If you’re looking to jumpstart your career in the healthcare field, you’ve probably noticed that most Certified Nursing Assistant or Geriatric Nursing Assistant programs take anywhere from 6 to 12 weeks to complete. However, if you’re eager to get your certification faster, Baltimore offers some excellent accelerated 4-week programs that can get you trained and ready to work in no time.
These accelerated programs are designed for those who are ready to dive in and commit to an intense, focused learning experience. While standard programs offer a more leisurely pace with classes spread out over several months, accelerated programs condense the same material into a shorter timeframe. This means more hours in the classroom and clinical settings each week, but it also means you’ll be ready to start your new career much sooner.
Whether you’re balancing a busy schedule or simply want to fast-track your entry into the healthcare field, these 4-week programs might be just what you’re looking for.
Accelerated CNA & GNA Programs in Baltimore
Health Focus, Inc.
Health Focus, Inc., located on Belair Road in Baltimore, Maryland, offers a comprehensive CNA/GNA certification program designed to prepare students for various roles in the healthcare industry, including Certified Nursing Assistant, Home Health Aide, and Personal Care Assistant. This program is designed to be swift and thorough, meeting both federal and state training requirements in Maryland.
Program Structure:
- Total Hours: 114.5 clock hours
- Lecture/Theory: 48 hours
- Lab/Practice: 24 hours
- Clinical Experience: 42.05 hours
Key Skills Covered:
- Personal Care and Infection Control
- Psychosocial Needs and Interpersonal Skills
- Basic Nursing, Restorative Skills, and Patient Diet & Nutrition
- Safety, Emergency Procedures, and Documentation
For those interested in a rewarding career in healthcare, this program offers an efficient path to certification, with flexible payment options and a supportive learning environment.
Top Knowledge Healthcare Institute
Top Knowledge Healthcare Institute in Baltimore, Maryland, offers a CNA/GNA certification program that can be completed in as little as 5 weeks. This program is fully approved by the Maryland Board of Nursing and the Maryland Higher Education Commission, ensuring that students receive the essential training required to excel as a Certified Nursing Assistant or Geriatric Nursing Assistant.
Program Structure:
- Total Hours: 115 hours
- Theory: 40 hours
- Laboratory: 35 hours
- Clinical Externship: 40 hours
Training Schedule:
- Daytime Program: 5 weeks, Monday-Thursday (9 am-2:30 pm)
- Evening Program: 5 weeks, Monday-Thursday (5 pm-10 pm)
- Evening/Weekend Program: 6 weeks, Thursday (via Zoom) and Saturday/Sunday (in-person)
Key Skills Covered:
- Basic patient care services, hygiene, and grooming
- Practical skills including transferring, vital sign measurement, and personal care
Enrollment Requirements:
- Photo ID, SS card or Tax ID number, proof of high school diploma or GED, health physical, immunization records, acceptable background check, and CPR certification
Tuition Free Option:
- Eligible Maryland residents may qualify for tuition-free training.
This program offers flexible scheduling options and a fast-paced learning environment, perfect for those ready to start a rewarding career in healthcare.
Which Program Fits You Best?
Top Knowledge Healthcare Institute
Program Fit: Students who would thrive in Top Knowledge Healthcare Institute’s CNA/GNA program are:
- Fast Learners: The program is intensive and condensed into a short duration (5 weeks), making it suitable for individuals who can grasp new concepts quickly and efficiently.
- Highly Motivated and Committed: Due to the demanding schedule that includes additional outside-class assignments each week, students must be highly dedicated and self-motivated.
- Flexible and Adaptable: The program offers various class schedules including day, evening, and weekend options, accommodating students who may have other commitments but can adapt their schedules.
- Ready for Immediate Employment: This program is aimed at quickly preparing students for entry-level healthcare roles, so those eager to start working soon after certification will find it appealing.
- Residents of Maryland: Since the tuition-free option requires Maryland residency, local students looking for financial assistance will benefit significantly.
Health Focus, Inc.
Program Fit: Ideal candidates for the Health Focus, Inc. CNA/GNA program include:
- Career Switchers Looking for Rapid Training: The program’s swift and comprehensive curriculum is designed to quickly equip students with necessary skills, making it ideal for individuals transitioning from other fields who seek prompt employment in healthcare.
- Compassionate and Patient Individuals: The program emphasizes the development of personal care skills, infection control, and other patient-centered competencies, making it suitable for empathetic individuals who are patient and enjoy helping others.
- Students Needing Flexible Payment Options: With available payment plans and participation in the Tolbert grant, this program caters to students who require financial flexibility to manage their education costs.
- Individuals Interested in Diverse Healthcare Settings: Graduates are prepared for a variety of roles in settings ranging from senior care facilities to hospitals, appealing to those seeking diverse job opportunities in healthcare.
Both programs offer accelerated paths to becoming certified nursing assistants, but their specific strengths cater to slightly different student needs based on individual learning styles, financial situations, and career readiness.