Online CNA Classes in North Carolina: Top Schools & More
Looking for an in-demand healthcare career without spending years in school? If so, CNA classes in North Carolina might be a great choice for you. In this guide, we show you what to expect from online CNA classes, highlight some quality programs in North Carolina, answer common CNA student questions, and highlight salary and career opportunities.
The following professionals lent their expertise to this article:
HealthcareHealthcare Admin.Nursing EditorialSenior CareDementia CareWhy Trust EduMed? We partner with 150+ nursing & allied health professionals to bring you the most in-depth data & insights on higher education & careers in healthcare. Meet our team and review our editorial values.
Jump To Section
Reviewing Online CNA Classes in North Carolina
Many schools in North Carolina offer certified nursing assistant programs with online components. The online portion is the academic coursework, and the hands-on training comes in the form of clinicals.
As you search for an online CNA class or program in North Carolina, make sure you ask what amount of coursework can be completed online vs. in-person. You may also want to consider which mode of online learning you prefer; while asynchronous classes can be completed at your own pace and at any time, synchronous online courses take place on a specific day and time. Let’s see how three of the state’s top CNA programs work.
Nurse Aide I (Continuing Education) – Durham Technical Community College
The Nurse Aide I course at Durham Technical Community College is an affordable course that prepares students to sit for the North Carolina Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation. A successful score on this exam allows students to be listed in the Nurse Aide registry, which many employers require.
Lectures are held online, and skills labs are conducted on campus. Students must also complete a hands-on clinical experience, which is held at healthcare facilities in Durham and Orange counties. Durham Technical also offers a specialized training program for hospital-based nurse aides.
Duration: 139 hours
Mode: Hybrid – online courses and in-person labs and clinicals
Cost: $272
Admissions Requirements:
- Must be at least age 16 and a half
- Present proof of high school graduation or equivalent
- Provide an up-to-date immunization record and health insurance coverage
- Complete a criminal background check
Curriculum:
- Mental, social, and physical needs of the elderly
- Patients’ Rights
- Nutrition Management
- Elimination Procedures
- Safe Environment
- Restorative Services
- Human Body Structure and Function
- Related/Common Diseases and Disorders
- Communication and Documentation
- Death and Dying
FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:
Nurse Aide I – Wake Technical Community College
The Nurse Aide I program at Wake Technical Community College is recognized by the North Carolina Division of Health Service Regulation and is a rigorous program that prepares students to care for patients, especially the elderly. The training includes online lectures and in-person clinicals with a focus on basic nursing skills as well as communication and collaboration with the entire healthcare team.
The program’s curriculum covers topics such as fulfilling patient’s physical, mental, and social needs, death and dying, and basics of the human body. Students must pass a skills/competency evaluation in order to graduate. Successful graduates are eligible to apply for registry listing as a Nurse Aide I.
Duration: 168 hours
Mode: Hybrid – online courses and in-person clinicals
Cost: $250; however, extensive financial assistance is available for CNA students
Admissions Requirements:
- Must be at least age 16 and a half
- Provide an up-to-date immunization record and health insurance coverage
- Complete a criminal background check and drug test
Curriculum:
- Person-centered care
- Aging process
- Communication
- Safety/emergencies
- Infection prevention
- Legal and ethical issues
- Measurements
- Elimination
- Nutrition
- Basic restorative care and rehabilitation
- Dementia
- Mental health
- End-of-life care
Nurse Aide Program (CNA) – Carolinas College of Health Sciences
The Certified Nurse Aid program at Carolinas College of Health Sciences is a flexible and affordable option that can be completed in just 2-3 months. The online components are offered in an asynchronous format, and there are weekday, weekend, and evening options available for the in-person skills labs and clinicals.
The program features affordable tuition and scholarships are available for high school graduates from the Charlotte, NC, area. The school is a public, non-profit college associated with the healthcare network, Atrium Health, and because of the association there are often ample professional opportunities for graduates.
Duration: 120 hours of learning (weekday courses) / 136 hours of learning (weekend courses)
Mode: Hybrid – online courses combined with in-person labs and clinicals
Cost: $1,200
Admissions Requirements:
- Submit an online application
- Provide high school or equivalent transcripts
- Pass a criminal background check
Curriculum:
- Transportation
- Mobility for Disabled Patients
- Bathing/Grooming
- Feeding
- Identification of Common Diseases
- Infection Control
- Communication
Frequently Asked Questions from CNA Students
It’s normal to have questions as you consider investing your time and money in an online CNA program in North Carolina. Below, we’ve sourced some common questions that potential students have and answered them in detail. Keep reading to learn more about what to expect as a CNA student.
What skills do you learn from CNA classes in North Carolina?
Certificates, diplomas, and training courses for nurse aides cover a wide range of patient care topics. The academic and clinical training involved in state-approved CNA classes will give you the chance to learn everything you need to know to pass the state certification exam and officially become a CNA. You’ll study how to take patient vital signs and operate the essential equipment that CNAs use on a daily basis.
You’ll also acquire the specialized knowledge to handle patients who suffer from common health problems like cognitive impairment, diabetes, and respiratory issues. The nurse aide 1 course at Bladen Community College, for example, provides training in special care procedures, death, and care for elderly patients.
How much do CNA classes cost in North Carolina?
The cost of CNA programs or courses will vary between institutions. You’ll find that most for-credit programs, where you’ll earn a certificate and diploma, will charge tuition by the credit or course. Those institutions that offer non-credit training programs typically require learners to make a one-time payment upfront.
In general, you can expect to pay somewhere between $200 to $1,200, depending on what type of training the program offers and what’s covered. As you weigh costs, be sure to note what is and isn’t included, such as: uniforms, equipment, books, and criminal background checks.
Where can I get help paying for my CNA classes in North Carolina?
It can be daunting to think about tuition payments, course fees, and the cost of supplies for school. Thankfully, there are a handful of financial aid options out there to help you offset the cost of your CNA classes in North Carolina.
Between for-credit and non-credit CNA programs, those learners in for-credit programs are more likely to receive financial aid in the form of grants or scholarships. Private scholarships from professional organizations can be an excellent source of funding for both for-credit and non-credit CNA-seekers.
Your school itself may offer internal funding opportunities or payment plans which can make your education more affordable, so be sure to check with them directly. Be sure to research scholarships for CNA classes before enrolling to give you a clear idea of what you could pay.
How long do CNA classes in North Carolina take to complete?
The duration of your CNA classes in North Carolina will also vary among institutions. If you’re planning on pursuing a nurse aid certificate or diploma, you can expect to spend several months, or about three semesters, in school.
Durham Technical Community College, for example, offers a stellar diploma program that takes a few months to complete. Alternatively, there are non-credit training programs in North Carolina such as Serenity Nurse Aide Academy, that can prepare you to sit for the state certification exam in as few as four to six weeks. Be sure to review requirements for in-personal clinical rotations, as they can affect the length of the program.
Will taking CNA classes online in North Carolina impact my ability to get certified or licensed? And do employers care if courses are taken online?
For both of these questions, the answer is no. Taking online CNA classes in North Carolina will not affect your ability to sit for the certification exam, provided the program is approved by the state. If you attend a program that’s not state-approved, you may encounter eligibility issues. And when it comes to employment, most employers today understand the value of online learners and do not discriminate against those learners who complete classes remotely. Oftentimes, your diploma, certification, or confirmation of training documents won’t even indicate that you took classes remotely, anyway.
Career Growth and Salary Predictions for CNAs in North Carolina
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. | $31,390 | $39,530 | $50,140 |
| North Carolina | $29,370 | $37,670 | $45,960 |
| Asheville, NC | $30,410 | $38,740 | $47,740 |
| Burlington, NC | $29,650 | $40,580 | $46,920 |
| Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, NC-SC | $30,900 | $38,580 | $46,620 |
| Durham-Chapel Hill, NC | $35,120 | $38,710 | $47,510 |
| Fayetteville, NC | $28,100 | $36,150 | $43,990 |
| Goldsboro, NC | $29,270 | $36,550 | $43,430 |
| Greensboro-High Point, NC | $29,530 | $38,760 | $44,580 |
| Greenville, NC | $29,670 | $38,340 | $41,820 |
| Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton, NC | $30,290 | $36,050 | $43,810 |
| Jacksonville, NC | $27,690 | $33,330 | $37,420 |
| Pinehurst-Southern Pines, NC | $28,450 | $35,920 | $41,180 |
| Raleigh-Cary, NC | $30,030 | $38,840 | $48,840 |
| Rocky Mount, NC | $27,350 | $35,580 | $41,660 |
| Wilmington, NC | $29,960 | $36,410 | $46,070 |
| Winston-Salem, NC | $30,230 | $37,900 | $43,690 |
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 |
| North Carolina | 55,650 | 62,060 | 6,410 | 11.50% | 8,970 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Best Schools for Online CNA Classes in North Carolina
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,652 Avg. Aid Amount
- 49% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Johnston Community College
- Johnston Community College’s Nurse Aide I program is recognized as a Best Practices Program by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, reflecting its model excellence, innovative education, and exceptionally high state certification pass rates.
- The program offers a Nurse Aide Pathway diploma, providing foundational training that supports progression into advanced health science programs like Associate Degree Nursing and sonography, enhancing career advancement opportunities.
- Students benefit from expert faculty dedicated to student success and program excellence, evidenced by full accreditation with no deficiencies and invitations for program staff to present and collaborate statewide.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,652 Avg. Aid Amount
- 49% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Wake Technical Community College
Raleigh, NCProgram Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $3,647 Avg. Aid Amount
- 37% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Wake Technical Community College
- Wake Tech’s Nurse Aide program offers scholarships that cover the full cost of registration and fees through the Propel program, making the training financially accessible to many students.
- The program includes a blended learning option with 28 hours of online instruction combined with in-person clinical experiences, providing flexibility for students confident in computer proficiency and time management.
