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Free CNA Training
Get hired/trained as a CNA or PCT
in 6 weeks or less!

CNA Classes in Pinellas Park, Florida

Premier Nursing Academy’s free CNA training is offered to candidates in and around the Tampa metro area. After graduates have completed our Florida Board of Nursing-approved CNA program, they have the skills and are provisionally able to work for their matched employer even before passing the Nurse Aide Exam and receiving their CNA license.

Upon passing the exam and completing other state requirements, you’ll be a fully licensed certified nursing assistant in Florida. CNA certification qualifies you for numerous entry-level healthcare career options, including nursing assistants and patient care technicians (PCTs).

Our Pinellas Park location launched in July 2019 as Premier Nursing Academy’s first Florida branch. Our free CNA classes take 6 weeks to complete. We offer three different class schedules to accommodate students with different needs. Consult our class schedule below to see upcoming class start dates and get to know our instructors.

Find Our Free CNA Classes Near You

Our campus in Pinellas Park connects students with employer partners in Tampa and nearby cities, including Pinellas Park, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Largo, and more.

We also offer free CNA classes in Bradenton for students who want to work in Bradenton, Sarasota, Sun City, Palmetto, and the surrounding areas. Additionally, we have more CNA classes in Tampa.

map-section
Premier Nursing Academy – Pinellas Park
6477 102nd Ave.
Pinellas Park, FL 33782

727.300.2464

How to find us: We are located in the Pinellas Place Shopping Center.

Hours
Mon – Thurs,
7:30 AM – 10:30 PM

Apply Now!

Upcoming Class Start Dates

Morning classes
Monday – Thursday
7:30 am – 12:30 pm
Evening classes
Monday – Thursday
5:30 pm – 10:30 pm
Start DateMorningEvening
1/30/2023
3/13/2023
4/24/2023

Apply Now!

About Our CNA Training Program

Premier Nursing Academy’s CNA program provides a combination of classroom and on-site clinical education. This ensures that our graduates are both work-ready to be successful in their careers, as well as meet all state-required training hours needed to sit for certified nursing assistant exams.

Accepted students receive 100% subsidized training and are provisionally able to begin working for their employer as soon as they’re enrolled. In addition, our health provider employer partners gain a new supply of talented and trained employees.

  • Morning, afternoon, and night classes are available
  • 6 weeks training
    Sessions run Monday – Thursday
    5 instructional hours per day
  • 120 instructional hours
    80 hours of classroom-based didactic learning
    40 hours of hands-on clinical-based instruction, mostly conducted on-site with your employer

What is a CNA?

Certified nursing assistants (CNAs) are supervised by registered nurses and provide basic patient care. They help with everything from paperwork to assisting patients with daily needs and activities. CNAs may also take vitals, dispense medications, and aid nurses in simple treatments, among other activities.

Some people choose to be lifelong CNAs, while others use this as the first step in their medical career paths.

How to Become a CNA in Tampa

CNA requirements in Tampa are the same as those across the rest of the state.

Florida is a “challenge state,” meaning you don’t need to complete a certain number of training hours to become a CNA. Instead, you only need to pass a state exam and meet some other basic requirements, including:

  • Completing an approved training program and passing the nursing assistant competency exam; OR
  • Being at least 18 years old with a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent and passing the nursing assistant competency exam; OR
  • Undergoing a program via the Enterprise Florida Jobs and Education Partnership Grant and passing the nursing assistant competency exam

While the “challenge state” factor may sound great, employers generally prefer to hire applicants who completed training before taking their tests.

Are you currently a nursing student in Florida?
Check out our new resource guides made for students in Tampa, St. Petersburg, or Bradenton!

Pros and Cons of Being a CNA in Tampa

Tampa might be the perfect place to start your new healthcare career. It has sunny skies, beautiful beaches, tons of activities, and award-winning hospitals.

The city has a substantial retired community. Still, it has a considerable amount to offer younger residents.

Tampa has bustling art and music scene, with concerts, exhibitions, and festivals year-round. Whether you’re into music, film, food, or something else, there’s sure to be an event for you.

