Key Points
- UWG’s Fall 2026 CNA classes meet in Carrollton and Newnan.
- Georgia’s CNA employment will grow 4 percent through 2033.
- Training includes 170 hours of classroom and clinical instruction.
Your Guide to New CNA Training Programs in Carrollton and Newnan, GA
Discover upcoming CNA classes, compare local programs, and take the first step toward a rewarding healthcare career in West Georgia.
Some students wait for a seat in a crowded community college CNA course. Others jump at a university-led program like the University of West Georgia’s new offering in Carrollton and Newnan. This fall, UWG launches certification courses tailored to the region’s growing healthcare needs.
Entry-level nursing assistant jobs in Carroll County and Coweta County pay $15 to $18 per hour, with evening and weekend shifts often paying more. With Georgia’s demand for CNAs rising 4% over the next decade, training close to home turns coursework into a steady paycheck faster.
University of West Georgia’s New CNA Program: What’s in Store
The University of West Georgia (UWG) offers a state-approved Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program that prepares students for entry-level healthcare positions. The program is now enrolling for the Fall 2026 session, with in-person classes in Carrollton and Newnan.
Program Locations and Schedule
Classes are held at UWG’s Carrollton campus in the Murphy Building and at the Newnan satellite location in the Nursing Suite. The Fall 2026 session runs from August 22 to October 31, spanning 10 weeks.2 The program includes 88 total hours of instruction1, with 24 hours dedicated to clinical skills practice in a healthcare setting.
Tuition, Fees, and Payment Plans
The registration fee is $1,185 for current UWG students and $1,265 for non-students. Additional required costs include a background check ($99.95) and the Georgia state certification exam fee ($130).1 A payment plan is available to spread out costs: - UWG students: $700 due at registration, then $485 before the first day of class. - Non-UWG students: $765 due at registration, then $500 before the first day.1
University Affiliation and Quality
As a program offered through UWG’s Continuing Education division, students benefit from experienced instructors and access to campus facilities. The curriculum is designed to meet Georgia’s certification requirements, and the program is approved by the Georgia Department of Community Health.1
Certification and Career Path
After completing the course, graduates are eligible to sit for the Georgia CNA Certification Exam.1 Successful candidates are listed on the state nurse aide registry and can pursue jobs in hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies across the Carrollton-Newnan region, with opportunities to advance From CNA to RN.
Comparing CNA Programs in Carrollton & Newnan: Costs, Schedules, and More
Here’s a side-by-side look at the University of West Georgia’s new CNA program locations in Carrollton and Newnan. Additional local providers will be added as program details become available.
| Provider | Location | Total Cost | Duration | Schedule Options | Clinical Hours | Admission Requirements | State-Approved | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of West Georgia | Carrollton | $1,538 (includes exam, background check, liability insurance) | 10 weeks | Saturday daytime; Monday/Wednesday evening; Tuesday/Thursday evening | 24 hours | High school diploma or equivalent; background check; health screening | Yes | 88 total hours; multiple schedule formats to fit work or family obligations |
| University of West Georgia | Newnan | $1,538 (includes exam, background check, liability insurance) | 10 weeks | Saturday daytime; Monday/Wednesday evening; Tuesday/Thursday evening | 24 hours | High school diploma or equivalent; background check; health screening | Yes | 88 total hours; satellite location convenient for Newnan residents |
Georgia's need for certified nursing assistants is on the rise: the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 4% employment growth for nursing assistants in the state through 2033. That steady demand means reliable job openings for new CNAs in hospitals, nursing homes, and home care settings.
How to Pay for CNA Training: Financial Aid, Grants, and Payment Plans
Understanding CNA Program Costs in Georgia
CNA training in Georgia typically costs $500, $1,500. With financial aid, CNA Training Scholarships and Grants, and employer support, you can cover much of the expense. Always ask for a full fee breakdown, tuition, books, scrubs, and exam fees may be separate.
WIOA Grants and Workforce Development Boards
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) pays full training costs for eligible Georgia residents, including youth 17, 24, unemployed, and underemployed individuals. For Carrollton and Newnan, contact the Carrollton Department of Labor: Julie Hallmark at 770-838-2633. Start early; the process can take a few weeks.
Scholarships and Payment Plans from Local Providers
Local providers also offer scholarships and payment plans. Premier Medical Training Services expanded to Carrollton to meet growing demand, and it partners with WIOA and the Goodwill of the Southern Rivers to offer CNA scholarships. Goodwill has career centers in Carrollton, LaGrange, and Newnan. Call Premier at 706-756-2164 to ask about current scholarships. Many schools let you pay in installments, ask about payment plans when you enroll.
