Finding a fast-track CNA program in the Maryland–DC metro area can feel overwhelming—especially if you’re trying to start work quickly and balance other responsibilities. Many programs take months, but a handful of local schools offer CNA training that can be completed in just 4 weeks.
Four top options stand out for speed and flexibility:
1. The Nursing Assistant Academy
This CNA training program runs 4 weeks and consists of 124 total hours, including 62 hours of classroom instruction, 22 hours of lab training, and 40 hours of clinical experience in a licensed healthcare facility. Classes are held Monday through Friday, with day, evening, and weekend options. Day sessions run 8:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m., while evening classes go from 3:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. Weekend classes are also available during daytime or evening hours.
Tuition is $950, plus a $105 fee for the optional GNA exam. Students must be at least 17 years old and meet several entry requirements, including a high school diploma or entrance exam, liability insurance, immunization records, and CPR certification. All admission documents must be submitted before the program begins.
Graduates are eligible to sit for the Maryland CNA certification exam and may add GNA certification through Pearson Vue after passing. The program is approved by the Maryland Board of Nursing and MHEC.
| Category | Details |
| Duration | 4 weeks (124 total hours: 62 classroom, 22 lab, 40 clinical) |
| Format | In-person with classroom, lab, and clinical training |
| Schedules | Day: Mon–Fri, 8:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.; Evening: Mon–Fri, 3:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m.; Weekend: Sat & Sun, 8:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. or 3:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. |
| Address | 5811 Baltimore Ave #101, Riverdale, MD 20737 |
| Phone | (240) 770-8251 |
2. Morning Star Academy
The CNA program at Morning Star Academy runs for 4 weeks, with morning classes from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and evening classes from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Training includes classroom instruction, hands-on lab work, and clinical rotations at a local long-term care facility.
Students are taught infection control, CPR, taking vital signs, assisting with personal care, mobility support, and dementia care. The curriculum meets Maryland Board of Nursing requirements and includes skills practice, job fair access, and a review day for the state exam.
Applicants must be at least 18 years old and submit a high school diploma or pass an Ability to Benefit exam, along with required health documentation and background checks. Graduates test for CNA and GNA certification onsite, removing the stress of an unfamiliar testing location. Course materials, clinical supplies, and exam prep are included in the training package.
| Category | Details |
| Duration | 4 weeks |
| Format | In-person with classroom, lab, and clinical training |
| Schedules | Morning: Mon–Fri, 8:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.; Evening: Mon–Fri, 4:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m. |
| Address | 101 Lakeforest Blvd. Suite 402, Gaithersburg, MD 20877 |
| Phone | 301-977-7393 |
3. Compassionate Academy
The CNA program at Compassionate Academy runs 4 weeks for weekday classes or 10 weeks for weekend-only training. Weekday sessions are held Monday through Friday, with a morning option from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and an evening option from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Weekend classes meet Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Sundays from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
The program includes classroom and lab instruction under the supervision of experienced clinical instructors. Students are trained in infection control, personal care, anatomy and physiology, communication, and basic nursing skills. Upon completion, graduates are eligible for Maryland Board of Nursing certification.
To enroll, applicants must provide a high school diploma or GED, social security or tax ID, and valid photo ID. Prior to graduation, students must also complete a health certification, fingerprinting, and purchase a uniform. Modern training facilities and equipment support hands-on learning.
| Category | Details |
| Duration | 4 weeks (weekday classes) or 10 weeks (weekend-only classes) |
| Format | In-person with classroom, lab, and clinical training |
| Schedules | Weekday: Mon–Fri, 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. or 4:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m.; Weekend: Sat 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m., Sun 1:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. |
| Address | 7241 Hanover Pkwy Suite C&D, Greenbelt, MD 20770 |
| Phone | (301) 332-9699 |
🔍 Easily Compare CNA Programs
We’ve handpicked top CNA programs in Washington DC and the surrounding DMV area—including accelerated, part-time, and even online options—to help you find the right fit, faster.
4. Fomen Nursing Assistant Training Academy
The CNA program at Fomen Nursing Assistant Training Academy runs for 1 month and is offered at both the Hyattsville and Glen Burnie campuses. Students can choose from morning, evening, or weekend schedules depending on availability and campus. Training includes classroom instruction, lab practice, and hands-on clinical experience in a nearby facility.
Course content covers patient safety, infection control, emergency care, personal care skills, body mechanics, and chronic and acute health conditions. Clinical topics also include dementia care, hospice, rehabilitation, and communication with diverse populations.
To apply, students must be at least 18 years old and submit a high school diploma or pass a basic skills entrance exam. Additional requirements include a physical exam, immunizations, and a recent TB test. A $25 application fee is required.
Scholarships are available for qualifying students through Maryland’s workforce development centers. Free books are offered as part of a current promotion.
| Category | Details |
| Duration | 1 month |
| Format | In-person with classroom, lab, and clinical training |
| Schedules | Morning, Evening, and Weekend options available (varies by campus) |
| Address | 7411 Riggs Road, Suite 210, Hyattsville, MD 20783 and 7452 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd., Suite 201A, Glen Burnie, MD 21061 |
| Phone | Hyattsville: (301) 328-0423 / Glen Burnie: (410) 553-4068 |
What We Think
If you’re looking for an accelerated CNA program in the Maryland–DC metro area, you’ve got solid options—but what’s best depends on your goals, your schedule, and how much support you want during and after training.
Fastest Path:
If speed is your top priority, Morning Star Academy and The Nursing Assistant Academy both offer 4-week programs with day and evening options. Morning Star includes extras like job fairs, tutoring, and an on-site testing center, which can make a real difference if you’re nervous about the exam. Nursing Assistant Academy also moves quickly and has weekend options, which gives it a slight edge for people juggling other responsibilities.
Most Flexible:
Compassionate Academy wins for flexibility. It’s one of the few programs that offers a weekend-only 10-week option, perfect if you’re working full-time during the week. If weekday availability isn’t possible for you, this could be your best bet—even if it takes a little longer.
Affordability and Support:
Fomen Nursing Assistant Training Academy stands out for offering scholarship access through the Maryland Higher Education Commission. It also has two campuses (Hyattsville and Glen Burnie) and runs frequent class start dates. That’s ideal if you need help paying for school or don’t want to wait months for a new session.
Here’s the real key: Call each school directly. Ask questions like:
- What’s included in the tuition?
- Do they help with job placement after graduation?
- Are there payment plans or scholarships?
- How often do students pass the state exam on the first try?
The way a school answers can tell you a lot. If they’re patient, clear, and helpful—great sign. If they rush you or are vague? Might not be the best fit.
Take the time to compare. Even though the training lasts just a few weeks, choosing the right program now can affect your job opportunities, exam success, and confidence in the field.