The city is also an excellent spot for sports fans. It has four pro teams:

  • Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL)
  • Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL)
  • Tampa Bay Rays (MLB)
  • Tampa Bay Rowdies (USL)

Those who would rather play sports themselves are also in luck. Thanks to Tampa’s year-round sunshine, you can bike, surf, boat, and fish at any time. Imagine a day at the beach in January—in Tampa, it can happen!

The area isn’t just appealing for its recreational activities, either. Healthcare employment opportunities also make Tampa a great place to be.

O*Net predicts that between 2020 and 2030, CNA jobs in Florida will grow by 10%, which is above the national average of 5%.

The city has many award-winning healthcare facilities like Tampa General Hospital. That facility was named the 71st best hospital in the world by Newsweek.

Wages for CNAs in Tampa are below the national average, at $29,840 per year. But, the city’s cost of living is 5% below the national average.

Housing is also reported to be 11% less expensive in Tampa than in other cities across the country.

Plus, Florida is one of seven U.S. states with no income tax.

Living in a hot climate does have some downsides, though. For instance, running your air conditioning year-round can be expensive. For some, venturing into the humidity can feel overwhelming.

Residents also complain about the lack of mass transit. But, Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties have public bus and trolley systems.

If you’re a fan of sunny skies and want a lower living cost, Tampa could be a great spot for you.

How Much do CNAs make in Tampa and the Surrounding Areas?

Nursing assistants in the Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater area median of $29,240 per year. This is above the state median of $29,070 but below the national median of $30,310. But, as mentioned above, the cost of living in Tampa is lower than average.

CNA salaries in the area range from $23,260 to $37,000. The amount you earn depends on factors like location, facility, and experience level.

For instance, a seasoned CNA in a specialized environment may earn more than a new CNA in a general setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you want to know more? Then, carry on to find answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about training to be a CNA with Premier Nursing Academy.

Are Premier Nursing Academy’s CNA classes really free?

Yes, Premier Nursing Academy’s classes are free! Our training program is free for students. Your employer sponsor pays for the cost of your training.

How long is the Premier Nursing Academy CNA program?

The Pinellas Premier Nursing Academy CNA program takes six weeks to complete. Classes run Monday through Thursday on three schedules to help fit students’ needs.

You can find more information on upcoming campus class schedules here.

What are the requirements for Premier Nursing Academy’s free CNA training program?

As per state regulations, applicants to our CNA program must be at least 18 and have a high school diploma or GED.

After training, your employer may need new CNAs, PCTs, or other workers to undergo a background check and tuberculosis test. They might also have other requirements like drug screens as well.

You can find more information on our program requirements page.

How much does the CNA exam cost?

The typical fee for the Nurse Aide Exam is $155. Your employer covers the cost of your first CNA exam attempt. After that, the exam may be retaken up to two more times at your own expense.

Benefits of Starting Your Healthcare Career With Premier Nursing Academy

Premier Nursing Academy CNA training is the best way to start a nursing career.

We have the best instructors in the field and provide the most enriching, enjoyable learning experience possible. In fact, in 2021, our students had the highest number of first-time exam passers in Florida.

And we do all that without the financial worries that often go with vocational training.

The average national cost of training to be a CNA ranges from $600 to $2,000. At PNA, we’re aware of the financial stress students may face when they should be able to focus on learning. Because of this, we’ve made our program free—meaning you may enter your new career with no student debt.

When you train to be a CNA, you learn skills that can also take you into various other job roles. Some Registered Nurse (RN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs even need students to have CNA licenses!

Medical school is also competitive. The experience and skills gained by becoming a CNA with Premier Nursing Academy may give you a boost.

Apply Now!

Our Employer Partners Have CNA Jobs Near You

We partner with healthcare employers all over the greater Tampa metro area. Depending on your location, there may be multiple facilities to choose from. You can fill out our form to speak with an admissions representative and find out which options are available for you.

Premier Nursing Academy is proud to have placed graduates with these Tampa Bay-area employers and many others.