Employer-Sponsored Training and Tuition Reimbursement
Many Georgia healthcare employers, like Townsend Park, Winthrop Court Senior Living, and Reliable Health Care, will pay for your CNA training or reimburse you afterward, often with a work commitment1. Check with your HR department, even if it's not advertised; some employers cover costs for motivated staff3.
Federal Aid and Other Resources
If you train through a college like the University of West Georgia's CNA program, you may qualify for federal aid. The Pell Grant offers up to $7,395 yearly for approved certificate programs2. Veterans can use GI Bill benefits at approved institutions1. For UWG's Saturday CNA program, email [email protected].
What to Expect: CNA Curriculum, Clinical Hours, and Skills You’ll Learn
Georgia requires every CNA program to include at least 85 hours of classroom instruction and 85 hours of supervised clinical training. Together, these 170 hours ensure you master both the theory and hands-on tasks needed to pass the state certification exam and work safely with patients. The University of West Georgia’s new CNA classes in Carrollton and Newnan follow this state-mandated structure, blending on-campus learning with real-world practice at local healthcare facilities.
Classroom Curriculum: Building Your Foundation
Before you touch a patient, you will spend several weeks in a classroom learning core nursing assistant concepts. Topics cover patient rights, infection control, body mechanics, and basic anatomy. Instructors emphasize communication techniques for talking with patients, families, and the nursing team. You will also study how to measure and record vital signs like blood pressure, pulse, and temperature. Other lessons include recognizing and reporting changes in a patient’s condition, maintaining a safe environment, and understanding the role of a CNA within a larger care team. Classroom sessions typically run multiple days a week, with some programs offering accelerated daytime schedules or evening options. At UWG, expect interactive lectures, videos, and group exercises that prepare you for the skills lab and clinical rotations.
Key Hands-On Skills You Will Practice
After you grasp the theory, you will move into skills practice. Georgia’s curriculum requires you to demonstrate proficiency in about 20 clinical tasks. These include: - Patient hygiene: Bathing, oral care, and perineal care for bedridden or dependent residents. - Mobility assistance: Transferring patients from bed to wheelchair, using gait belts, and positioning to prevent pressure sores. - Vital signs: Measuring blood pressure, pulse, respiration rate, and blood oxygen levels. - Documentation: Charting care given, food and fluid intake, and output in a clear, legal format. - Communication: Using therapeutic techniques to calm anxious patients and report observations accurately to nurses.
You will practice these skills on mannequins and classmates in a lab before performing them on live patients under supervision. UWG’s instructors are experienced nurses who guide you through each skill until you are confident.
Clinical Rotations: Real Patients, Real Experience
Your clinical hours take place in a nursing home, hospital, or long-term care facility near Carrollton or Newnan. You will wear scrubs, follow facility rules, and work alongside staff CNAs. Under instructor supervision, you will assist residents with daily living activities, take vital signs, and practice the communication skills you learned in class. Clinicals often span several full-day sessions, giving you a realistic view of a CNA’s daily routine. Because UWG partners with local providers, you may train in settings that could later hire you. This hands-on portion is where most students say everything clicks, and theory meets practice, and you start feeling like a true nursing assistant.
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Questions to Ask Yourself
Can I commit to the class schedule, whether day, evening, or weekend?
CNA programs in Carrollton and Newnan may offer varied times. Missing sessions could delay your certification and job start, so check your availability against the program's requirements.
Do I meet the admission prerequisites, including age, education, and background checks?
Georgia CNA programs typically require a high school diploma or GED, a minimum age of 18, and a clean background screening. Confirm these early to avoid last-minute surprises.
How will I finance the program, and am I eligible for any financial aid?
Costs for CNA training can range from $800 to $2,000 in Georgia. Explore employer sponsorships, workforce grants, or payment plans to reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
What is my timeline to become a working CNA after enrolling?
Program length varies from 4 to 12 weeks, plus state exam scheduling. Align your target completion date with hiring cycles at local hospitals or long-term care facilities.
Admission Requirements and Steps to Enroll in a Carrollton CNA Program
Basic Prerequisites for CNA Training
Before you apply to a CNA program in Carrollton, make sure you meet these common CNA requirements:
- Minimum Age: You must be at least 18 years old to take the Georgia CNA competency exam. Some programs may accept 17-year-olds with parental consent, but most require you to be 18 by the time you finish.
- Education: A high school diploma or GED is typically required. If you don't have one, some programs may allow you to take a basic skills test as an alternative.
- Background Check: All applicants must pass a criminal background check. This is a standard requirement for anyone pursuing work in a healthcare setting. Certain felony convictions may disqualify you from certification.
