If you’re looking for free CNA programs in the Pittsburgh area, there are a few excellent options to consider. Each program offers unique benefits, including free tuition, job placement, and hands-on training, making them great alternatives to traditional CNA schools. Below is a brief overview of each program, followed by detailed information about costs, schedules, and other key details.
- Presbyterian SeniorCare
Offers a five-week paid training program, allowing students to become CNAs without tuition costs while earning full-time wages during training. - Pittsburgh Job Corps Center
Provides an eight-month CNA program with free training, job placement support, and additional certifications like CPR, without requiring a post-graduation work agreement.
Explore each program further to learn about their costs, duration, class schedules, and locations in the detailed summaries provided.
Presbyterian SeniorCare
Presbyterian SeniorCare offers a “free” CNA training program through paid training that allows students to become certified without paying tuition. Participants are hired as CNA trainees and receive full-time wages during their training. All costs for the training, including exam fees, are fully covered by Presbyterian SeniorCare, making it an affordable alternative to traditional CNA programs.
The five-week program includes classroom instruction, lab work, and hands-on clinical training. Classes run Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Students are expected to wear clean scrubs and maintain professionalism throughout the program. After completing the training and passing the certification exam, graduates are offered full-time CNA positions within Presbyterian SeniorCare’s care communities.
Offered in a five week timeline, this is the fastest free CNA training option in the Pittsburgh area.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free |
| Program Duration | 5 weeks |
| Class Schedules | Mon – Fri, 7 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. |
| Website | Presbyterian SeniorCare CNA Training |
| Location | 1215 Hulton Road, Oakmont Pennsylvania 15139 |
| Phone | (412) 828-5600 |
| Online Classes | No |
Pittsburgh Job Corps Center
The free CNA program at Pittsburgh Job Corps Center is an eight-month, in-person training that prepares students for the certified nurse assistant exam. The curriculum focuses on practical skills such as patient care, vital signs monitoring, and assisting with daily living activities. Students earn a CNA license and additional certifications, including CPR and bloodborne pathogens.
The program also meets state requirements and serves as a pathway to the Job Corps’ Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program. Students receive support throughout their training, including help with meeting academic and state requirements. Upon completion, graduates are qualified to work in healthcare settings like hospitals, nursing homes, and home health care agencies.
The program duration of 8 months may not be appealing to many, however it is the only free CNA program in the Pittsburgh area that provides job placement assistance and doesn’t come with a work agreement – tying the student to a particular employer for an agreed period of time.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free |
| Program Duration | ~8 months |
| Class Schedules | In person, schedule varies |
| Website | Pittsburgh Job Corps |
| Location | 7175 Highland Dr, Pittsburgh, PA 15206 |
| Phone | (412) 441-8700 |
| Online Classes | No |
Our Recommendation
Both Presbyterian SeniorCare and Pittsburgh Job Corps Center are great training opportunities for individuals seeking free CNA classes in the Pittsburgh area.
Presbyterian SeniorCare provides a shorter, five-week program with paid training and immediate job placement within their care communities, making it ideal for those looking to work as a CNA as quickly as possible. On the other hand, Pittsburgh Job Corps Center offers a more extended eight-month program that includes additional certifications and job placement assistance, without requiring graduates to commit to a specific employer.
We recommend reaching out to each program directly to learn more about their specific offerings and upcoming training schedules. Factors such as commuting distance, job placement options, and additional training opportunities may influence which program is the best fit for your individual needs and career goals.