Program Partners
This program is offered in partnership by the Cambridge Community Learning Center and Quincy College.
CNA Training Program for Fluent English Speakers
Are you interested in a career in healthcare? The Community Learning Center's Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Training Program offers hands-on experience and education to help you start a career as a healthcare professional. The program is offered in partnership with Quincy College.
This program is for people who live in Cambridge and are fluent in English. There is one session each year in the spring.
Information Session and Placement Test
We are accepting applications for the Spring 2027 program. Come to an information session to learn more!
The deadline to apply is January 20, 2027.
Sign Up for an Information Session
To Apply:
- You must live in Cambridge.
- You must be able to legally work in the United States. You must be able to show documentation of work authorization, permanent residency (green card holder) or U.S. citizenship.
Anyone who lives in Cambridge is welcome to apply. We give priority to members of the American-born Black community.
Program Schedule
Classes are in person.
- One session per year in the Spring.
- CNA prep classes meet on Mondays and Wednesdays at the Community Learning Center (5 Western Ave.) from 9:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.
- Clinical classes meet at Quincy College.
The CNA Training Program Provides:
- CNA prep classes
- Access to an online course
- Job readiness classes to help prepare for a career in healthcare
- Alzheimer's / Dementia Care training
- Free registration for the Massachusetts State Nursing Exam to become state-certified nursing assistant
Program Graduates Earn:
- Home Health Aide (HHA) Certificate
- CPR/AED Certificate
- Nursing Assistant Training Program Certificate of Completion
Questions? Contact Roselys Esteve at resteve@cambridgema.gov or call/text 857-267-3308.
The Community Learning Center (CLC) also offers a CNA Training program for people learning English. Learn more.
Questions and Answers
Do I need a high school diploma to participate in the training program?
No, you do not need a high school diploma.
When does the program start?
We offer one session each year in the spring. The session starts in early March and ends in mid-June.
Can I take classes online?
No, you must attend classes in-person on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday during the day.
Is the program free?
Yes. This program is free for participants.
CLC pays for all fees. Required materials are provided. This includes:
- Course materials
- Scrubs
- Exam fee to take the Massachusetts Nurse Aide Certification exam
- Access to a Chromebook to study
How long is the program?
The program is four months. If you enroll in the program, you must be able to attend for all four months.
The CNA prep classes meet on Mondays and Wednesdays at the Community Learning Center (5 Western Ave.) from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. The clinical classes meet at Quincy College.
I don’t live in Cambridge. Can I still participate?
No, you must live in Cambridge to participate.
We give priority to members of the American-born Black community.
If you don’t live in Cambridge, you can find a CNA training program near you through the MA Adult Education Help Desk.
The Community Learning Center (CLC) also offers a CNA Training Program for people learning English.