Brandon
Raydiant of Brandon
701 Victoria Street, Brandon, FL 33510
Clearwater
Clearwater Center
1270 Turner Street, Clearwater, FL 33756
(727) 443-7639
East Bay Rehabilitation Center
4470 East Bay Drive, Clearwater, FL 33764
(727) 530-7100
Highland Pines Rehabilitation Center
1111 South Highland Avenue, Clearwater, FL 33756
(727) 446-0581
Palm Garden of Clearwater
3480 McMullen Booth Rd., Clearwater, FL 33761
(727) 786-6697
Regency Oaks
2770 Regency Oaks Blvd., Clearwater, FL 33759
(727) 791-1500
Seasons Largo Memory Care
4175 East Bay Drive, Clearwater, FL 33764
(727) 330-7898
Westchester Gardens Health & Rehabilitation
3301 McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater, FL 33761
(727) 785-8335
Dunedin
Mease Life
700 Mease Plaza, Dunedin, FL 34698
(727) 738-3000
Gulfport
Boca Ciega Center
1414 59th Street S., Gulfport, FL 33707
(727) 344-4608
Largo
Bardmoor Oaks Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center
9035 Bryan Dairy Road, Largo, FL 33777
(727) 395-9619
Encompass Health Rehab Hospital of Largo
901 Clearwater Largo Road N., Largo, FL 33770
(727) 586-2999
Palm Garden of Pinellas
200 16th Avenue SE, Largo, FL 33771
(727) 585-9377 
Sabal Palms Health & Rehabilitation
499 Alt Keene Road Largo, FL 33771
(727) 586-4211
New Port Richey
Raydiant Health Care of New Port Richey
8417 Old County Road 54, New Port Richey, FL 34653
Palm Harbor
Countryside Rehab and Healthcare Center
3825 Countryside Boulevard N., Palm Harbor, FL 34684
(727) 784-2848
ManorCare Health Services – Palm Harbor
2851 Tampa Road, Palm Harbor, FL 34684
(727) 787-4777
St. Mark Village
2655 Nebraska Avenue, Palm Harbor, FL 34684
(727) 785-2580
Stratford Court of Palm Harbor
45 Katherine Boulevard, Palm Harbor, FL 34684
(727) 787-1500
Pinellas Park
Gateway Care Center
8600 US Highway 19 N., Pinellas Park, FL 33782
(727) 541-7515
Gulf Shore Care Center
6767 86th Avenue N., Pinellas Park, FL 33782
(727) 548-5566
Plant City
Solaris Healthcare – Plant City
701 North Wilder Road, Plant City, FL 33566
(813) 752-3611
Safety Harbor
Living Center of Safety Harbor
1410 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Street N., Safety Harbor, FL 34695
(727) 726-1181
Seminole
Freedom Square Rehabilitation and Nursing Services
10801 Johnson Boulevard, Seminole, FL 33772
(727) 398-0379
Living Center of St. Petersburg
9393 Park Boulevard, Seminole, FL 33777
(727) 391-2200
Palm Garden of Largo
10500 Starkey Road, Seminole, FL 33777
(727) 397-8166
South Pasadena
Gulfport Rehabilitation Center
1430 Pasadena Avenue S., South Pasadena, FL 33707
Springs at Boca Ciega Bay
1255 Pasadena Avenue S., South Pasadena, FL 33701
(727) 828-3500
The Health and Rehabilitation Centre at Dolphins View
1820 Shore Drive S., South Pasadena, FL 33707
(727) 384-9300
St. Petersburg
Bay Pointe Nursing Pavilion
4201 31st Street S., St. Petersburg, FL 33712
(727) 867-1104
Carrington Place of St. Pete Rehab Center
10501 Roosevelt Boulevard N., St. Petersburg, FL 33716
(727) 577-3800
Eagle Lake Nursing & Rehab Center
1100 66th Street N., Petersburg, FL 33710
(727) 345-9331
Egret Cove Center
550 62nd Street S., St. Petersburg, FL 33707
(727) 347-6151
Jacaranda Manor
4250 66th Street N., St. Petersburg, FL 33709
(727) 546-2405
Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital
501 6th Avenue S., St. Petersburg, FL 33701
(727) 898-7451
Kindred Hospital – Bay Area – St. Petersburg
3030 6th Street S., St. Petersburg, FL 33705
(727) 894-8719
Menorah Manor
255 59th Street N., St. Petersburg, FL 33710
(727) 345-2775
Sovereign Healthcare of Pinellas Point
5601 31st Street S., St. Petersburg, FL 33712
(727) 867-6955
Abbey Health and Rehab
7101 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Street N., St. Petersburg, FL 33702
(727) 527-7231
Tampa
Bayshore Pointe Nursing & Rehab Center
3117 West Gandy Boulevard, Tampa, FL 33611
(813) 261-5500
Carrollwood Care Center
15002 Hutchison Road, Tampa, FL 33625
(813) 960-1969
Concordia Village of Tampa
4100 East Fletcher Avenue, Tampa, FL 33613
(813) 977-4950
Fletcher Health and Rehabilitation Center
518 West Fletcher Avenue, Tampa, FL 33612
(813) 265-1600
Gandy Crossing Care Center
4610 South Manhattan Avenue, Tampa, FL 33611
(813) 839-5311
Habana Health Care Center
2916 Habana Way, Tampa, FL 33614
(813) 876-5141
Kindred Hospital – Bay Area – Tampa
455 South Manhattan Avenue, Tampa, FL 33611
(813) 839-6341
Kindred Hospital – Central Tampa
4801 North Howard Avenue, Tampa, FL 33603
(813) 874-7575
Northdale Rehabilitation Center
3030 Bearss Avenue, Tampa, FL 33618
(813) 968-8777
Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center of Tampa
4411 North Habana Avenue, Tampa, FL 33614
(813) 872-2771
Whispering Oaks Health & Rehab
1514 East Chelsea Street, Tampa, FL 33610
(813) 238-6406
Tarpon Springs
Peninsula Care and Rehabilitation Center
900 Beckett Way, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689
Tarpon Bayou Center
515 Chesapeake Drive, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689
(727) 934-4629
Wesley Chapel
AdventHealth Wesley Chapel
2600 Bruce B Downs Boulevard Wesley Chapel, FL 33544
813-929-5000
Blue Heron Health and Rehabilitation Center
5085 Eagleston Boulevard, Wesley Chapel, FL 33544
813-454-0513
Zephyrhills
Heartland of Zephyrhills
38220 Henry Drive, Zephyrhills, FL 33542
(813) 788-7114

