Frederick Community College

What you'll study

The program is composed of the following courses:

• CAH145 or ADE646 – Foundations for Healthcare Careers
• CAH132 – Certified Nursing Assistant Part I
• CAH133 – Certified Nursing Assistant Part II
• CAH190 – Certified Nursing Assistant – Clinicals

Instruction includes CNA/GNA role responsibilities, basic patient care skills, taking and recording vital signs, infection control, safety, and disease processes. The format is hybrid with required in-person clinicals and online/in-person class components. Length is five months with day and evening options.

Entry requirements

• Be at least 16 years old at registration.
• English reading and listening skills; free Accuplacer is available to check skills.
• Physical exam before clinical start.
• Proof of negative TB test and current vaccines including COVID-19.
• Current AHA Basic Life Support CPR card or registration for SAF157 CPR Basic Life Support.
• Participation in a background investigation that includes fingerprinting and drug testing (costs included in program fees).
• Students may request transfer of up to 25% of total Certificate contact hours from accredited prior learning; course substitutions are not permitted and completion is competency-based.
• CAH145 may be waived with current certifications/licenses such as CNA, CMA/CCMA, LPN, RN, EMT-B/I, CRT, AEMT, or Paramedic. SAF157 CPR may be waived with a current AHA BLS card valid through program end date.

Career prospects

On passing the Maryland Board of Nursing CNA exam you are listed on the Maryland CNA Registry, a requirement for employment at most licensed nursing facilities. Typical CNA duties include assisting patients with bathing, dressing and mobility, supporting nutrition and hydration, measuring and recording vital signs, and observing and reporting condition changes. FCC cites U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024) figures of 211,800 annual job openings and a median annual wage of $40,000; the program notes more than 1,400 employers in Maryland as potential employers.

Scholarships & funding angle

Courses are non-credit Workforce Training and not eligible for federal financial aid. Estimated tuition and fees are up to $3,750 (subject to change); a $15 annual non-refundable registration fee applies at first registration, and residency fees vary. Certification fees are included in program costs; textbooks and software are purchased via the FCC Bookstore. FCC offers CEWD scholarships, workforce development funding, program-specific aid, and payment-plan options; prospective students should review financial-assistance resources and submit a Financial Assistance Request Form if needed.