13 Best CNA Programs & Classes in Pennsylvania [2025]

1. CareBridge Academy

448 N 10th St Suite 400, Philadelphia, PA 19123 (267) 448-0803

CareBridge Academy offers an accelerated CNA program designed for individuals eager to start a healthcare career. This 3.5-week course blends classroom learning, hands-on lab training, and clinical practice under the guidance of experienced nurse instructors.

The curriculum covers essential areas such as infection control, patient communication, personal care, and safety protocols. Approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, the program prepares graduates to sit for the state CNA exam. With lifetime job placement support, CareBridge Academy helps students transition seamlessly into the healthcare workforce.

• Cost: $1,845
• Program Length: 3.5 weeks
• Prerequisites: High school diploma or equivalent, minimum age of 18

2. Dotlen Academy of Science

105 E Main St, Norristown, PA 19401 (610) 277-8800

Dotlen Academy of Science delivers a comprehensive CNA program that combines classroom instruction, lab exercises, and clinical training in real-world healthcare environments. The program equips students with the foundational skills needed for quality patient care.

In four weeks, students complete 120 hours of instruction, covering infection control, patient safety, effective communication, and daily care procedures. Upon graduation, students are eligible to take the Pennsylvania CNA exam. Flexible schedules and practical training make Dotlen Academy an excellent pathway into healthcare.

• Cost: Contact school for details
• Program Length: 4 weeks (120 hours: 40 classroom, 40 lab, 40 clinical)
• Prerequisites: High school diploma or equivalent, health clearance, background check

3. Falcon Institute of Health and Science

3045 Avenue B, Bethlehem, PA 18017 (610) 253-2527

Falcon Institute of Health and Science offers an intensive CNA program that prepares students for healthcare roles in just 18 days. The course includes classroom instruction, lab practice, and clinical training, providing a fast yet thorough learning experience.

Students explore infection control, personal care procedures, restorative techniques, and effective communication. Graduates earn a certificate and qualify for the Pennsylvania CNA exam. With additional support services like tutoring and job placement assistance, Falcon Institute helps students transition from training to employment with confidence.

• Cost: Contact school for details
• Program Length: 18 days (120 hours total)
• Prerequisites: High school diploma or equivalent, health clearance, background check

4. Philadelphia Academy for Nurse Aide Training (PANAT)

5070 Parkside Ave, Suite 1422, Philadelphia, PA 19131 (267) 461-0368

Philadelphia Academy for Nurse Aide Training (PANAT) provides a focused CNA program that integrates classroom lessons, lab work, and clinical experience at local nursing facilities. Designed for fast entry into healthcare, this four-week program delivers targeted, practical training.

The 135-hour curriculum covers infection control, patient care, communication, and workplace safety. PANAT’s expert instructors and strong employer network support students from enrollment to certification. Graduates are fully prepared to take the Pennsylvania CNA licensing exam and begin their healthcare careers.

• Cost: $1,575
• Program Length: 4 weeks (135 hours)
• Prerequisites: High school diploma or equivalent, health clearance, background check

5. Tranquility and Allegiance Academy

2519 Germantown Ave Suite 301, Philadelphia, PA 19133 (215) 279-7273

Tranquility and Allegiance Academy offers a personalized CNA program with small class sizes, ensuring individual attention and hands-on practice. The academy’s practical approach helps students gain real-world experience in a supportive environment.

Over three weeks, students complete 103 hours of training, including instruction in infection control, patient rights, communication, and caregiving skills. Upon graduation, students qualify for the Pennsylvania CNA exam. Conveniently located and accessible by public transport, the academy provides flexible training options for busy learners.

• Cost: Contact school for details
• Program Length: 3 weeks (103 hours)
• Prerequisites: High school diploma or equivalent, health clearance, background check

6. Pure Excellence Healthcare (P.U.R.E.)

4464 Lincoln Hwy Suite 7, York, PA 17406 (717) 252-6127

Pure Excellence Healthcare (P.U.R.E.) offers an employer-sponsored CNA program, making it an attractive option for students seeking direct employment opportunities. The program combines classroom learning with clinical practice, ensuring students gain practical caregiving experience.

Key topics include patient safety, infection control, communication, and daily care procedures. Graduates are prepared to take the Pennsylvania CNA exam and enter the healthcare workforce. Through employer partnerships, P.U.R.E. helps students transition smoothly from training to employment.

• Cost: Employer-sponsored (contact school for details)
• Program Length: Contact school for details
• Prerequisites: High school diploma or equivalent, employer sponsorship, health clearance, background check

7. Reading Area Community College (RACC)

10 S 2nd St, Reading, PA 19602 (610) 372-4721

Reading Area Community College (RACC) offers a state-approved CNA program that integrates classroom lessons, hands-on lab practice, and clinical training at a local long-term care facility.

Throughout the 120-hour program, students learn infection prevention, communication, personal care, and patient safety. Scholarship opportunities are available to help offset costs. Upon completion, graduates are eligible for the Pennsylvania CNA exam and well-prepared for healthcare employment.