- Drug Screen: A negative drug test is often required before you can begin clinical rotations. Results must be current, so expect to complete this step close to the start date.
- Health Clearance: You will need a recent physical exam, a negative TB test (or chest X-ray if positive), and proof of specific immunizations. These commonly include MMR, varicella, hepatitis B series, Tdap, and an annual flu shot. COVID-19 vaccination may also be required depending on clinical site policies.
- CPR Certification: Many programs require you to hold a valid Basic Life Support (BLS) CPR card from the American Heart Association or Red Cross before you can start clinical hours.
The Enrollment Process
Here is a step-by-step look at what you can expect when you sign up for a CNA course in Carrollton or Newnan:
1. Research and Compare Programs: Start by reviewing available programs in the area. Look at costs, schedules, and location. The University of West Georgia's new fall offering is a great option for Carrollton and Newnan residents, but other CNA classes in Georgia may also be worth considering. 2. Submit an Application: Most institutions have an online application. For UWG, you may need to apply as a non-degree seeking student or through their continuing education division. Be prepared to pay a small application fee. 3. Complete Required Testing: Some programs require a placement test to assess your reading and math levels. Examples include the TABE (Test of Adult Basic Education) or ACCUPLACER. UWG may have its own admissions criteria; check with their office directly. 4. Attend an Interview or Information Session: Selected applicants might be invited for a brief interview or mandatory orientation. This is your chance to ask questions and confirm that the program fits your career goals. 5. Register and Pay: Once accepted, you will register for the class and pay tuition and any associated fees. Payment plans may be available. A registration deposit may be required to hold your seat. 6. Submit Required Documentation: Before the first day of class, you must turn in your immunization records, TB test results, CPR card, and physical exam form. Missing paperwork can delay your start.
Specifics for UWG's Carrollton Program
The University of West Georgia's CNA training is being offered at both the Carrollton main campus and the Newnan satellite location. As a university-affiliated program, it may have slightly different admissions steps than a standalone training school. For instance, you might need to verify that they meet the minimum age requirement (likely 18), and you should clarify whether a high school diploma or GED is necessary or if you can test in. The program details published in the Times-Georgian article indicate fall classes start in late August or early September 2025, so planning ahead is key. Because UWG serves traditional students and adult learners, the CNA course may have available seats for continuing education students, but you will need to confirm the specific application portal and deadline.
Reach Out to Secure Your Spot
Enrollment windows can be short, especially for popular CNA sessions in fast-growing areas like Carroll County and Coweta County. Always contact the program coordinator directly to ask about current application dates, prerequisites, and any program-specific requirements. For UWG's CNA classes, check their website or call their nursing or continuing education department to get the latest updates. Seats often fill quickly, so gathering your documents and applying early is the smartest way to ensure you can start training this fall.
CNA Certification in Georgia: Passing the State Exam and Getting on the Registry
The CNA exam, administered by Credentia, consists of a 70-question written test and a 5-skill demonstration1, and costs $130 to take. You must schedule your exam at least 10 days in advance.1
What the Exam Covers
The written portion includes 60 scored questions and 10 unscored pretest items, with a 120-minute time limit. If English is not your primary language, you can request an oral exam instead. The skills demonstration tests you on five key nursing assistant procedures, such as hand hygiene, vital signs, or transfers; you'll be evaluated by a trained examiner in a clinical setting.
Fees and Retake Rules
The initial exam fee is $130 for both sections. If you need to retake one part, the written retake costs $35, while a skills retake is $95.
Getting on the Registry
Once you pass both parts, your results are forwarded to the Georgia Nurse Aide Registry by your testing site or training program. After processing, your name appears on the state's online registry, managed by the Georgia Department of Community Health. Employers verify your CNA certification through this database, so it's essential to keep your information current.
Study Smart Before Test Day
Strong preparation can make the difference. Your UWG or other program may offer practice exams, study guides, or skill labs. Outside resources like Credentia's candidate handbook and sample questions are also worth reviewing. Focus on common clinical scenarios and step-by-step checklists for the skills test; practice exactly as you'll be evaluated.
CNA Jobs and Salaries in Carrollton and Newnan: What You Can Earn
With healthcare facilities throughout the region actively expanding their nursing teams, the demand for Certified Nursing Assistants in Carrollton and Newnan has never been stronger. For local residents completing their training, this means a direct path to steady work that pays competitively and is often available right after certification.
