Trinity Washington University CNA Program

The program includes two required courses:

• NURS 101: Certified Nursing Aide Lecture (3 credits)
  Covers patient care techniques, legal/ethical issues, human development, body systems, and CNA professional standards.
• NURS 102: Certified Nursing Aide Lab/Clinical (3 credits)
  Focuses on hands-on patient care skills in real-world clinical settings, like rehab and long-term care facilities.

Both courses meet District of Columbia Board of Nursing requirements, and students who complete them can sit for the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) certification exam.

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While Trinity doesn’t provide specific start and end dates or hour breakdowns publicly, we do know that classes are held in the evenings and weekends, which is a major benefit for working adults or those with daytime responsibilities. The entire program is designed to be completed within one semester, either in sequence or concurrently.

This flexibility, combined with its stackable credential structure, makes Trinity’s CNA program a solid choice for students who need an education model that fits around life and work.

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One of the standout features of the Trinity CNA program is affordability. While the exact tuition cost isn’t listed publicly for this specific certificate, Trinity promotes itself as having the lowest tuition among private colleges in the area, and many D.C. residents pay little or nothing out of pocket—thanks to a mix of financial aid, scholarships, and workforce development funding.

Students interested in applying should definitely inquire with the admissions team about what funding options are available, especially if they live in D.C. or qualify for workforce aid.

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To apply to the program, students must:

• Score at least 225 on the CASAS Reading GOALS exam
• Pass a background check and drug screen
• Demonstrate at least a 5th grade reading level
• Apply to Trinity Washington University (free application)

Once enrolled, students must maintain a C or better in all courses. Trinity also emphasizes academic advising, so students not meeting academic progress will be offered support to get back on track.

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Clinical rotations take place in local rehabilitation and long-term care facilities, giving students direct, real-world patient care experience. This is especially important for building confidence and readiness for work immediately after certification.

The program is well-connected to D.C.’s healthcare landscape, meaning students will have access to a wide variety of patient populations and care environments. These clinicals are an excellent stepping stone toward employment and are backed by employer-informed curriculum, so students graduate ready for what local healthcare providers actually need.

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One of the most attractive features of this program is how well it transitions into higher education. Unlike many standalone CNA programs that end with certification, Trinity’s CNA certificate:

• Counts toward the AA in Health Services at Trinity
• Serves as a launchpad into the BSN program
• Can be combined with other health programs at Trinity for broader opportunities

If you’re looking to start small but think you might want to become an LPN, RN, or even healthcare administrator later, this program is a strong first move.

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Trinity emphasizes its supportive learning environment. The program features small class sizes, a cohort model, and one-on-one attention from faculty—making it an especially good fit for first-time college students or those returning to education after a break.

You’ll also benefit from working alongside classmates who share your career goals, building a sense of community that continues into the workforce.

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Trinity Washington University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The CNA program is also approved by the District of Columbia Board of Nursing (DCBON). This means your training is recognized both academically and professionally.

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