• Cost: $1,390 (plus additional fees for exam, medical clearance, and supplies)
• Program Length: 120 hours (42 classroom, 24 lab, 54 clinical)
• Prerequisites: High school diploma or equivalent, health clearance, background check

8. Stroudsburg Institute of Health and Allied Services

18 N 7th St 2nd Floor, Stroudsburg, PA 18360 (570) 218-8700

Stroudsburg Institute of Health and Allied Services offers a comprehensive CNA program with a remarkable 100% pass rate on the state certification exam. Evening classes allow students to work while training for their new career.

Over six weeks, students participate in lectures, hands-on lab practice, and clinical rotations in healthcare facilities. The curriculum covers patient care, infection control, dementia care, and professional development. Graduates are prepared to take the Pennsylvania CNA exam and confidently begin their healthcare careers.

• Cost: Contact school for details
• Program Length: 6 weeks (120 hours: 40 classroom, 25 lab, 55 clinical)
• Prerequisites: High school diploma or equivalent, health clearance, background check

9. Rapha School

17 Griffith Dr, Home, PA 15747 (724) 397-2365

The Rapha School provides the Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP), blending classroom instruction, laboratory training, and clinical experience. The program conveniently offers onsite CNA exam testing.

Over 15 days, students complete 120 hours of training in infection control, patient safety, caregiving, and communication. Employer-sponsored tuition options are available, making the program accessible for many students. Graduates are fully prepared for the Pennsylvania CNA certification exam.

• Cost: $1,300 (exam fee of $135 not included)
• Program Length: 15 days (120 hours: 41.5 classroom, 30 lab, 48.5 clinical)
• Prerequisites: High school diploma or equivalent, health clearance, background check

10. Quality Caring Professionals Training Center (QCP)

1420 Walnut St Suite 318, Philadelphia, PA 19102 training@caneliteprofessionals.org

Quality Caring Professionals Training Center (QCP) offers a five-week CNA program approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. Students engage in classroom instruction, lab exercises, and clinical practice, building a strong foundation in patient care.

The curriculum includes chronic disease management, infection control, mental health care, and prevention of resident abuse. Additionally, QCP incorporates career preparation with resume writing and interview coaching. Graduates are eligible for the Pennsylvania CNA exam.

• Cost: Contact school for details (exam fee not included)
• Program Length: 5 weeks
• Prerequisites: High school diploma or equivalent, health clearance, background check

11. The Health and Technology Training Institute (HTTI)

One South Broad Street 6th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19107 (215) 568-2220

HTTI offers a 152-hour CNA program that provides classroom learning, lab practice, clinical training, and CPR certification. The program equips students with the comprehensive skills required for entry-level roles in healthcare.

Students explore infection control, safety protocols, patient communication, and medical equipment handling. Graduates are eligible to take the Pennsylvania CNA exam and pursue healthcare employment. HTTI’s career-focused training prepares students for success in a variety of care settings.

• Cost: $2,356 (includes tuition, fees, and supplies)
• Program Length: 152 hours
• Prerequisites: High school diploma or equivalent, health clearance, background check

12. Western Area Career and Technology Center (WACTC)

688 Western Avenue, Canonsburg, PA 15317 (724) 746-2890

WACTC offers an eight-week CNA program that combines classroom instruction, lab work, and clinical practice. The curriculum provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to deliver safe, effective care.

Students cover infection prevention, patient safety, personal care, and effective communication. Graduates receive a certificate and qualify for the Pennsylvania CNA exam. WACTC’s experienced instructors and flexible class schedules make it an excellent choice for aspiring CNAs.

• Cost: Contact school for details
• Program Length: 8 weeks (120 hours: 42.5 classroom, 27.5 lab, 50 clinical)
• Prerequisites: High school diploma or equivalent, health clearance, background check

13. Dauphin County Technical School

6001 Locust Lane, Harrisburg, PA 17109 (717) 652-3170

Dauphin County Technical School provides a flexible CNA program with day and evening classes. Students complete classroom lessons, lab practice, and clinical rotations in long-term care settings.

The curriculum emphasizes infection control, personal care, communication, and safety protocols. Graduates are prepared to take the Pennsylvania CNA exam. Eligible adult learners may benefit from full tuition reimbursement, making this an affordable route to a healthcare career.

• Cost: Contact school for details
• Program Length: Less than 12 weeks (48 classroom, 29 lab, 44 clinical hours)
• Prerequisites: High school diploma or equivalent, health clearance, background check

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)

Pennsylvania Department of Health
Division of Nursing Care Facilities

Room 526, Health & Welfare Building, 625 Forster Street
Harrisburg, PA 17120
Phone: (717) 787-1816
Email: c-ncomplai@state.pa.us

Credentia

1025 Greenwood Blvd #401
Lake Mary, FL 32746
Phone: (888) 204-6249
Fax: (610) 617-9398
Registry Search Link

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

To become a CNA in Pennsylvania, complete a state-approved training program, meet certification requirements, and pass the state exam. Once certified, your name will be added to the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry.