Do you want to start your medical career after completing a short-term training in Maryland? If yes, you can choose a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) career. It gives you a variety of adaptable work schedules, job opportunities, and comfortable salaries, and requirements or licensing procedures are not complex either. Having a certificate enables you to provide valuable patient care in Maryland across home health, group homes, hospitals, and assisted living. In this state, various types of nursing assistant certifications are available. CNAs in Maryland can also get other certifications as supplementary such as Dialysis Technicians, Certified Medication Aides, and Home Health Aides.
Types of Certifications for Nursing Assistants in Maryland
Before you learn the steps to become a CNA, you should understand the options available. In order to become a Certified Medication Aide and Home Health Aide, many states need you to go through special training. Beyond it, Maryland offers various certification types as discussed below:
- Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA): It is designed as a fundamental and a primary level for all other certifications. So, you have to earn a CNA certification before opting for a CMA, GNA, Dialysis Technician, or HHA.
- Geriatric Nursing Assistant (GNA): Beyond CNA certification, you can complete some other course and learn certain clinical skills through a GNA certification. A person is eligible for service at long-term care hospitals and licensed nursing homes after passing the examination for GNA. Several schools also provide a joined GNA-CNA program.
- Home Health Aide (HHA): Students having gained the CNA credentials meet the eligibility and training requirements of HHA.
- Certified Medicine Aide (CMA): If a person has achieved a GNA certification along with an experience of 1 year and has completed a 60-hour, state-approved medicine course at a community college, he/she earns the CMA certification.
- Dialysis Technician (CAN-DT): For students having earned a CNA certification, they can achieve the eligibility for working with the dialysis patients by completing the training requirement of the state.
CNA Classes in Maryland
Here are some steps you should follow to achieve your dream of becoming a CNA in the state of Maryland:
Step 1: Choose the Most Suitable Program
In Maryland, there are a variety of CNA programs that are state-approved. But all programs do not offer CNA-DT, CMA, or GNA training. While making a selection, here are some points that can help you find the most suitable program.
- Firstly, find the most interesting employment type because it influences the certification type that a student needs. This will help you shortlist the choice of school and required training as well.
- You can opt to earn a CNA certification prior to or alongside other certifications.
- Beyond CNA, there are various education and/or training required to earn more credentials.
Several institutes provide CNA programs, including nursing homes, community colleges, high schools, academies, renal care clinics, retirement homes, and technical colleges. Students can enlist their options by program and city preference and then compare various options to choose the most suitable match. Moreover, many Maryland-based high schools offer programs following a career path in health sciences that you can follow to gain CNA and CPR credentials. For instance, Paint Branch High School students attending the Academy of Health Professions get certified in 11th grade only with a 4-course first semester followed by a clinical training-based second semester and the senior year covers healthcare studies.
Step 2: Evaluate the Cost of CNA Program
The costs vary with the path that you opt for. You can complete a 6-week CNA & GNA training program with options of day and evening classes for CNA at the American Health Career Institute by spending $1065. An 8-week long CNA program with day/evening classes will cost you $1450 and will cover expenses for fees, books, and tuition at Prince George.
Best CNA Classes in Maryland
Dominion Academy & Healthcare Services
Everything about the school was excellent, the staff, the program and the overall experience. I felt a deep sense of belonging here and connected with both the kind staff and my fellow students. I had a life-changing and very positive experience here and I would very highly recommend the Dominion Academy to anyone looking for a fulfilling and promising experience to shape and build their career. Ms. Esther is incredibly professional, a very good lady. The instructors were very patient and cooperative with the students. They would always carry the entire class along. The clinical was an eye opener, giving you the opportunity to see what the work field looks like. Dominion Academy is a school with a different both educationally, socially and above all spiritually. With the training from Dominion academy School, one will be able to sit in and pass through in any examination with ease.
Address: 8855 Annapolis Rd #305, Lanham, MD 20706
Purple Health and Safety: Columbia-BWI-Elkridge MD
I had such a great experience with my First Aid/CPR class with Purple Health and Safety! My instructor was Matthew and he was awesome! He did a great job at communicating all of the important material but made it super fun and enjoyable! Highly recommended this company and Matthew! Plus the snacks are a major plus 🙂 Wanted to get my Basic Life Support certification and followed a course link from the Red Cross web site to Purple Health and Safety. Wonderful experience all around – registration was simple, very convenient location, clean facility and practice equipment, and the instructor Matthew was excellent. Particularly noteworthy is that they do not cancel your class even if just one or two students are registered. For my class it was just me (a second student was a no-show) so I essentially received a private, one-on-one training session. I am likely going back to PHS for my instructor cert. Highly recommended if you are looking for Red Cross or AHA training. Gwen was incredible. She was very knowledgeable and ensured that we all mastered our skills. She was attentive to every last person and gave additional help when needed. She also was very funny and light hearted. I really enjoyed this class and will return and recommend to anyone seeking a BLS. Matthew was great!