What You Can Expect to Earn as a CNA in West Georgia
Recent job market data for the area shows competitive wages for new graduates. In Newnan, according to recent CNA job listings in Newnan, average hourly pay is $18.09, with most CNAs earning between $14.76 and $20.38. Carrollton reports an average annual salary of $35,118 based on nursing assistant job listings, with a typical range from $29,200 to $38,500. These figures suggest that new CNAs can expect to start in the low $30,000s and quickly move up.
Where to Find CNA Jobs in Carrollton and Newnan
Large healthcare employers throughout the area are actively hiring. Major players include: - Tanner Health System: The anchor hospital in Carrollton regularly posts CNA openings on general medical-surgical floors and specialty units. - Piedmont Newnan Hospital: A major acute-care provider with frequent needs for nursing assistants. - Newnan Health & Rehabilitation: Currently listing hourly wages of $18.45 to $21.00 for CNAs.1 - Rehabilitation Hospital of Newnan: Offers $16.00 to $20.22 per hour for nursing assistant roles.1 - Carrollton Manor: A skilled nursing facility with starting wages from $12 to $15 an hour, a common entry point for new CNAs. - Home-care agencies like Right at Home offer $14 to $16 per hour starting,2 with flexible schedules.
PRN (as-needed) CNAs at Med-Surg units in Newnan can command as much as $25.03 an hour,3 showing the premium paid for flexible, experienced workers. Multiple active job postings across these facilities confirm that demand is real and immediate.4
Why This Career Moves Forward Fast
Georgia does not require CNAs to be licensed, only that they pass a state-approved competency exam and join the nurse aide registry. Because the University of West Georgia’s program leads directly to certification,5 graduates are eligible to work the moment they test out. With steady demand and turnover in entry-level healthcare roles, the pipeline from classroom to first paycheck is unusually short. For someone who finishes the fall CNA class, it is realistic to be employed before the end of the year.
The numbers tell a consistent story: Carrollton and Newnan offer reliable, above-average wages for nursing assistants, a wide variety of work settings, and a hiring market that rewards those who get certified. Now is the time to jump in.
Frequently Asked Questions About CNA Training in West Georgia
Navigating CNA training can raise many questions. Here are straightforward answers to common queries from students looking at programs in Carrollton, Newnan, and across West Georgia.
In Georgia, training programs require a minimum of 85 hours1. UWG's program, for instance, spans 88 hours2 with classes held on Saturdays or weekday evenings, allowing completion in about 8 to 12 weeks depending on the schedule. After finishing the coursework and 24 clinical hours2, you must pass the state exam1 to get certified.
Yes, many programs are designed for busy adults. UWG's fall 2026 classes offer a Saturday daytime option in Carrollton and a Tuesday/Thursday evening option in Newnan, letting you fit training around a job. Just plan ahead for the required 24 hours of clinical experience, which may involve daytime shifts at a healthcare facility.
Fully online CNA training isn't practical because of the required hands-on clinical hours. Georgia requires 24 hours of in-person clinical experience1. While some programs may offer theoretical coursework online, you will still need to attend lab and clinical sessions on site. UWG's program is entirely in-person to ensure real-world skill development.
A CNA primarily assists with daily living activities like bathing, feeding, and vital signs. Patient care technicians (PCTs) often perform additional clinical duties, such as drawing blood or performing EKGs, and typically work in hospitals. CNAs are more common in long-term care. Both are entry-level, but PCT training may require extra certifications.
Yes, Georgia requires renewal every 24 months. To stay active on the Georgia Nurse Aide Registry without retesting, you must have performed at least eight hours of paid nursing-related work during the previous two years1. If you do not meet this requirement, you will need to retake the state certification exam to regain active status.
While programs like UWG's do not guarantee job placement, their training meets state requirements and employers in the Carrollton and Newnan regions actively hire CNAs. The strong demand for nursing assistants often means graduates find positions quickly. Many healthcare facilities also recruit directly from training programs or through local job fairs.
Check that the program is approved by the Georgia Department of Community Health. Both UWG2 and the Nurse Aide Certificate at West Georgia Technical College4 hold this accreditation. You can verify approval by visiting the Georgia Nurse Aide Registry website or asking the school for its provider code. Only approved programs qualify you for the state exam.
Costs vary: UWG's program is $1,185 for university affiliates and $1,265 for others2, plus exam and background fees. West Georgia Technical College offers a $775 program4. Statewide, prices range from free to $1,5001. Financial aid, such as Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act grants, may be available; check with the program or local workforce centers for eligibility.
You must be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED. UWG's program does not require full university admission; simply apply through its Continuing Education department5. Expect a background check (around $100 fee)2 and proof of immunizations. Some programs also require a physical exam confirming you can lift 40 to 50 pounds1.
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