CNA Classes in Mississippi | Certified Nursing Assistant Training Programs

Mississippi State Department of Health

CNA Classes & Training Programs in Mississippi

The Magnolia State | Start Your Healthcare Career in as Little as 4-8 Weeks

Find Programs Near You How to Get Certified

Minimum Training Hours

$135

State Exam Fee

$31,000

Average Annual Salary

4-8

Weeks to Complete

About CNA Certification in Mississippi

Begin Your Healthcare Journey in The Magnolia State

Mississippi's healthcare sector presents extraordinary opportunities for aspiring Certified Nursing Assistants throughout the Magnolia State. From the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson and Mississippi Baptist Medical Center to regional healthcare systems serving Gulfport, Hattiesburg, Tupelo, Biloxi, and Meridian, CNAs are essential to delivering compassionate patient care across Mississippi's diverse communities. The state requires 75 hours of training regulated by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH), providing efficient preparation that allows candidates to enter the healthcare workforce in just 4-8 weeks through programs at community colleges, vocational schools, and healthcare facilities statewide.

The Magnolia State faces the nation's largest projected CNA shortage—demand is expected to exceed supply by 27.53% by 2028—creating unprecedented job opportunities for qualified nursing assistants. With 17.6% of Mississippi's population aged 65 and older, the demand for skilled caregivers continues to grow rapidly across hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home health agencies. Major employment centers include the Jackson metropolitan area, the Gulf Coast region (Gulfport-Biloxi-Pascagoula), Hattiesburg, Tupelo, and Columbus, with opportunities throughout Mississippi's urban and rural communities. Mississippi's significantly lower cost of living means your CNA salary stretches further than in more expensive states, while clear career pathways from CNA to LPN and RN through excellent community colleges like Hinds, Pearl River, and Mississippi Gulf Coast make the Magnolia State an ideal place to launch your healthcare career.

Just 75 hours required—fast-track your career start
Highest projected CNA demand in the nation
Lowest cost of living stretches your salary further
Many free training programs through nursing homes

Quick Facts

Training Hours Required 75 Hours

Classroom/Lab Hours 59 Hours

Clinical Hours 16 Hours (Minimum)

Exam Format Written + Skills

Exam Fee $135

Regulatory Body MS Department of Health

Registry MS Nurse Aide Registry

Browse CNA Schools in Mississippi

Explore our directory of Mississippi State Department of Health-approved nursing assistant training programs. Filter by location, cost, and program type to find the perfect fit for your career goals.

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Certification Process

How to Become a CNA in Mississippi

Complete State-Approved Training

Enroll in a 75-hour Nurse Aide Training Program (NATP) approved by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH). Mississippi's curriculum includes classroom and laboratory instruction covering nursing fundamentals, infection control, patient safety, communication skills, residents' rights, and patient care principles, plus a minimum of 16 hours of supervised clinical practice in licensed healthcare facilities such as nursing homes, hospitals, or assisted living centers. Training is available through Mississippi's excellent community college system—including Hinds Community College in Jackson, Pearl River Community College in Poplarville, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College in Gulfport, Holmes Community College in Grenada, East Mississippi Community College in Mayhew, and Itawamba Community College in Tupelo—as well as vocational schools, healthcare facilities, and private training centers across the state. Full-time programs typically complete in 4-6 weeks with daily intensive classes, while part-time options accommodate working students over 6-8 weeks with evening or weekend schedules. You'll master essential skills including vital signs monitoring, assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), patient transfers and positioning, infection prevention protocols, emergency response procedures, and person-centered care principles. Upon successful completion, your training facility will enter your information into the TestMaster Universe (TMU) system for exam registration.

Pass the State Competency Exam

After completing training, you'll take the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam administered by D&S Diversified Technologies - HDMaster. The exam consists of two mandatory components: a written or oral knowledge test with 70 multiple-choice questions (60 scored, 10 unscored pretest items) covering nursing skills, infection control, safety procedures, communication techniques, residents' rights, and patient care fundamentals (you need 70% to pass), and a hands-on clinical skills demonstration where you'll perform 5 randomly selected nursing skills from a list of 23 possible tasks. Skills may include proper handwashing, measuring vital signs accurately, assisting with mobility and transfers using safety equipment, providing personal hygiene care, catheter care, or range of motion exercises. The written exam allows 2 hours for completion, while the skills test typically takes 30-45 minutes. An oral exam option is available for candidates who have difficulty reading English, consisting of 60 multiple-choice questions and 10 reading comprehension items. You must pass both sections to earn certification—if you pass one component but fail the other, you only need to retake the failed portion. Mississippi allows three testing attempts within two years of training completion; if you fail all three, you must complete training again. The current exam fee is $135 for both sections. Testing is available at regional sites throughout Mississippi, including locations in Jackson, Gulfport, Hattiesburg, Tupelo, and other cities, with remote proctoring available for the knowledge exam.