Address: 6865 Deerpath Rd #152, Elkridge, MD 21075
Healthcare Pathways
I’ve taken her classes plenty of times and they are always great this time I had the pleasure of taking a class with her son and he was wonderful Atttt all across the board!!! ☺️😊 definitely recommend …Best First Aid / CPR class I’ve ever attended. The teaching material was clear and concise with videos to show how it correlates and plays out in real life. Shout out to Kiandre! U da man, mehn 😎 Ms Kiesha was an excellent instructor, not only knowledgeable but caring as well. I’ve been goin to healthcare pathways for 5 yrs now. At Healthcare Pathways, Ms. Kiesha and associates are dedicated in providing quality health care education. For anyone looking for a D/N, I happily recommend Ms. Kiesha and associates. Ms. Lewis CMT training was awesome. Kiandre was great. Amazing experience, very professional and fun class. The best place to learn CPR!
Address: 110 Painters Mill Rd Ste 202, Owings Mills, MD 21117
Integrated Health TW – Medical Certifications & Training
Mrs. Tee is great!! I really enjoyed taking her class. She creates a very welcoming atmosphere. No question is a stupid question. She’s really there to help you along your journey, she’s a straight shooter (she going to tell you how it is & what you may need to work on) lol & I love that. She genuinely wants to see her students win & be successful. You don’t see that everywhere so I highly recommend Mrs. Tee for any of her courses. Thank you so much Mrs. Tee ☺️☺️Best experience I’ve had so far! Great teaching strategies and very informative. Took both phlebotomy and medical assistant courses this spring, great manners and well structured both knowledge and hands on training. Would recommend 10/10. The whole class just clicked off to a good start and professor T is very professional and friendly. Mrs.Tee is a great instructor! I learned a lot from taking the Medical Assistant/Phlebotomy class. She was very informative and make sure all of my peers understood each topic before moving on. I am excited and confident about going into the medical field! Mrs Tee is super kind and descriptive and makes sure you understand everything you need to know.
Address: 8109 Harford Rd #2, Parkville, MD 21234
Classic Nurses Services Inc.
I get the school 5 star out of 5 because they made me want to actually go to school. My instructor was Mr. Lebbie and now I am doing my Medication aid class with them. Honestly if I could give them 10 star I would have done so. Miss Gloria is wonderful and Mr. Francis is also excellent they both know what they’re doing. She’s always available whenever you need her weather is on the phone or in person. They both have a personal touch into their teaching. It was wonderful experience with Classic Nurses Services. Miss Gloria and Mr. Francis is the best teacher, I can’t explain how much they gave their effort about our courses. The teacher very friendly and helpful.
Address: 85 S Bragg St #103, Alexandria, VA 22312
Cambridge Nursing Academy
The classes were enlightening and hands-on. The Instructor, Ms. Cynthia was quite engaging and ensured every member of the class was carried along. Ms Cynthia the curse coordinator was wonderful. My learning experience with the Cambridge Nursing School was amazing. Ms Cynthia is indeed a great teacher, she made the online CNA/GNA Course very interesting and insightful. I did my CNA and CMT at Cambridge with Nurse Beri and Ms Cynthia. Very easy people, they made my learning so easy and straightforward. Treated every student the same. Cambridge is a great school if you’re looking for a career in caregiving. I will keep recommending people here. I am very pleased and satisfied as I have completed my education at Cambridge Nursing academy. I will recommend this school to anyone,it is very much professional. The school is amazing. Administration is professional. They assist from day 1 till you graduate and even beyond with job search. This school has a good reputation. Recruiters come there to get potential employees. If you are looking for a way to jumpstart your professional journée in the medical field, this school is what you need. I had a great experience at Cambridge Nursing Academy.
Address: 438 N Frederick Ave #215, Gaithersburg, MD 20877
Nurse One Inc
For your CNA/GNA, CMT, First aid and CPR, Nurse One is the place to go. The instructors don’t just teach you to have your licences, they also teach you to be competent and compassionate nursing assistant. The Instructors go the extra mile to make sure that everyone understands each topic. Very good school to get your CNA/GNA License. Excellent service and they train you to pass not fail. Nurse One is still the best CNA/ GNA School I know, they will teach you to understand in full. It is a nice place to start your healthcare career. They’ve got wonderful staff too. They sure know what they are doing and they will teach you well plus thier payment plan is super lenient. Loved it there the instructor was super nice and I like the payment plan. Best place to Learn and get your Nursing career started. The best amongst the rest! Excellent job. I am happy with my job cos I chose this place. Kudos Nurse One! 💪❤ It’s a place where you will be explicitly taught about Nursing Assistance. Detailed classroom teaching and clinical, guaranteed state board exam pass at one sitting are the added advantage when you choose NurseOne Inc for your training.
