Key Points
- Philadelphia employs 30,390 nursing assistants with a median wage of $43,000.
- CNA jobs in Pennsylvania are projected to grow 10% through the mid-2030s.
- Pennsylvania does not permit fully online CNA training as of 2026.
Your Guide to CNA Training and Certification in Philadelphia
Compare CNA programs in Philadelphia: costs, certification steps, and top-rated schools to start your healthcare career.
With over 30,000 nursing assistant jobs in the Philadelphia metro area and employment projected to grow roughly 10% through the mid-2030s, where do you start looking for approved CNA training? The Pennsylvania Department of Education mandates a minimum of 80 hours, split between classroom and clinical work. Costs, schedules, and program quality differ sharply across vocational schools, community colleges, and private training providers.
Philadelphia’s strongest programs combine affordability with strong licensure exam pass rates, and some can be completed in as little as four weeks.
Philadelphia's Growing Need for CNAs: Hospitals, Nursing Homes, and Home Care
Philadelphia's healthcare job market is expanding faster than local training programs can fill it, which means qualified CNAs are in a strong position right now. Understanding who is hiring, and where the demand is coming from, helps you make a smarter decision about which CNA training path to pursue.
The Major Employers Driving Demand
The Philadelphia metro is anchored by some of the largest healthcare systems in the country. Penn Medicine, Jefferson Health, Temple Health, and Trinity Health Mid-Atlantic all operate hospitals, outpatient centers, and rehabilitation facilities across the region, and each employs CNAs at multiple levels of care. Jefferson Health, for instance, offers CNA classes through its LiveWell Centers1, making it one of the few major systems in the city that actively cultivates its own pipeline of certified nursing assistants.
Beyond the big hospital networks, nursing home operators play a significant role in the local job market. Facilities like Meadowview Rehabilitation and Nursing Center offer incentives such as sign-on bonuses to attract candidates.2 Staffing agencies including Legacy Personnel also place CNAs across a range of settings, often with competitive hourly wages for those who hold an active Pennsylvania certification.2
An Aging Population and the Shift to Home Care
The demand for CNAs is not coming from hospitals alone. Philadelphia's population is aging, and more seniors and adults with chronic conditions are choosing to receive care at home rather than in institutional settings. This shift has created steady growth in home health aide and personal care roles that closely parallel CNA work. Agencies and networks like Focus Health Network hire CNAs without prior experience3 and provide on-the-job training, which lowers the barrier to entry considerably.
Crossroads Hospice and Palliative Care is another employer active in the Philadelphia area, typically seeking candidates with at least a few months of hands-on experience4, reflecting the more specialized nature of end-of-life care.
Employer-Sponsored and Free Training Options
Some of these employers do more than post job listings. They actively sponsor or pay for CNA training as a recruitment strategy. Jefferson Health's training program is one example, and it is not alone. Later in this guide, you will find a closer look at free and employer-sponsored CNA programs available to Philadelphia-area residents, including what each program requires and what obligations, if any, come with the offer.
Online and Hybrid CNA Programs Available to Pennsylvania Students
Pennsylvania does not permit fully online CNA training as of 2026. State regulations require all nursing assistant candidates to complete both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical rotations in person at approved healthcare facilities. Students in the Philadelphia area should focus their search on programs that offer flexible scheduling rather than remote coursework.
Flexible Scheduling Options at Philadelphia-Area Schools
While online theory components are not available, many local programs accommodate working adults through varied session times. Holy Family University Nurse Aide Training Program offers daytime, part-time evening, and weekend formats across its six-week curriculum, making it accessible to students balancing employment or family obligations. Germantown Entry Level Nurse Aide Program provides both morning and evening sessions within its four-week, 120-hour structure. CareBridge Academy runs an accelerated 3.5- to 4-week daytime schedule totaling 100 hours, with 41 clinical hours completed at local facilities.
Contacting Schools Directly for Schedule Details
Prospective students should contact admissions offices at Community College of Philadelphia and Montgomery County Community College to confirm current session calendars and clinical site locations. Both institutions run 120-hour programs and typically schedule clinicals at nursing homes, hospitals, or assisted living centers within the Philadelphia metro. Asking about waitlist times, start dates, and whether evening or weekend clinicals are available will help you plan enrollment around your personal schedule.
Verifying Approval Status
Before committing to any program, check the Pennsylvania Department of Education's registry of approved nursing assistant training programs. This ensures your completed coursework will qualify you to sit for the state competency exam. The American Red Cross and National Association of Health Care Assistants maintain program directories, but always verify approval status directly with the state agency to avoid enrolling in a non-accredited course.
CNA Classes in Philadelphia and the Surrounding Area
Philadelphia and the surrounding counties of Delaware, Montgomery, and Bucks offer a range of CNA training programs. Options include vocational schools, community colleges, Red Cross chapters, and private training centers. Because program details can change frequently, taking a few targeted steps before you enroll can save you time, money, and frustration.