Complete Background Check & Registry Enrollment

Before beginning CNA employment in Mississippi, you must complete a background check process and be listed on the Mississippi Nurse Aide Registry. Mississippi requires background screening to ensure the highest standards of patient safety in healthcare settings. Most healthcare employers coordinate the background check process as part of their hiring procedures, though requirements may vary by facility type and location throughout the state. Once you pass both portions of the competency exam, your results are electronically transmitted to the Mississippi Nurse Aide Registry through the TestMaster Universe (TMU) system and processed within 7-14 business days. You can verify your certification status anytime through the Mississippi Nurse Aide Registry online portal or by calling D&SDT-HDMaster at (888) 401-0462. If you're employed at a nursing facility while completing your training (a common arrangement in Mississippi), you have 120 days from your first day of employment to take and pass both parts of the NNAAP exam and become certified. Nursing homes that participate in Medicare and Medicaid programs are required by federal law to cover the cost of your nurse aide exam and training if you're employed there. With certification complete, you're qualified to work in Mississippi's growing healthcare system, including major institutions like the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC), Baptist Memorial Health Care, Merit Health, North Mississippi Health Services, Singing River Health System, Memorial Hospital Gulfport, and hundreds of nursing homes and home health agencies throughout the Magnolia State.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About CNA Certification in Mississippi

Becoming a CNA in Mississippi typically takes 5-10 weeks from enrollment to certification. Mississippi requires 75 hours of training, including classroom instruction and a minimum of 16 hours of clinical practice, providing efficient preparation for professional nursing assistant careers in the Magnolia State's growing healthcare system. Full-time accelerated programs offered by institutions like Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College in Gulfport (which offers a hybrid program completing in about 2 weeks), Pearl River Community College in Poplarville and Hattiesburg, Hinds Community College in Jackson and Pearl, and East Mississippi Community College in Mayhew can complete training in 4-6 weeks with intensive schedules. Part-time programs extend over 6-8 weeks, offering evening classes (typically 5 PM to 9 PM) to accommodate students with work or family obligations throughout the Jackson metro area, the Gulf Coast, and other Mississippi communities. After completing training, your information is entered into the TestMaster Universe (TMU) system, and you can schedule your state competency exam through HDMaster, typically available within 1-2 weeks at testing centers throughout Mississippi or via remote proctoring for the knowledge exam. Exam results are usually available the same day for both sections, with final certification processing within 7-14 business days once you're added to the Mississippi Nurse Aide Registry. The complete timeline from first day of training to starting your first CNA position generally ranges from 6-12 weeks. Mississippi's streamlined certification process, combined with the state's critical shortage of CNAs and numerous free training opportunities through nursing homes, makes it an excellent place to launch a healthcare career.

CNA training costs in Mississippi range from FREE to $1,500 depending on the institution type and whether you pursue employer-sponsored training. Mississippi's community colleges offer the most affordable options: Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College charges approximately $700 for their hybrid CNA program, Pearl River Community College offers programs ranging from $600-$900, Hinds Community College provides 100-hour programs with flexible payment plans, Itawamba Community College charges around $425, and Holmes Community College offers competitively priced programs with both in-person and hybrid options. Private vocational schools and healthcare training academies typically charge $800-$1,500 but often provide accelerated schedules and flexible scheduling options. Many Mississippi nursing homes offer FREE CNA training programs in exchange for a 6-12 month employment commitment—this "earn while you learn" model is particularly prevalent throughout Mississippi, where facilities are eager to address the state's significant CNA shortage. Federal law requires nursing homes participating in Medicare and Medicaid to cover training and exam costs for employees. Most program fees include textbooks, training materials, and clinical supplies, though you should budget an additional $135 for the state competency exam fee if your employer doesn't cover it. Mississippi residents may qualify for financial assistance through Mississippi Works (workforce development programs), Federal Pell Grants for eligible students, or community college scholarships. Given Mississippi's low cost of living and growing demand for CNAs, training investments typically pay for themselves within the first 1-2 months of full-time employment, making CNA certification an accessible pathway to a stable healthcare career.