Address: 9470 Annapolis Rd #220, Lanham, MD 20706
Morning Star Academy
I would give 5 star except the office could use a new carpet. Enviroment is nice and friendly. They are extremely professional all the instructors honor the school name. If you need to go to school for CNA this school is the best. Very good school. He is very nice and patient. I have known Sam for years. The staff are very welcoming and coprative. Overall I was happy with the service and the staff. A nice place to study Nursing Assistant program.
Address: 101 Lakeforest Blvd Suite 402, Gaithersburg, MD 20877
Health Focus, Inc
Health Focus is such an amazing place to further your education. I started out doing the CNA/GNA program and Miss Oluchi was so wonderful at teaching and making sure you knew exactly what you would be tested on. I’m now finishing up the PCT/EKG/Phlebotomy course with her and couldn’t be more thankful for how much knowledge she has taught me, not just about the health field but also life lessons I will take with me forever. The professor there, Ms. Oluchi does a whole lot more than just help you understand the necessary materials you need to know in order to graduate the class and move on to take the GNA exam. She teaches life lessons that will mold you into a better person. How to get to know and treat your patients on a deeper level; a more meaningful level and how to always treat them with dignity and respect. Very happy with the school and looking forward to taking the PCT class. I give Heath Focus Inc. a 10-out-of-10.
Address: 4900 Belair Rd, Baltimore, MD 21206
Classic Nurses Academy
I am so proud to had decided to attend Classic Nursing Academy. Instructors Mr. Francis are very patient, detail oriented and excellent educators and Administrate William he is Amazing. Classroom and Lab its full. This all-good thing it’s to help me understand the CAN class and Pass the Virginia Board of Nursing Bothe Exam Easily. I say Thanks All Classic Nursing Academy Stuff. I Recommend Highly Classic Nursing Academy is the best School. My experience with school ( Classic Nurses Academy) was extraordinary. The best place to study and pass your board exams with distinction. The teachers are so good and they teach so well. I will highly recommend classic nurses Academy. Classic nursing classes is training and educational skills are wonderful. Teachers Helpful and nice people around. Great team! Classical nursing is one of the best school I attended. The trainers are professional, their approach is friendly and positive. The place is clean and complete. The training materials is up to date and The training is very helpful for the work. Classic nurses Academy is the best school to go and learn your basic nursing career, they have patience and all it takes to make you learn had to pass your tests. I personally recommend this school for every single person to come. The best CNA school. Friendly but very professional staff.
Address: 85 S Bragg St #103, Alexandria, VA 22312
The Nursing Assistant Academy
The Nursing Assistant Academy is a great school that provides a flexible schedule for their online CNA course. Ms. Herma Marks is a good instructor who provides tips and study guides. The course outline really helped out knowing what’s to come every week. Ms. Marks was really helpful every time I had a question or concern about something. The availability of the teacher was remarkable. Lastly, the virtual clinical was made in such a way that I develop love and passion of my passion to become a nurse in the future. I recommend The Nursing Assistant Academic school for better lectures. The tutors are lovely too and well accommodating. Choosing the Nursing Assistant Academy to enhance our program is one of the best decisions we’ve made! We will continue to utilize their services due to their professionalism and commitment to guide their students to success! Best school ever!!!! I just completed my CNA online and the process was so convenient, flexible, and Ms. Herma was very helpful. Do not hesitate to join! You wouldn’t regret it.
Address: 5811 Baltimore Ave #101, Riverdale, MD 20737
Compassionate Academy
Compassionate Academy is the best learning institution with the best instructor I have ever met. Ms. Mary is the teacher here and she’s honestly the best, always making learning fun and teaching the importance of life lessons. You get taught hands-on and trained by the best. Ms. Mary is the best teacher. I highly recommend this school because Ms. Mary will make sure you are catching up with your work, she will go over it, and she has patience with everyone. Miss Mary’s teaching skills are exceptional. You have fun and learn at the same time. She makes the whole preparation to become GNA effortless. Thank you Ms. Mary, see you soon. The teacher Miss Mary is very caring and well-organized. The process was easy as she was willing to do a one-on-one class with me for CMT. She really cares and ensures that you understand what is being taught. I will definitely encourage anyone doing CNA, CMT, CPR, and First Aid to give Compassionate Academy a try. The name says it all. Fantastic school! Best school. Everything is simplified to help you learn faster. Truly the best school experience. The instructors are very helpful. I highly recommend it. Ms. Mary is awesome! Very thorough teacher!