Verify a Program Before You Enroll
Before committing to any CNA class, confirm that the program holds current approval from the Pennsylvania Department of Education. The department maintains a list of approved nurse aide training programs on its website, and checking this list is the single most important step you can take. Graduating from an unapproved program means you will not be eligible to sit for the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Competency Exam, which is required for placement on the state registry. The Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook is another useful resource for understanding regional training trends, typical program lengths, and what to expect from the profession overall.
Check Tuition, Schedules, and Prerequisites Directly
Tuition for CNA programs in the Philadelphia area can vary widely depending on whether you attend a community college, a private vocational school, or a Red Cross chapter. Some programs run just a few weeks, while others stretch over several months. Many schools offer day, evening, and weekend schedules to accommodate students who work or have family obligations.
Because costs, start dates, and admission requirements change from one enrollment cycle to the next, always visit the individual school's website or call the admissions office for the most current information. Details to ask about include:
- Total cost: Tuition, registration fees, textbook charges, uniform expenses, and any clinical supply fees.
- Schedule format: Day, evening, or weekend class times, and whether clinical hours follow the same schedule.
- Prerequisites: Background check requirements, immunization records, CPR certification, and minimum age or education thresholds.
- Financial aid: Whether the program accepts grants, scholarships, or payment plans.
Tap Local and National Resources
Community colleges in Philadelphia and the surrounding counties are a strong starting point. They typically offer competitively priced programs and may provide access to federal financial aid. Local American Red Cross chapters also run CNA training courses and can give you firsthand information about upcoming class dates and costs.
For a broader perspective, the National Network of Career Nursing Assistants is a professional association that can help you locate approved programs and read reviews from students who have recently completed training. Hearing directly from graduates about classroom quality, instructor support, and clinical site experiences can give you a clearer picture of what to expect.
A Practical Search Strategy
Rather than relying on a single source, cross-reference what you find. Start with the state's approved program list, then visit individual school websites, and finally reach out to professional associations and fellow students for candid feedback. This layered approach helps you avoid programs that overpromise and ensures you invest your time and money in training that will actually qualify you for the state certification exam. If you are still weighing your options, cnaclasses.org offers tools to help you compare programs and connect with schools that fit your schedule and budget.
CNA Salary and Job Outlook in the Philadelphia Metro Area
Philadelphia offers the highest employment level for nursing assistants in Pennsylvania, with 30,390 positions and a median annual wage of $43,000. The table below shows how the Philadelphia metro area compares to other major Pennsylvania regions for salary and job availability.
| Metro Area | Total Employment | Median Annual Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD | 30,390 | $43,000 |
| Pittsburgh, PA | 12,390 | $39,220 |
| Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton, PA-NJ | 4,930 | $39,430 |
| Harrisburg-Carlisle, PA | 4,140 | $39,010 |
| Lancaster, PA | 3,200 | $40,090 |
How to Become a CNA in Pennsylvania: Requirements and Steps
Training Program Requirements
To become a Certified Nurse Aide in Pennsylvania, you must complete a state-approved training program. The Pennsylvania Department of Education mandates a minimum of 80 total hours, split between 42.5 hours of classroom instruction and 37.5 hours of supervised clinical practice. These programs cover essential skills such as infection control, patient mobility, and vital signs.
Before enrolling, you should plan for several prerequisites: - Age: You must be at least 16 years old. - Education: Although the state does not explicitly require a high school diploma or GED, most training providers expect one. Check with individual programs. - Background Check: A criminal background check and fingerprinting are mandatory. This screening is usually completed through the Pennsylvania State Police and the FBI before you begin clinical rotations or sit for the exam.
The Competency Exam
Once you finish training, the next step is the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam, administered by Credentia.2 The test has two parts: - Knowledge test: A multiple-choice section covering theoretical concepts. - Skills test: You will demonstrate five randomly selected CNA skills in front of an evaluator.
You will need a combined passing score of 70% or higher across both sections. The exam fee is $113. Credentia offers testing at multiple locations in and around Philadelphia; you can schedule a date shortly after completing your program. You must pass the exam within 24 months of finishing your training, otherwise you may need to retrain.
Getting on the Registry
After you pass the exam, your name is automatically added to the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry. This listing proves you are eligible to work as a CNA in the state. To stay active, you must renew every two years. You will need to show at least eight hours of paid CNA work during each renewal period to maintain your certification without retesting.
Regulatory Updates
The requirements described here were current as of 2025. No major rule changes have been announced, but it is smart to check the Pennsylvania Department of Health website periodically. Staying informed helps you avoid surprises, especially if you are planning to schedule your exam several months in advance.
Pennsylvania employs more than 65,000 Certified Nursing Assistants statewide, making it one of the largest CNA workforces in the country. For many, the role is a launchpad: a significant share of CNAs use the credential as a stepping stone into LPN or RN programs within just a few years of certification.
