it prepares you to take the Massachusetts Nurse Aide Certification Exam.
Like many CNA programs, you’ll complete your clinical experience in a long-term care facility under licensed supervision. The program includes required Zoom meetings, plus mandatory skills lab training.
After completing the program, you’ll be prepared for work in nursing care facilities, hospitals, retirement communities, assisted living centers, or home healthcare.
Duration: 4 weeks
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $1,400
Admissions Requirements:
- Immunization records
- Physical exam
- Background check
- Photo ID
- Interview with program coordinator
- Intermediate English reading and writing skills
Curriculum:
- Communication
- Safety and infection control
- Personal care skills
- Vital signs
- Dementia care
- Documentation
- Legal and regulatory healthcare practices
Quincy College
Quincy College offers a noncredit CNA program — rather than a certificate program — that qualifies you to take the Massachusetts Nurse Aide Certification Exam. The curriculum is designed for flexibility with online learning throughout the program and daytime, evening, or weekend classes. Skills labs are completed in person, along with clinical training at a skilled nursing facility.
After finishing the program, Quincy College offers job placement assistance, helping graduates connect with local employers. Multiple start dates are offered each year.
Duration: 4 to 6 weeks
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $1,950
Admissions Requirements:
- High school diploma, GED, or equivalent
- Physical exam
- Negative TB test or chest x-ray
- Criminal background check
- Immunization record
- Commitment to participating in the full program
Curriculum:
- Basic care skills and techniques
- Caring for diverse populations
- Working in various healthcare settings
Answering Common Questions from CNA Students in Massachusetts
Below are straightforward answers to common questions about CNA programs, timelines, costs, and requirements in Massachusetts.
Are there any four-week CNA classes in Massachusetts?
Yes, several programs in Massachusetts can be completed in four weeks.
Northern Essex Community College runs an accelerated, four-week program. Quincy College lists a four- to six-week timeframe. MassBay Community College’s program takes eight weeks, which is still a quick path to a new career. Don’t rule out slightly longer programs if they have other benefits, like strong job placement support or a convenient location.
Once training is complete, you’ll need to take the CNA exam to become certified.
Expert Insight
Other factors like classroom environment (even online), the teaching style, exam prep, and support during clinicals all contribute to make the time either a rewarding experience or a never-ending chore. To get a better feel for what a program is really like, try looking for online reviews from former students and see what the majority of them have to say.
Are there any free Massachusetts CNA training programs?
Yes, some students qualify for free CNA training through state-funded programs. The Workforce Competitiveness Trust Fund offers training in high-demand fields, which can include CNA programs for eligible individuals. It has trained more than 6,000 people and began with $50 million in available funding.
If you don’t qualify for free training, many CNA programs are still affordable, with most tuition costs under $1,500. Always ask whether the program offers financial aid or other assistance.
Can I take the CNA test without classes in Massachusetts?
In most cases, you need approved CNA training before taking the exam. Formal CNA training is required for most candidates. However, there are limited exceptions:
- You may qualify if you have work experience in a nursing home
- You may qualify if you’re already a trained CNA in another state
To verify eligibility, contact the Massachusetts Department of Public Health or ask the facility where you hope to work.
Expert Insight
If you’re certified in another state, you can transfer your license to Massachusetts through reciprocity, meaning they will issue you an in-state license without requiring you to retake the exam.
How much does the CNA test cost in Massachusetts?
The full CNA exam in Massachusetts typically costs $150. Fees are generally:
- $100 for the written and skills exam
- $50 for the oral exam
Tests can be scheduled and paid for separately. The exam is available in English, Spanish, Chinese, and Haitian Creole. Results typically take three weeks, and you can take the knowledge test up to four times and the clinical test up to three times.
Testing is administered through D&S Diversified Technologies LLP/Headmaster LLP.
What do I need to do to maintain my CNA license?
CNA licenses in Massachusetts must be renewed every two years.
You can check your license status through the Massachusetts Health Professions License Verification Site. Renewal is done online using the Massachusetts DPH Licensing Renewal System, which guides you through steps such as uploading your photo, updating background check details, and paying the renewal fee.
Unlike other healthcare roles, CNA renewal in Massachusetts doesn’t require continuing education credits.
Salary & Career Outlooks for CNAs in Massachusetts
| Area | 10th Percentile | Median | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. | $31,390 | $39,530 | $50,140 |
| Massachusetts | $38,380 | $45,410 | $56,340 |
| Amherst Town-Northampton, MA | $36,900 | $43,630 | $48,020 |
| Barnstable Town, MA | $37,740 | $45,600 | $62,020 |
| Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH | $39,080 | $46,110 | $57,520 |
| Pittsfield, MA | $37,350 | $44,800 | $49,460 |
| Springfield, MA | $37,240 | $41,220 | $49,210 |
| Worcester, MA | $37,490 | $44,080 | $51,630 |
Source: Nursing Assistants, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2024, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area | Curr. Jobs | Proj. Jobs | New Jobs | Growth % | Avg. Ann. Openings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 1,361,300 | 1,417,800 | 56,500 | 4.20% | 202,400 |
| Massachusetts | 12,640 | 13,640 | 1,000 | 7.90% | 1,960 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