Address: 1835 University Blvd E, Hyattsville, MD 20783
Precise Academy
Precise Academy is an awesome school to attend, Ms Joy is so nice and gives one on one experience, she allows you to call her for any questions you have anytime of day. I’m so grateful for Precise academy and the opportunity they gave me to further my education. Thank you Ms Joy for everything you do and going over and beyond for your students. Precise Academy is the right place to take your CMT, CNA/GNA. The tutor (Auntie joy) is such a wonderful person. I humbly recommend anyone who what’s to take the above courses should go to Precise Academy. The instructor, Joy Oparanozie is very engaging and down to earth. Always willing to work with students at their own pace plus her life coaching lessons which come as an added bonus are just second to none. Would definitely recommend. Ms Joy is an excellent motivator and professional. I Roseline F. highly recommend Precise Academy to anyone who is interested in becoming a CNA/GNA. The academy is a good place for fresh students and new beginners in the nursing program. The learning method prepares you not only to be a professional but to see great value in what you are doing and this makes it very interesting and encouraging.
Address: 10806 Reisterstown Rd # 3B, Owings Mills, MD 21117
Greenbelt Career Institute/Nursing Agency
I am giving this school two star because I took my CMT class and till date I have not gotten the license I paid for(getting to four months now) . I got a job but I can’t work because it is taking forever for this school to give me feedback. Please the instructor needs to do a better job at guiding their students because that is what a good school is known for. I paid for this license and still can’t get what I paid for. Otherwise the school is accredited but needs more organization. They got us well prepared for the exams, I passed my GNA at first attempt, wonderful instructors, awesome teaching!
Address: 6201 Greenbelt Road Suite U8A, Berwyn Heights, MD 20740
Excel Health Institute
Excel Health Institute was the best decision I’ve made while in nursing school. Ms. Ellen goes over step by step with you and really has a passion for teaching her students. I am happy I took the CNA class to boost my health care skills. 10/10 experience wish I did it sooner!!! Ms. Ellen is wonderful, she takes the time to make sure that the material being taught is making sense to the class. Excel is also a great place to practice the CNA skills for boards, they have a great practice area with mannequins and supplies. Overall I am so glad I chose Excel Health to help me achieve my CNA, and it is a big part of the reason I went on to pursue my RN and am a nurse today. Ms. Ellen is a wonderful teacher! She takes her job seriously to make sure that each student has the best chance to pass the State exam. Highly recommend Excel Health Institute! The instructors really care for you. They want you to be successful and get the job you want. They want you to be happy in your choice of career and met every goal set. At excel they have a job and that job is to successfully see you pass each and every exam and to pass the required state exams.
Address: 8647 Mathis Ave STE 202, Manassas, VA 20110
Caroline Center
Attending the Caroline Center was the best experience of my life. I learned so much from them and they have helped me to become a better woman and person. Had a wonderful experience there with the teachers, staff & ladies. Felt welcoming and honored to be apart of this sisterhood. Awesome center for women to learn life skills and healthcare training. Best nursing and pharmacy tech school ever and very professional.
Address: 900 Somerset St, Baltimore, MD 21202
Rescuing Hearts LLC
Rescuing Hearts is a very fast, and determining process to obtaining any medical certification. It was by far the easiest course I’ve taken in a long time, and most definitely worth the money and time. Ms. Tavonia Stackhouse (the owner of the organization) herself as an instructor. She is a very understanding woman, who has made everything as clear as possible and taught me the most importance of the work that I needed to know. She is the reason my journey to receiving my phlebotomy certificate was an outstanding experience and a success. She was also able to get me my first job in my training, the very next week or two after completing her course. I have referred plenty of my friends to Rescuing hearts for several different medical certificates because I know they will succeed like I did, with no doubt. I will continue to refer people from all around to give “Rescuing Hearts”, Ms. Tavonia Stackhouse, and her team a try, because she will guarantee you your certificate as long as you put the work and time in. Thank you again, Rescuing Hearts, and Ms. Stackhouse for the new life opportunities and this amazing career you have given me.
Address: 713 W Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21201
TOTAL HEALTHCARE INNOVATIONS INC.
Innovative Institute is a great place to learn because I have gotten a lot of knowledge in a short while to cover a long portion. I had a very good experience studying my CNA at innovative institute. It is affordable, has efficient lecturers, well equipped laboratory for clinical studies and their program is well planned and executed. Time management is well established so be rest assured to complete your program as stated. I therefore recommend Innovative Institute to any prospective student looking for a cheap, efficient and reliable place to study and get the CNA or HHA license. The trainers are experts come all come and witness.
Address: 1805 Montana Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002