Mississippi allows hybrid CNA training where theoretical classroom instruction can be completed online, but hands-on clinical training must be conducted in person at an approved healthcare facility. The Mississippi State Department of Health permits the didactic coursework—including lectures, reading assignments, instructional videos, case studies, and written assessments—to be delivered via distance learning platforms. However, the mandatory minimum of 16 hours of clinical skills training must be completed face-to-face in a licensed nursing home, hospital, or long-term care facility under direct supervision of qualified registered nurse instructors. Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College offers a popular hybrid program where students complete approximately 84 hours of online theory and on-campus training combined with 16 hours of clinical training at local healthcare facilities for around $700. This hybrid model provides valuable flexibility for students managing employment, family responsibilities, or transportation challenges across Mississippi's diverse geography—from the Jackson metro area to the rural Delta region to the Gulf Coast. Several Mississippi institutions including community colleges and private training providers now offer hybrid programs combining online theory modules with weekend or evening clinical rotations at healthcare facilities throughout the state. It's critical to understand that FULLY online CNA programs (100% virtual with no in-person clinical component) are NOT recognized by Mississippi and will not qualify you to take the state competency exam or obtain certification. When researching programs, always verify that the provider is approved by the Mississippi State Department of Health and includes the required supervised clinical training in a licensed healthcare facility. Contact the MSDH Licensure Division at (601) 364-2718 or email Antanikah.Robbins@msdh.ms.gov to verify program approval before enrolling.

The Mississippi CNA competency exam, officially called the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) and administered by D&S Diversified Technologies - HDMaster, consists of two mandatory components that comprehensively test your knowledge and practical nursing skills. The written knowledge test contains 70 multiple-choice questions (60 scored items plus 10 unscored pretest questions used for statistical purposes) covering three major content areas: Physical Care Skills (including Activities of Daily Living at 14%, Basic Nursing Skills at 39%, and Restorative Skills at 8%), Psychosocial Care Skills (Emotional and Mental Health Needs at 11%, Spiritual and Cultural Needs at 2%), and Role of the Nurse Aide (Communication at 8%, Client Rights at 10%, Legal and Ethical Behavior at 4%, and Member of the Health Care Team at 4%). You have 2 hours to complete the exam and need a score of 70% to pass. An oral exam option is available for candidates who have difficulty reading English, consisting of 60 multiple-choice questions and 10 reading comprehension items delivered via audio. After completing the written portion, you'll proceed to the clinical skills evaluation where you'll demonstrate 5 randomly selected nursing procedures from a list of 23 possible skills. Common skills include proper handwashing technique, measuring and recording vital signs with precision (blood pressure, pulse, respiration, temperature), assisting residents with ambulation using safety devices, performing passive range of motion exercises, providing perineal care, assisting with feeding techniques, measuring urinary output, and catheter care. You'll perform these skills while a Nurse Aide Evaluator observes and scores your performance using detailed checklists. You must pass BOTH sections to earn certification. Mississippi allows three testing attempts within two years; failing all three requires repeating training. The exam fee is $135 for both sections. Testing is available at regional sites throughout Mississippi and via remote proctoring for the knowledge exam.

Yes, Mississippi accepts CNA certifications from other states through reciprocity, provided you meet specific requirements. If you hold an active, unexpired CNA certification from another state and are in good standing on that state's nurse aide registry (with no findings of abuse, neglect, or misappropriation of property), you can apply for Mississippi certification by reciprocity through the TestMaster Universe (TMU) system. The reciprocity process requires creating a TMU account, completing the CNA Reciprocity Application online, uploading a copy of your valid U.S. government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport) in PDF or image format, paying the $25 non-refundable reciprocity application fee via Visa or Mastercard, and allowing D&SDT-HDMaster to verify your out-of-state certification directly with your current state's registry. Mississippi requires that your out-of-state training met or exceeded the federal OBRA '87 standards—since most states follow these federal requirements, this is rarely problematic. If additional documentation is needed after your initial submission, you'll have 30 days to respond; failure to respond results in denial and loss of your application fee. The entire reciprocity process typically takes 2-4 weeks from application submission to approval. If your out-of-state certification has lapsed or you don't meet reciprocity requirements, you may need to take the NNAAP exam in Mississippi (one attempt only for reciprocity candidates who are denied—if you fail, you must complete Mississippi NATP training). Once approved, your name will be listed as Active on the Mississippi Nurse Aide Registry, allowing you to work immediately in any licensed healthcare facility throughout the state. It's essential to initiate this process BEFORE beginning employment in Mississippi, as federal regulations prohibit healthcare facilities from hiring CNAs who aren't properly certified. Mississippi's critical CNA shortage and welcoming reciprocity process make it an attractive destination for CNAs relocating from neighboring states like Tennessee, Alabama, Louisiana, and Arkansas.

