Knoxville TN CNA Program Overview
Knoxville TN offers multiple CNA training pathways through community colleges, technical centers, and hospital-based academies. Programs typically require 4 to 12 weeks of instruction and combine classroom theory with supervised clinical hours. The Tennessee Nurse Aide Registry maintains the official list of state-approved training programs and tracks completion and certification rates.
Most Knoxville programs require a high school diploma or GED, a background check, a physical exam, and immunization records before enrollment. Tuition ranges from about $1,000 to $3,500 depending on the institution, with additional costs for textbooks, uniforms, and certification exams. Some providers offer financial aid, scholarships, or employer reimbursement for qualifying students.
Top Accredited CNA Schools and Training Sites in Knoxville
Pellissippi State Community College offers a state-approved nurse aide program through its Workforce and Community Education division, with classroom instruction and clinical placements in local healthcare facilities. The program prepares students for the Tennessee Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation and aligns with federal OBRA requirements.
Northeast Tennessee State College operates a technical nursing assistant program that includes classroom, lab, and clinical rotations. The curriculum covers infection control, vital signs, patient mobility, communication skills, and safety procedures. Graduates receive a certificate and are eligible to sit for the state competency exam.
Certification, Job Outlook, and Salary Data for CNAs in Knoxville
After completing a state-approved program, candidates must pass the Tennessee Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation, which includes a written or oral knowledge test and a skills demonstration. The exam is administered by Prometric, and results determine placement on the Tennessee Nurse Aide Registry. Employers such as Covenant Health, Tennova Healthcare, and Kindred Hospital Knoxville regularly hire certified nurse aides.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects steady demand for nursing assistants nationwide, with Tennessee facilities reporting ongoing hiring needs in hospitals, long-term care centers, and home health agencies. In the Knoxville metro area, CNA wages typically range from $15 to $20 per hour, depending on experience, shift differentials, and employer type. The Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development provides current labor market data and job postings for nurse aide roles in the region.