Certified Nursing Assistant
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Program
The Jump Start Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Program prepares students for a rewarding career in healthcare by providing the knowledge, skills, and credentials needed to work in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home-health environments. This comprehensive program also includes certifications in CPR/AED & First Aid, Home Health Aide (HHA), and Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care.
Program Overview
- Program Length: 5 weeks
- Schedule Options: Day and Evening sessions available
- Mode of Instruction: Hybrid (combination of classroom and clinical training)
- Tuition:
- Free of charge for students currently receiving SNAP, TAFDC, or other eligible benefits*
- $2,880 for students not receiving benefits (bank check or credit card accepted)
- Location: Holyoke Community College – Jump Start Program
- Employment Support: Upon successful completion, students receive job search assistance and career resources to help secure employment in the CNA field.
- State Exam: Graduates are eligible to take the Massachusetts CNA State Exam to obtain their CNA license. Jump Start staff will assist with the testing and licensing process.
Disclaimer: Program information is subject to change. Please contact the Jump Start office for the most up-to-date details
Get Started
Ready to take the next step?
👉 Complete the Jump Start Inquiry Form here
Certifications Earned
Students who successfully complete the program will receive the following credentials:
- Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Certificate
- CPR/AED & First Aid Certification
- Home Health Aide (HHA) Training Certificate
- Dementia & Alzheimer’s Care Certification
Program Requirements
To enroll in the CNA program, students must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Be 18 years of age or older
- Be a Massachusetts resident (valid, unexpired ID/ Driver’s license)
- Be fully vaccinated for COVID-19
- Provide all required medical documentation (see below)
- Acceptable CORI/SORI results
- Pass a drug screening
- Achieve an acceptable score on the WorkKeys English and Math assessments
Medical Documentation Requirements
Students must submit all of the following medical records prior to starting the program:
- Proof of full COVID-19 vaccination
- Tuberculosis (TB) test results
- Flu vaccination
- Physical examination
- Complete immunization records
Failure to submit required medical documentation will result in withdrawal from the program.
Classroom & Clinical Requirements
To earn your CNA certification, students must:
- Maintain 100% punctuality (no more than one absence permitted)
- Successfully complete CPR and Dementia/Alzheimer’s training
- Pass all written and hands-on skills exams
- Complete the required clinical rotation
Career Outlook
Graduates of the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program are prepared for entry-level positions in healthcare facilities that provide direct patient care. CNAs are essential members of the healthcare team, assisting patients with daily living activities and supporting nurses in both clinical and long-term care environments.
Common Job Titles:
- Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
- Patient Care Assistant
- Resident Care Aide
- Home Health Aide (HHA)
- Personal Care Attendant (PCA)
Employment Settings:
- Hospitals and rehabilitation centers
- Nursing homes and assisted living facilities
- Home health agencies
- Hospice and long-term care settings
Job Outlook:
Employment for Certified Nursing Assistants is projected to grow faster than average in the coming years due to an aging population and increased demand for long-term care services. CNAs who continue their education can advance into roles such as Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN).
