Top nursing assistant programs in Washington

Certified nursing assistant (CNA) programs quickly and efficiently qualify their students to embark on a career in healthcare. In only eight to ten weeks, aspiring CNAs are trained to provide basic healthcare, monitor symptoms, record vital signs, and assist more senior nurses in their rounds. Upon completion of the certificate course, CNAs can work in hospitals, medical centers, and clinics under the supervision of licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and registered nurses (RNs).

More than 24,000 CNAs work for Washington’s healthcare providers, including highly regarded institutions like University of Washington Medical Center, Evergreen Health Medical Center, and Providence Holy Family Hospital. The state’s CNAs earn a median annual salary of $28,000; in large cities like Seattle, the top tier of nursing assistants can earn over $35,000. It’s helpful to note that smaller metropolitan areas, such as Olympia and the Tri-Cities, have the most acute shortage of nursing assistants.

Find a school

CNA certificate programs are offered at approximately 25 community colleges, technical colleges, and vocational schools in Washington. The state’s vast network of CNA schools – which includes North Seattle College and South Seattle College, Tacoma Community College, and Clark College in Vancouver – covers all major metropolitan areas. After gaining experience in the workplace, many CNAs choose to pursue higher levels of education, which could ultimately qualify them to become LPNs or RNs.

For more information on certified nursing assistant training in Washington, please consult our detailed guide below to the state’s CNA certificate programs.