Maintaining Your Certification

CNA Certification Renewal in Mississippi

How to Renew Your Mississippi CNA Certification

Mississippi CNA certifications are valid for 24 months and must be renewed to remain active on the Mississippi Nurse Aide Registry. To maintain your certification, you must work at least 8 hours as a CNA in a paid nursing or nursing-related position during each 24-month certification period. The renewal process is completed through the TestMaster Universe (TMU) portal, where you'll log in to your account, submit your employer's name and contact information, and TMU will request electronic verification of your employment. The renewal fee is $25, payable online—however, if you're employed by a state-funded facility or a nursing home participating in Medicare/Medicaid programs, your employer may cover this fee.

Mississippi does not require continuing education units (CEUs) for CNA renewal, though facilities may provide in-service training that enhances your skills and career opportunities. If your certification lapses because you haven't worked the required 8 hours within 24 months or your certification has been expired for more than 24 months, you must complete Reactivation by Examination. This process requires applying through the TMU portal, paying $135 for both the knowledge and skills exams, and passing both portions of the NNAAP exam. Importantly, reactivation by examination is a one-time option in Mississippi—if you fail, you must complete a full state-approved NATP training program before being eligible to test again.

It's important to verify your registry status annually by checking the Mississippi Nurse Aide Registry online portal or calling D&SDT-HDMaster at (888) 401-0462. If you change employers—common in Mississippi's healthcare market with numerous hospital systems and nursing facilities—confirm that your new healthcare facility properly reports your employment to maintain your active certification status. CNAs working in multiple states should maintain separate active status in each state independently, as Mississippi's registry operates separately from other state registries. For questions about your specific situation, contact the MSDH Licensure Division at (601) 364-2718 or email health.nurseaide@state.mn.us.

Renewal Fee

$25

Work Requirement

8 Hours/24 Months

CEU Requirement

None Required

Reactivation Cost

$135

Career Opportunities

CNA Job Outlook & Salary in Mississippi

Mississippi's healthcare sector provides exceptional employment prospects for Certified Nursing Assistants, with the state facing the nation's largest projected CNA shortage—demand is expected to exceed supply by 27.53% by 2028. The Magnolia State's aging population (17.6% of residents are 65 and older), expansion of healthcare services, and ongoing workforce challenges create unprecedented demand for qualified CNAs across hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home health agencies. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 11% growth in CNA positions through 2026, with over 13,600 CNAs currently employed statewide. Major employment centers include the Jackson metropolitan area (home to UMMC, Baptist Memorial Health Care, Merit Health, and St. Dominic Hospital), the Gulf Coast region (Memorial Hospital Gulfport, Singing River Health System), Hattiesburg (Forrest General Hospital, Merit Health Wesley), Tupelo (North Mississippi Medical Center), and communities throughout the state.

CNAs in Mississippi earn competitive wages that stretch further due to the state's lowest cost of living in the nation. Entry-level CNAs typically earn $12-14/hour, while experienced CNAs earn $15-19/hour depending on facility type and location. Hospital-based CNAs, particularly those at major institutions like the University of Mississippi Medical Center or Baptist Memorial hospitals, generally earn premium wages compared to long-term care facilities, and night shift differential pay often adds $1-3 extra per hour. The Gulfport-Biloxi-Pascagoula area offers strong wages with top earners reaching nearly $39,000 annually. Mississippi healthcare employers typically provide comprehensive benefits including health insurance, dental and vision coverage, retirement plans, paid time off, and tuition reimbursement for nursing school advancement. Many facilities offer signing bonuses ($500-$2,000) to address critical staffing shortages. The combination of strong job security, competitive wages relative to cost of living, and numerous free training opportunities through nursing homes makes Mississippi an excellent place to build a healthcare career, with clear advancement pathways from CNA to LPN and RN through the state's community college system.

Average CNA Salary in Mississippi

$31,000

per year

Hourly Wage

$14.90/hr

Nearby States