NC Schools Offering CNA Courses
Community colleges throughout North Carolina offer CNA training programs, and some schools have programs on multiple campuses. These programs may be called either CNA programs or nurse aide programs. Either way, these programs teach students the skills they need to take care of patients in health care organizations and prepare students to take certification tests. Students need to be up to date on vaccinations, take a TB test and know CPR to enter these programs.
Find detailed information about two of these NC community colleges and their CNA programs, including coursework and program length. Get statistical information about these schools in the table below.
- Fayetteville Technical Community College is among the larger community colleges in the state and is located about 9 miles southeast of Fort Bragg. This school offers two levels of CNA training.
- Gaston College's main campus is found about 25 miles from downtown Charlotte. The college's health education division offers level I and level II nurse aide courses.
Comparison of Schools
As a CNA program candidate, you should explore facts about schools offering these studies before deciding on a program. Read below for statistics and figures regarding tuition, student population, and retention and graduation rates.
| Fayetteville Technical Community College | Gaston College | |
|---|---|---|
| School Type | 2-year, public | 2-year, public |
| Total Enrollment (2021) | 9,790* | 4,953* |
| Campus Setting | Midsize city | Midsize suburb |
| Undergraduate Tuition (2022-2023) | $2,564 (in state) $8,708 (out-of-state)* | 3,186 (in state) $9,330 (out-of-state)* |
| % of First-Year Students Receiving Some Form of Financial Aid (2020-2021) | 88%* | 50%* |
| Acceptance Rate (2021) | 100% (open admissions policy)* | 100% (open admissions policy)* |
| Retention Rate (2020-2021) | 59%* | 67%* |
| Undergraduate Graduation Rate (students who began their studies in 2018) | 19%* | 39%* |
Source: *NCES College Navigator
Fayetteville Technical Community College
Fayetteville Technical Community College (FTCC) is a 2-year public school offering certificate and associate's degree programs on-campus and online. Its CNA program prepares students to take the certification exams required for placement on the North Carolina Health Care Personnel Registry.
Certified Nursing Assistant I and II Programs
The CNA I program provides individuals with the knowledge and training necessary to provide immediate care to patients while working under the supervision of a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or other medical professionals. Students learn how to take vital signs, communicate with patients, dress and change wounds, insert catheters and monitor nutrition. The CNA II program expands upon that training, preparing students to take on more advanced duties in nursing assistance. Prior to the first day of class, participants must show proof of a TB test, current vaccinations and a CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) card. Those applying for the CNA II program must also hold current CNA certification.
Candidates who complete the level I program are eligible to gain Nursing Assistant I certification through the NC Department of Health and Human Services Division of Health Service Regulation. They can then go on to earn positions in hospitals, health care centers, long term medical facilities and home health agencies. Those completing the level II program may gain Nursing Assistant II certification.
Gaston College
Gaston College is a 2-year public school offering vocational certificate and associate's degree programs to over 5,500 students. In addition to the main campus, Gaston College has campuses in Lincoln, Dallas and Belmont.
Nurse Aide I and II Courses
This program prepares individuals to work under the direct supervision of licensed medical professionals at hospitals and other healthcare centers in North Carolina. Students must complete the nurse aide I course and be listed on the NC Nurse Aide I Registry before they can enroll in the nurse aide II course. They learn how to provide personal care for patients, assist with medical equipment management and other nursing techniques.
Nurse aide II students develop advanced skills, such as oxygen therapy, catheterization, wound dressing and respiratory care. The curriculum includes coursework and lab studies, as well as supervised clinical training at a local medical facility.
