Top Five CNA Programs in Houston, Texas

Find the best CNA programs in Houston, TX at Wonder Health, Texas Health and Pima Medical. Start your healthcare career today with the right program!
Best CNA Programs in Houston, TX: Top 5 Choices in 2025

With over 1.5 million certified nursing assistants (CNAs) employed nationally, becoming a CNA represents a promising career path in the booming healthcare industry. Approximately 19,000 of these CNAs are based in Houston. The best thing about the Houston CNA job market is that it is expected to grow robustly within the next decade!

To meet local demand and access abundant job opportunities, Houston offers prime CNA certification programs at numerous institutions. While the state requires a minimum of 100 instructor hours with clinical training to qualify for the board exam, high-quality local programs often exceed standards for optimal preparation.

1.

17440 FM 529 Suite 106A, Houston, Texas 77095 (832) 683-4351

Wonder Health Career Institute prepares students to become well-rounded CNAs through a comprehensive 117-hour program. Split between classroom lectures and practical externships, students gain knowledge spanning patient communication, independence and rights, basic care and procedures, safety protocols, and more. Classes run for four weeks in total. The institute offers morning and evening class schedules and hybrid online CNA classes.

  • Cost: $1090 for on-campus instruction, $1220 for online classes
  • Program Length: Four weeks
  • Prerequisites: Inquire with program

2.

11211 Katy Freeway, Suite 170, Houston, TX 77079 (713) 932-9333

Emphasizing dedication, communication, and compassion, Texas Health School's accelerated four-week CNA program develops essential healthcare talents. For added flexibility, six-week evening and 12-week weekend options are available. The program meets state standards for the CNA board exam and is accredited by the Council on Occupational Education.

  • Cost: $895
  • Program Length: Four weeks (Day Classes); 6.25 weeks (Evening Classes); 12 weeks (Weekend Classes)
  • Prerequisites: High school diploma or GED, Wonderlic score of 11, English proficiency

3.

7100 Regency Square Blvd., Suite #210, Houston, TX 77036 (713) 497-1390

With over 90% exam pass and job placement rates within four to six weeks of program completion, Smithwood Medical Institute excels in CNA training. The course provides abundant hands-on practice, clinical experience, and bilingual class support for proficiency across medical care tasks. Smithwood also offers an online self-paced CNA refresher class for recertification needs.

  • Cost: Inquire with program
  • Program Length: Four to six weeks
  • Prerequisites: High school diploma or GED, Wonderlic Score of 11, English proficiency

4.

11125 Equity Dr #100, Houston, TX 77041 (800) 477-7462

Downtown Houston houses Pima Medical Institute, which offers an approximately six-week CNA certification curriculum. Divided across labs, theory lessons, and clinical preparation at nursing facilities, Pima thoroughly covers exam content for first-time test takers. Graduates benefit from Houston's excellent career prospects in the healthcare industry.

  • Cost: $1305
  • Program Length: Six weeks
  • Prerequisites: High school graduation or GED and completion of Wonderlic Scholastic Level Exam (SLE)

5.

2201 S Washington St #2411, Amarillo, TX 79109 (806) 371-5000

Individuals based in Amarillo can become registered CNAs through Amarillo College within a matter of months. Approved by Texas Health and Human Services for training that meets state standards, graduates complete the state exam confidently as a result of Amarillo's program. Certification through Amarillo College leads to abundant professional opportunities with competitive salaries at local hospitals, care facilities, and more.

  • Cost: $890
  • Program Length: Eight weeks
  • Prerequisites: Be 18 years of age and have a high school diploma or GED

In a flourishing industry like healthcare, earning the right credentials unlocks countless jobs. Enroll in one of these five top programs today to begin an exciting, meaningful career as a CNA in Houston or Amarillo regions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does CNA training cost in Houston?

CNA programs in Houston range from $895 to $1,220 for a four to six-week curriculum, depending on the format. Shorter intensive options tend to be lower cost than extended schedules. Financial aid can offset costs significantly.

What are the main eligibility requirements to enroll as a CNA student?

Typical requirements are a high school diploma or GED, minimum exam score verifying academic readiness, English fluency, health/background checks, and other state criteria. Programs specifics are available on websites.

Do CNA programs in Houston assist with job placement?

Some CNA programs offer career guidance and connections to facilities hiring locally after certification. For example, Smithwood touts a 90% job placement rate for graduates. Checking placement support services will aid your search.

What financial help options exist for CNA training?

From Federal Pell Grants to Texas public funding programs, many resources help offset certification costs through loans, grants, or reimbursable stipends. Inquire with target schools' financial aid offices regarding assistance.

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