If you’re thinking about becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or Home Health Aide (HHA) in North Carolina, you’re already taking a meaningful step. Whether you’ve cared for a loved one or just feel called to help others, caregiving is a career full of purpose—and in North Carolina, there are a lot of ways to get started.
This guide is here to help you understand your training options, compare schools, see what jobs are out there, and learn how certification works in North Carolina. It’s warm, simple, and packed with real data so you can confidently take the next step in your caregiving journey.
Training Paths in North Carolina
In North Carolina, CNA and HHA training programs are offered through:
- Public community colleges
- Private colleges/universities
- Vocational and career training schools
You’ll find flexible options across the state—some schools offer night classes, part-time training, and hybrid formats to fit your schedule.
Let’s break it down by school type ⤵️
Public & Private Colleges in North Carolina
Community colleges are a great option if you want an affordable program with strong local partnerships. Many public colleges in North Carolina offer Nurse Aide I programs that meet state certification requirements. Some also offer Nurse Aide II and HHA add-on modules.
- Wake Technical Community College (Raleigh) – Offers Nurse Aide I and II programs with clinical hours.
- Central Piedmont Community College (Charlotte) – Multiple campus locations, hybrid formats available.
- Fayetteville Technical Community College (Fayetteville) – Affordable CNA training with good job placement support.
List of Public & Private Colleges with CNA/HHA Programs
Vocational & Career Schools in North Carolina
These schools are great if you’re looking for shorter programs or want to get started quickly. Many focus entirely on healthcare careers, and their schedules are often designed with working adults in mind.
Cities like Durham, Greensboro, Wilmington, and Gastonia all have strong vocational offerings—often in smaller classroom settings with quick turnaround.
Examples include:
- North Carolina Health Careers Institute (Durham)
- Excel Learning Center (Lumberton)
- Divine Health Academy (Charlotte)
List of Vocational & Career Schools with Caregiver Training
CNA vs. HHA in North Carolina: What’s the Difference?
In North Carolina, CNA is the more regulated and standardized path. Most caregiving roles—especially in facilities like nursing homes—require CNA certification.
CNAs (Certified Nursing Assistants) in NC:
- Must complete a state-approved Nurse Aide I program
- Must pass the NC Nurse Aide I Exam
- Are listed in the North Carolina Nurse Aide Registry
- Often work in hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities
HHAs (Home Health Aides):
- In NC, many HHAs are CNAs who receive additional training in home care
- Some private schools offer stand-alone HHA training (usually 40–75 hours)
- HHA roles focus on in-home care, personal assistance, and light housekeeping
What About PCA in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, the role of Personal Care Aide (PCA) is recognized, but it follows a different training and certification path compared to CNAs or HHAs. PCAs typically assist with non-medical care such as bathing, grooming, dressing, meal prep, and companionship—primarily for clients in home settings. Unlike CNAs, PCAs are not required to pass a state exam or be listed on the Nurse Aide Registry. However, if they work for a Medicaid-funded or licensed home care agency, they must complete a state-approved PCA training program, which usually includes 40 hours of instruction and a competency evaluation.
PCA roles are ideal for those looking to start a caregiving career without the full commitment of CNA certification. Many caregivers begin as PCAs and later move into CNA or HHA roles to expand their skills and earning potential. That said, it’s important to choose an employer or agency that provides proper training and ongoing support, especially if you plan to work with vulnerable seniors or clients with mobility needs.
If you’re interested in being a PCA, ask your local agency if they offer in-house PCA training or can recommend a program that meets state guidelines.
Tip: If you’re planning to work in a hospital or nursing facility, CNA is the route to go. If you’re more interested in working inside people’s homes, HHA training might be a good supplement.
Job Market & Salary in North Carolina (as of July 2025)
North Carolina’s aging population continues to drive demand for caregivers. According to recent state labor reports:
- CNA Average Salary:
$33,500/year (or around $16.10/hour) - HHA Average Salary:
$30,000/year (or around $14.45/hour) - Top Hiring Areas:
Charlotte, Raleigh, Greensboro, Durham, and Winston-Salem - Job Growth:
CNA and HHA roles are expected to grow by 18–20% over the next 10 years—faster than most occupations.
Licensing & Certification Steps in North Carolina
For CNAs (Nurse Aide I)
- Complete a state-approved CNA (NA I) training program – at least 75 hours (including clinicals)
- Pass the NNAAP Exam – administered by Credentia in North Carolina
- Get listed on the North Carolina Nurse Aide Registry
You can search or verify your status here: NC DHSR Nurse Aide Registry - Renewal – every 2 years, with at least 8 hours of paid work during the period
For HHAs
- No standalone license for HHA is required in NC unless tied to a Medicare/Medicaid-certified agency
- Must typically complete 40–75 hours of training, including topics like safety, hygiene, and basic caregiving
- Some employers require HHA certification in addition to CNA
Ready to Get Started?
Becoming a caregiver isn’t just a job—it’s a way to serve your community and support families. Whether you want to work in a busy hospital or provide one-on-one care in someone’s home, there’s a path in North Carolina that fits your goals and schedule.
Here’s what you can do next:
- Pick a school near you using the tables above
- Reach out to ask about start dates, class schedules, and payment plans
- Get certified—and start building your caregiving future
You’ve got this. 💙
Disclaimer
Program costs, schedules, and certification rules can change. Always confirm with your chosen school and check with North Carolina’s Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) or other official sources before enrolling.
Sources
- NC Nurse Aide Registry – NCDHHS
- Credentia CNA Testing
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Nursing Assistants
- North Carolina Community College System
- NCWorks Job Market Trends
- Individual school websites (linked in tables)