- Clinical rotations are conducted in hospitals or long-term care facilities under licensed nursing supervision, ensuring strong hands-on experience and high preparedness for certification.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $3,647 Avg. Aid Amount
- 37% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Central Piedmont Community College
Charlotte, NCProgram Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,647 Avg. Aid Amount
- 30% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Central Piedmont Community College
- The Nursing Assistant program at CPCC offers accelerated 16-week training, enabling students to quickly earn their Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) credential and enter the workforce sooner.
- The program provides clinical learning experiences at multiple campus locations, including Central and Levine campuses, enhancing hands-on skills and workplace readiness.
- Students benefit from rigorous evaluation and eligibility for the North Carolina Nurse Aide Registry, ensuring recognized certification and eligibility for employment across a wide range of healthcare settings.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,647 Avg. Aid Amount
- 30% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,560 Avg. Aid Amount
- 42% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Richmond Community College
- Richmond Community College’s Nursing Assistant II program offers instruction in advanced nursing skills aligned with the North Carolina Board of Nursing, enhancing career qualifications beyond basic CNA training.
- The program provides flexible scheduling options, including day, evening, and hybrid classes, accommodating various student needs for convenience and balance.
- Scholarship opportunities are available for self-paying students in the Nursing Assistant II course, reducing financial barriers to enrollment and completion.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,560 Avg. Aid Amount
- 42% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Carteret Community College
Morehead City, NCProgram Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,413 Avg. Aid Amount
- 38% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Carteret Community College
- The CNA Apprenticeship program offers paid on-the-job training with flexible schedules and an additional stipend, supporting students financially while gaining hands-on experience in an acute care hospital setting.
- Students in the program receive personalized mentorship from experienced nurses, providing guidance, real-world insights, and enhanced skill development throughout their training.
- Graduates have the opportunity to transition into full-time positions with benefits at Carteret Health Care, along with access to scholarships for advancing nursing education and career growth.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,413 Avg. Aid Amount
- 38% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,904 Avg. Aid Amount
- 33% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Sandhills Community College
- The program offers both traditional and blended course formats with convenient scheduling options, allowing flexibility for students balancing responsibilities.
- State-approved Nurse Aide I training prepares students to take the State registry exam and meet requirements for further nursing education pathways.
- Registration is managed through the Continuing Education office, facilitating easier access and enrollment for working adults and career changers.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,904 Avg. Aid Amount
- 33% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,858 Avg. Aid Amount
- 49% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Piedmont Community College
- Piedmont Community College's Nursing Assistant program offers a dedicated Coordinator/Instructor for personalized student support and guidance throughout the program.
- The program prepares graduates to be eligible for registry as a Nurse Aide I, facilitating employment opportunities in diverse healthcare settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, and doctors’ offices.
- Students have access to a broad range of related health and wellness programs at Piedmont, enhancing networking opportunities and career advancement possibilities within the healthcare field.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,858 Avg. Aid Amount
- 49% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,309 Avg. Aid Amount
- 38% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Sampson Community College
- The Nursing Assistant program at Sampson Community College offers hands-on clinical learning experiences combined with class and laboratory training, ensuring comprehensive practical skills for students.
- The program provides skill/competency evaluations upon course completion, effectively preparing students for certification and employment readiness.
- Sampson Community College’s Nursing Assistant courses emphasize supervised training under licensed healthcare professionals, enhancing real-world competence and professional networking opportunities.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,309 Avg. Aid Amount
- 38% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Durham Technical Community College
Durham, NCProgram Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $984 Avg. Aid Amount
- 27% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 7/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Durham Technical Community College
- Durham Tech's Nurse Aide I program offers ConnectFund grants for Durham County residents and local high school graduates, providing tuition payment assistance.
- The program partners with NC CareGivers to reimburse training and testing costs and connects graduates to employers offering a $500 bonus after six months of work.
- Students receive guidance on submitting prerequisite documents securely and benefit from a structured onboarding process including approval and payment steps to ensure smooth program entry.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $984 Avg. Aid Amount
- 27% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 7/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,921 Avg. Aid Amount
- 33% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Gaston College
- Gaston College’s Nursing Assistant program offers a low tuition cost of $230, making it an affordable choice for students entering healthcare.
- The program includes a hybrid Nurse Aide I Refresher course, providing flexible learning options to accommodate different student needs and schedules.
- Upon completion, students qualify for the North Carolina Nurse Aide I Registry, ensuring high clinical relevance and credibility for employment in the state.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,921 Avg. Aid Amount
- 33% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘25-’26 school year.
One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs
To be eligible for ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves:
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- At least one online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.
- The existence of academic and career counseling on campus and/or online.
Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs
After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the school themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS.
The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted*.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area.
- Avg. Aid Amount – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Students w/ Aid – Percent of full-time, first-time students undergraduates awarded institutional aid.
- Online Enrollment – Percent of undergraduate students taking at least one distance education class.
- Graduation Rate – Percent of full-time, first-time receiving an award in 6 years.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
*Metrics #2-5 and #6-7 were equally weighted.
About Our Data
EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2025
Keep Learning
Online LPN Programs in North Carolina: NC Schools Compared
Online Nursing Schools in NC: Choosing Top Programs