Top CNA Programs for Philadelphia Students: Ranked by Affordability
Below are the top CNA programs serving Philadelphia students, ranked by affordability using IPEDS data on net price after aid, with additional metrics including program length, schedule options, and licensure exam performance. All listed programs are state-approved and meet Pennsylvania's required training hours.
Health and Technology Training Institute
#1Philadelphia, PA · $37,000/yr
Best for: Philadelphia students wanting robust 152-hour training
Health and Technology Training Institute provides Philadelphia's most intensive CNA program at 152 hours, blending classroom, lab, and clinical training in the heart of Center City. With a total cost around $2,361 covering everything from books to the state exam fee, it is an affordable and convenient choice for city residents. The program includes CPR certification and occasionally free training paths for eligible youth, while a satellite site at Inglis House expands access.
- 152-hour training exceeds Pennsylvania's 80-hour minimum
- Total cost of $2,361 includes tuition, books, supplies, and state exam fee
- Free training option for Philadelphia residents ages 17 through 24
- Includes American Heart Association CPR certification
- Daytime classes run 5-6 weeks with clinical rotations
- Center City campus and Inglis House satellite location available
- Admissions test and criminal background check required
Holy Family University
#2Philadelphia, PA · $13,000/yr (net price)
Best for: Aspiring nurses wanting a university pathway
Holy Family University's Nurse Aide Training Program is a six-week, university-based pathway that prepares students for the national exam and opens doors to further nursing education. Small class sizes and clinical rotations at Philadelphia and Bucks County facilities give students personalized, hands-on experience. Tuition is under $2,500 for an all-inclusive package of instruction, uniforms, books, and equipment.
- Six-week program with in-person lectures, lab, and clinical practice
- Tuition under $2,500 covers uniforms, books, supplies, and exam
- Clinical rotations at Philadelphia and Bucks County healthcare sites
- Maximum cohort size of 20 students for personalized attention
- Preparation for the national nurse aide certification exam
- Preferential admission consideration for Holy Family's nursing program
- Minimum age 16, no high school diploma required
Delaware County Community College
#3Media, PA · $5,000 – $10,000/yr
Best for: Commuters wanting Red Cross certification as added value
Delaware County Community College's Excellence in Care Nursing Assistant Program combines 133 hours of didactic, simulation, and clinical work, leading to Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry eligibility. Situated in Media, it is a practical commuter option for Philadelphia-area students seeking an affordable public college pathway. Graduates also earn an American Red Cross certification, adding a nationally recognized credential beyond the state exam.
- 133 hours: 48 didactic, 25 simulation lab, 60 clinical
- American Red Cross Nurse Assistant Training certification included
- Qualifies graduates for the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry
- Six college credits awardable toward a degree program
- High school diploma or GED required for admission
- Simulation lab practice precedes direct patient care rotations
Questions to Ask Yourself
Philadelphia CNA programs vary widely in scheduling. Choosing a format that fits your work or family commitments prevents missed clinical hours and keeps you on track to finish without interruptions.
Clinical rotations often require travel to partner facilities across Philadelphia or neighboring counties. Picking a program close to home or along your transit route can save hours each week and reduce transportation costs.
Some Philadelphia programs advertise low tuition but charge separately for scrubs, CPR certification, background checks, and the state competency exam. Knowing your total out of pocket cost upfront helps you compare programs accurately and avoid surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions About CNA Training in Philadelphia
Find answers to common questions about CNA training, certification, and job prospects in Philadelphia. For the most current information, always check with official state and local resources directly.
How can I find approved CNA training programs in Philadelphia?
The Pennsylvania Department of Health maintains a list of state-approved nurse aide training programs on its website. Contact CNA programs directly to get current details on costs, class schedules, and any free training options that may come with a work commitment.
What is the job outlook and salary for CNAs in the Philadelphia area?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics provides employment projections and wage data for nursing assistants in the Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington metropolitan area. Searching for "Nursing Assistants" on BLS.gov will give you the latest figures. Overall, demand for CNAs remains strong as the region's healthcare sector grows.
How do I renew my CNA certification in Pennsylvania?
Renewal procedures and deadlines are set by the Pennsylvania Department of Health's Nurse Aide Registry. Visit their official site for the most up-to-date requirements, which typically include proof of work hours and a renewal application.
Are there fully online CNA programs available?
No, fully online CNA programs are not available because hands-on clinical training is required. However, some schools offer hybrid programs where theory classes are online and clinical hours are completed in person. Always confirm that any program you consider is on the Pennsylvania Department of Health's approved list.
How much do CNA classes cost in Philadelphia?
Costs vary widely depending on the school and program length. Some programs may be free through employers or workforce grants if you agree to work for a certain period after certification. Contact individual programs for precise tuition and any financial aid options.
How long does it take to become a CNA in Philadelphia?
Most programs can be completed in 4 to 12 weeks, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time. The training includes both classroom instruction and clinical practice, so completion time may vary based on the schedule you choose.
