NGH School of Health Sciences CNA Program

Training is divided into two parts: 60 hours of didactic (classroom) instruction and 36 hours of clinical experience. The curriculum is centered on developing real-world caregiving skills, especially those needed in long-term care and hospital environments.

Students will practice patient bathing, dressing, feeding, toileting, movement, and general comfort measures. A strong emphasis is placed on care for older adults, which aligns well with the job opportunities CNAs typically pursue.

Because the program takes place inside Nashville General Hospital, students are immersed in a clinical environment from day one. That proximity to real healthcare settings gives learners an edge when transitioning into the workforce.

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The program has a tuition cost of $880, and there’s a non-refundable $50 application fee. However, students should plan for additional out-of-pocket expenses, including:

• Textbooks/Resources: Approx. $100
• Liability Insurance: $35
• Criminal Background Check: $50
• Drug Screening: $35
• CPR Certification: Varies (through AHA or Red Cross)
• Uniforms (Maroon scrubs): Cost varies by vendor

While the school does not provide a loan or in-house financing option, it does participate in workforce development programs. Students may be eligible for WIOA funding or SNAP-based educational assistance, both of which can help cover tuition and related costs.

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To be admitted into the NGH CNA program, applicants must complete several steps and meet specific health and safety standards. Here’s what’s required:

• Submit a completed application form with a $50 application fee
• Provide proof of high school diploma or GED
• Pass a criminal background check (student pays the fee)
• Complete a drug screening (student pays the fee)
• Attend a start-date confirmation session, once cleared
• Provide documentation of the following:
  • TB test (within last 3 months) or chest X-ray if TB-positive in the past
  • Tdap booster (within 10 years)
  • MMR (2 doses or proof via titers)
  • Varicella (2 doses or positive titer)
  • Hepatitis B immunization or signed waiver
  • Flu vaccine
  • COVID-19 vaccine (Moderna, Pfizer, or Johnson & Johnson)
  • CPR certification for healthcare providers

These requirements reflect industry standards for anyone working in healthcare settings and are especially important in hospital-based training environments like NGH.

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Students who complete the course will be eligible to take the Tennessee Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation, which is required to be listed on the state CNA registry. The school provides the training hours and structure necessary to meet the exam requirements, although exam registration and scheduling are the student’s responsibility.

There’s no mention of built-in practice testing or exam coaching, so students may need to supplement their studies independently or reach out to instructors for extra prep support.

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The standout feature of this program is its once-a-week format. Classes take place on Saturdays only, for 12 weeks, which makes it one of the few programs in the area tailored specifically for students with weekday responsibilities.

Each class or clinical shift runs 8 hours per Saturday, which means students can complete training without disrupting work schedules. This setup is ideal for working adults, parents, or those seeking a career change while managing other obligations.

New sessions begin every three months, and students are encouraged to call for upcoming start dates. With small class sizes and a hospital-based location, spots can fill up quickly.

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The CNA program is housed within Nashville General Hospital, located at 1818 Albion Street. This gives students direct access to a professional clinical setting and instructors who are actively involved in patient care.

Having a classroom within a functioning hospital allows for seamless integration of theory and practice, as students are regularly exposed to the real demands and expectations of hospital environments. This location also comes with the convenience of accessible public transit and parking, given its central placement in Nashville.

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Although NGH School of Health Sciences doesn’t offer private loans or internal financial aid, it is recognized by the Local Workforce Investment Area, which opens doors for WIOA funding. Students receiving SNAP benefits may also qualify for financial aid under state educational support programs.

This makes the program a viable option for individuals facing economic barriers to education. However, students must apply separately for these resources by contacting local workforce development offices or the American Job Center.

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• Weekend-only schedule makes it highly flexible
• Hospital-based location enhances clinical experience
• Clear structure with consistent start dates every 3 months
• Prepares students directly for state CNA certification
• Reasonable tuition at $880, with additional costs clearly outlined
• Eligible for SNAP/WIOA educational funding

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• No job placement services mentioned
• No in-house financial aid or loan options
• Students must manage several external requirements, including CPR, immunizations, and health documentation
• No weekday or evening class options for those who prefer faster pace
• No guarantee of certification exam coaching or tutoring included in curriculum

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