Apply Now!

Admissions At a Glance

1. Fill out an admissions inquiry form
Submit a form with basic contact info and our admissions team will be in touch.

Get Started

2. Complete an application
Your admissions representative will explain what other info to provide to meet program requirements.
3. Match with an employer partner
Our team will set up interviews so that you can find the best match for your post-graduation job.
4. Submit supplemental paperwork
Once you’re sending in some final paperwork, you’re almost ready to start at Premier Nursing Academy.
5. Start class
Get ready for Day One of your new life and career.

Meet Our Team

Soyini Morris, LPN, BA |Instructor

Soyini, an LPN of 11 years, became a member of the team at Premier Nursing Academy – Pinellas Park in 2020. Before becoming an instructor, she spent time as a disease management nurse and diabetes educator…

READ MORE

Evelyn Haus|Recruitment Specialist

Though she’s a recent addition to the Premier Nursing Academy team, Evelyn is not new to working with students. She has spent a lot of time …

READ MORE

Student Testimonials

“It’s the best opportunity I’ve ever received. Without Premier Nursing Academy I wouldn’t be able to be in school because I can’t afford it. Jump on this opportunity!”
– Darbi, Tampa campus
“It’s a good program with great teachers who actually care that you get and understand what you’re learning and will go above and beyond.”
– Allyssa, Tampa campus
“I am excited about starting a career as a CNA. Prior to this program, I was struggling but I am confident that I will be a great CNA.”
– Trisha, Tampa campus
“Premier Nursing Academy is the best foot in the door experience in the health care field.”
– Brianna, Tampa campus
“It’s fun, it’s a fairly simple class to do and I definitely think it’s an amazing stepping stone into a great career.”
– Shelby, Tampa campus
“I used to babysit and I would always be home, but now I’m meeting new people and doing something to start my career.”
– Ashley, Tampa campus

Get Started

Featured Employers

Filed Under: Florida

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Premier Nursing Academy
Bradenton
5720 14th St. W
Bradenton, FL 34207
941.217.7360
Premier Nursing Academy
Pinellas Park
6477 102nd Ave.
Pinellas Park, FL 33782
727.300.2464

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