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Basic Nurse Aide Preparation

Become a CNA in one semester or less at TCC

Employment opportunities for Certified Nurse Aides (CNAs) are expected to grow 18% nationally between now and 2024, and the demand is even greater in Hampton Roads.

You can join the CNA ranks in just weeks through Tidewater Community College’s Basic Nurse Aide Preparation Training. 

Successful completion of course work qualifies you to sit for the National Nurse Aide Assessment Certification exam, which leads to the Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) credential.

Students are encouraged to take the 2 courses simultaneously, meaning you can complete the training in just 8 or 16 weeks. Most who complete this training are hired immediately.

CNAs provide basic nursing care to individuals who are temporarily or permanently unable to care for themselves. Duties range from assisting with activities of daily living (ADLs) and collecting vital signs to assisting nurses with patient care.

Frequently asked questions

Basic Nurse Aide Preparation is offered on TCC’s Virginia Beach and Portsmouth campuses. You will also gain on-the-job experience at clinical sites located throughout Hampton Roads.

TCC’s Job Skills Training Program (JSTP) provides comprehensive job training and placement services for those with barriers to employment.  Its CNA training is offered on the Norfolk Campus.

TCC offers 8-week and 16-week Basic Nurse Aide Preparation courses. 

Tuition is $1,267.70 for the 2017-2018 academic year. Additional costs include uniforms, shoes, stethoscope, testing fees and a criminal background check.

First, apply to TCC and complete the program application. After you have been admitted, establish your myTCC account and proceed with class registration and payment.

Help is here for you! Contact the TCC Enrollment Team at 757-822-1111 or enroll@tcc.edu.

Basic Nurse Aide Preparation is not eligible for federal student financial aid. You can pay with cash, check or credit card. Our payment plan lets you spread your tuition over several payments.

  • Call the nurse-aide info line: 757-822-7255.
  • Attend an open house at the Regional Health Professions Center on the Virginia Beach Campus. They are held on the third Thursday of each month from 3 to 4 p.m.

Contact Rita Bouchard, nursing pathways program coordinator, at rbouchard@tcc.edu or 757-822-2329