The Nurse Aide Program at Medical Learning Center (MLC) in Fairfax, Virginia, is a state-approved training course that prepares students for the CNA certification exam in just 4 weeks (day classes) or 5.5 weekends (weekend format). Priced at $1,050 total, this program includes tuition, books, CPR training, liability insurance, and lab materials—making it one of the more all-inclusive and affordable options in the region. Students receive in-person instruction led by licensed registered nurses, as well as hands-on lab training and clinical experience at a healthcare facility. While MLC does not guarantee job placement, they do assist graduates with resumes, interview prep, and employer referrals. Tuition assistance is available through Virginia’s WIA/WIB programs for qualified residents.
Program Format and Duration
MLC’s CNA program is available in both full-time and weekend formats. The day class schedule includes three weeks of lectures and lab work from 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, followed by a one-week clinical rotation from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Weekend classes are longer in duration, taking place over 5.5 weekends for lecture/lab and 2.5 weekends for clinicals, with similar daily schedules.
The total training consists of 100 hours of lecture/lab work and 40 hours of clinical experience—the standard structure for CNA certification programs in Virginia. While there’s no online format, the in-person structure ensures students are fully prepared for both the state exam and real-world patient care.
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Tuition, Inclusions, and Financial Aid
The total program cost is $1,050, which includes a $50 non-refundable application fee and $1,000 tuition. The fee covers all necessary materials including:
- Textbooks
- CPR certification
- Uniform
- Liability insurance
- Lab supplies
This pricing structure makes MLC’s program a solid value, especially given that many schools charge extra for CPR or lab materials.
While federal financial aid is not available, Virginia residents may qualify for Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIA/WIB) funding. MLC is an approved provider through the Northern Virginia Workforce Investment Board (NVWIB), and students in counties like Fairfax, Arlington, Alexandria, Loudoun, and Prince William can apply through Skills Source Centers for full tuition coverage. An interest-free payment plan is also available directly through the school.
Admissions Requirements
To get started, students must meet several criteria to enroll in the Nurse Aide program:
- Submit a completed application with a $50 non-refundable fee
- Provide a government-issued photo ID
- High school diploma or GED preferred but not required
- Proof of CPR certification and PPD (tuberculosis) test before clinical rotation
- Provide two references
- COVID-19 vaccination card required
Students should be prepared to complete paperwork and gather documentation in advance, especially for clinical clearance. While a diploma isn’t mandatory, students without one should confirm eligibility with the school.
Curriculum and Training Experience
MLC’s CNA curriculum is designed to prepare students to deliver safe, compassionate, and effective patient care under the supervision of licensed nurses or doctors. The program combines traditional lectures with hands-on lab work and real-world experience during clinical rotation in a healthcare facility.
The program is broken into two phases:
- Lecture/Lab – Focuses on foundational knowledge, including anatomy, infection control, ADLs (activities of daily living), patient rights, charting, and basic clinical procedures like vital signs and hygiene support.
- Clinical Rotation – Gives students the opportunity to apply skills directly with patients in a supervised setting. This phase ensures students are ready for the workforce and builds confidence prior to taking the certification exam.
Instruction is led by licensed RNs with experience in the field. According to student reviews, instructors are helpful, knowledgeable, and accessible—many students mentioned feeling prepared and supported throughout the program.
Certification and Career Preparation
Graduates receive a certificate of completion and are eligible to sit for the Virginia Nurse Aide State Certification Exam. Passing this exam allows students to officially become Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), which opens the door to job opportunities in nursing homes, hospitals, assisted living facilities, and home care.
While job placement is not guaranteed, MLC does provide employment assistance to graduates. This includes resume writing help, interview preparation, and referrals to local employers (especially nursing homes and staffing agencies) after students pass the state exam.
Students who want extra help transitioning into their first CNA job will find the support useful, although proactive networking and job searching will still be required.
Student Feedback
MLC receives consistently positive reviews from former students. Many mention passing the state exam on their first attempt, thanks to focused training and access to review materials. Students say the instructors are caring and passionate, often going out of their way to provide one-on-one help. Several reviews also noted that instructors had firsthand experience as state examiners, which provided valuable insights into the test format and expectations.
Weekend students appreciated the schedule flexibility, and the school facilities—such as a student lounge, computers, and clear course materials—were also highlighted as helpful. Some reviews acknowledged that there may be minor administrative hiccups but emphasized that the overall learning experience and career preparation made the program worthwhile.
Job Outlook for CNAs
According to projections from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, job openings for CNAs are expected to grow significantly in the coming years—largely driven by the aging population and the demand for long-term care. CNAs often work in nursing homes, rehab centers, assisted living communities, hospitals, and private home settings.
MLC emphasizes that CNA experience can also be a stepping stone into more advanced nursing roles, such as Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN). Students who want to continue their education in the healthcare field will likely find this program to be a practical starting point.
Facilities and Student Support
The school is located in Fairfax, VA, and provides a calm, accessible environment for adult learners. Students have access to a student lounge, lab space for hands-on practice, and computer stations. Reviewers noted a respectful, welcoming atmosphere and an administration that takes student success seriously.
Instructors seem particularly engaged in helping students overcome barriers to learning—whether it’s English as a second language, testing anxiety, or busy work schedules.
Who Should Consider Medical Learning Center
Medical Learning Center is a strong choice for students seeking affordable, fast-track CNA training in Northern Virginia. It’s especially well-suited for residents in the region who may qualify for WIA/WIB tuition assistance, making the program effectively free. The training is thorough, and the instructors are consistently praised for being supportive, knowledgeable, and engaged.
This program is ideal for motivated learners who are comfortable with in-person instruction and ready to complete a structured, hands-on training course. It’s not designed for remote learners or those needing online flexibility. Still, for those aiming to get certified quickly and begin working in healthcare settings—especially nursing homes or home care—MLC’s CNA program offers solid preparation, strong instructor support, and helpful career transition tools.
Category | Details |
Cost: | $1,050 total (includes application fee, books, CPR, uniform, insurance, and supplies) |
Duration & Clock Hours: | 4 weeks (day classes) or 5.5 weeks (weekend classes); 100 hours lecture/lab + 40 hours clinical |
Evening/Weekend Classes?: | Weekend classes are available; evening classes may be announced—call for details |
Online Classes?: | No |
Job Placement?: | Employment assistance provided (resume help, interview prep, referrals); no guaranteed placement |
Requirements: | Application with fee, photo ID, COVID vaccination card, CPR certification, PPD test before clinicals, two references; high school diploma or GED preferred |
Address: | 2720 Prosperity Avenue, Suite 400-2, Fairfax, VA 22031 |
Phone: | (703) 573-2331 |
Website: | https://www.medicallearningcenterva.com/nurse-aide-program/ |
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