Find the Best Certified Nursing Assistant Programs in Virginia
Have you ever considered pursuing a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Virginia? With a projected 8% growth rate in employment over the next 10 years, now is the perfect time to explore this rewarding field. By enrolling in one of the certified nursing assistant programs in Virginia, you will receive the necessary training and skills to excel in this essential healthcare role. In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to the best CNA programs in Virginia and guide you through the certification process, ensuring you’re well-prepared for a fulfilling career as a CNA.
Top Certified Nursing Assistant Programs in Virginia
Choosing the right CNA program is crucial for your success in this field. By enrolling in a top-notch program, you’ll receive the training and skills necessary to provide excellent care to patients in a variety of healthcare settings.
Wytheville Community College
Wytheville Community College, located in the heart of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, offers a comprehensive CNA program.
- Program: Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (A.A.S.)
- Length: Five semesters (two-year program, with pre-requisites in the first semester)
- Purpose: Prepares students to become registered nurses (R.N.) through hands-on education in healthcare settings. Graduates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN).
- Accreditation: Accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), with continuing accreditation status.
Southside Virginia Community College
Southside Virginia Community College offers well-accredited nursing programs, including ADN and LPN certifications, designed to prepare students for successful careers in nursing. The program provides strong employment prospects, flexible career paths, and comprehensive student support systems.
Programs Offered:
- Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (ADN): Prepares students for the NCLEX-RN to become registered nurses.
- Certificate in Practical Nursing (LPN): A program for those aiming to become licensed practical nurses.
- RN to BSN Pathway: Allows registered nurses to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
Accreditation:
- Approved by the Virginia Board of Nursing.
- Accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), with continuing accreditation status.
Danville Community College
Danville Community College offers comprehensive nursing programs with clear pathways for LPN, RN, and LPN-to-RN students. The programs focus on preparing students for licensure, fostering compassionate care, and ensuring high-quality nursing education in line with modern healthcare demands.
Tracks Offered:
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Track: Prepares students to take the NCLEX-PN for licensure as Practical Nurses.
- Bridge Track (LPN to RN): Allows Licensed Practical Nurses to transition to Registered Nurses.
- Registered Nurse (RN) Track: Prepares students to take the NCLEX-RN for licensure as Registered Nurses.
Accreditation: DCC’s nursing programs are under review for accreditation by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), with an upcoming site visit in 2024.
With multiple program options available, students can choose the path that best suits their career goals and schedule.
Requirements and Certification Process for CNAs in Virginia
Now that you’re familiar with the top CNA programs in Virginia, let’s discuss the requirements and certification process. To become a CNA in Virginia, you’ll need to complete a state-approved program and pass the CNA exam.
In this section, we’ll provide more information about the certification requirements and the promising career outlook for CNAs in Virginia.
Virginia CNA Certification Requirements
To become a CNA in Virginia, you must complete a minimum of 140 total hours of training, including 40 hours of clinical training. Prerequisites for enrolling in CNA classes in Virginia may include a high school diploma.
Once you’ve completed a state-approved program, you’ll need to pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP), administered by Credentia.
Career Outlook for CNAs in Virginia
The job outlook for CNAs in Virginia is promising, with an estimated 8% growth rate over the next 10 years, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This growth rate is much faster than the average for all other professions, making it an excellent time to pursue a career as a CNA in Virginia.
By enrolling in one of the top CNA programs in Virginia, you’ll be well-prepared for a successful career in this high-demand field.
CNA Exam Information and Costs in Virginia
The CNA exam in Virginia is a crucial step in the certification process. This exam consists of a written portion with 70 multiple-choice questions and a skills evaluation with 5 randomly selected nursing assistant skills assessed.
The Virginia NNAAP test is available at various regional locations throughout the state, making it accessible for aspiring CNAs. The CNA exam fee in Virginia is $150. This cost needs to be paid before the exam can be taken.
Credentials Role in Administering the CNA Exam
Credentialing plays a vital role in administering the CNA exam in Virginia. Having acquired the Nurse Aide testing program from Pearson VUE in 2021, Credential is now responsible for ensuring that aspiring CNAs in Virginia are thoroughly assessed before entering the workforce.
By overseeing the CNA exam, Credential helps maintain high standards among CNAs and guarantee that they possess the necessary skills and knowledge to provide quality care to patients.
Transferring Out-of-State CNA Certification to Virginia
If you’re a CNA certified in another state and looking to move to Virginia, you can transfer your certification by filling out an application for endorsement and submitting certification from your previous state. The requirements for transferring out-of-state CNA certification to Virginia may vary depending on your state of origin, but generally, you’ll need to submit a copy of your current CNA certification and a passport-sized photo of yourself along with the application.
Fees associated with transferring out-of-state CNA certification to Virginia vary depending on your state of origin and may include an application fee and any additional fees related to the transfer process.
Additional Resources for Virginia CNAs
Apart from the top CNA programs and the certification process, there are additional resources available for Virginia CNAs. The Department of Health Professions, located at 9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 300 Henrico, Virginia 23233-1463, offers support and guidance for CNAs in the state. Their office hours are Monday through Friday from 8:15 AM to 5:00 PM, excluding holidays.
Another valuable resource for CNAs in Virginia is joining a professional nursing organization. Membership in such organizations can provide access to continuing education opportunities, networking and leadership opportunities, and career development resources.
Summary
With a promising career outlook and a variety of resources available to support your professional growth, there’s never been a better time to become a CNA in Virginia. Take the first step toward a fulfilling career today by choosing the right CNA program for you and beginning your journey to becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a CNA in Virginia?
In Virginia, the process of becoming a certified nursing assistant (CNA) involves completing an 80-hour course consisting of 40 hours of classroom instruction and 40 hours of supervised clinical time. On average, this process takes about 4 weeks to complete.
How much does a certified nursing assistant make in Virginia?
A Certified Nursing Assistant in Virginia makes an average of $29,336 per year or $14,10 per hour. Those at the entry level can expect to make around $29,250 a year.
Those with more experience may earn up to $41,357 annually.
How much is the CNA exam in VA?
The CNA exam in Virginia typically costs $35.75 for a written test or $45.85 for both the written and skills tests. The cost may vary depending on the testing site, so make sure to verify the prices when purchasing the voucher.
