Florida State College at Jacksonville

Program Overview

Includes 40-hour clinical rotation, hands-on labs, and access to a digital credential to showcase certification to employers
Hybrid CNA program that combines online coursework with in-person labs and clinicals, offered through a respected public college
Total program cost of $1,228 with scholarships, financial aid referrals, and tuition installment plans available

Comprehensive CNA Training from a Regionally Accredited Institution

Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) offers a well-rounded, professionally designed Nursing Assistant (CNA) training program for students seeking a reliable, career-ready pathway into healthcare. As a public institution, FSCJ’s program is not only affordable and reputable, but also structured to meet the expectations of the Florida Board of Nursing and regional employers. The curriculum emphasizes real-world skill development through a blend of online learning, classroom instruction, and clinical experience.

Program Structure and Class Format

FSCJ’s CNA training is split into two sequential courses:

Basic Healthcare Worker (CCE 0796) – This foundational course introduces students to healthcare systems, safety, communication, legal and ethical responsibilities, infection control, and basic healthcare math and science. It is a prerequisite for the second course and costs $429.
Nursing Assistant (HED 0101) – The primary CNA training component costs $799 and builds directly on the first course. It focuses on hands-on care practices, interpersonal skills, and preparing students for employment in various healthcare settings. Training includes simulation labs, classwork, and a 40-hour clinical rotation with the option to use an FSCJ-approved site or a self-selected site.

The program is offered in a hybrid format, allowing students to complete part of their coursework online while participating in in-person labs and clinicals on FSCJ campuses. Evening classes (e.g., Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:00–9:00 PM) make the program accessible to working adults or caregivers needing a flexible schedule.

Admissions Requirements

To enroll in the program and be eligible to take the Florida Board of Nursing’s CNA exam, students must:

Be at least 18 years old
Be a U.S. citizen or legal immigrant
Possess a high school diploma or GED
Pass a Level 2 background check and drug screening

Students must complete the Basic Healthcare Worker course prior to enrolling in the Nursing Assistant course.

Program Costs and Financial Aid Options

The total cost of both program components is $1,228. FSCJ offers flexible tuition installment plans and refers students to external financial assistance programs. Options include:

Elizabeth Baptista Carrero Future CNA Scholarship – Contact FSCJ staff for details and application
CareerSource TANF/SNAP E&T Program – May provide support for low-income students
Goodwill A-STEP Program – Designed for working adults seeking career advancement
Lutheran Services – Assists refugees and international students

Students must also budget for required materials, which may include scrubs, stethoscope, blood pressure cuff, two-hand wristwatch, and digital resources such as Cengage MindTap access and textbooks.

Learning Materials and Resources

Required instructional materials include:

Nursing Assistant: A Nursing Process Approach textbook (11th Edition)
Cengage Unlimited Subscription for eTextbooks and interactive online content
Simulation tools and lab access
Optional purchases through Meridy’s for scrubs using the FSCJ student code “FSCJ267”

These materials support both online and in-person learning, giving students access to consistent, up-to-date CNA training aligned with current healthcare standards.

Clinical Experience and Certification Readiness

A defining feature of the FSCJ program is the 40-hour clinical rotation, which allows students to apply learned skills in a supervised, real-world healthcare environment. Whether students choose an FSCJ-designated site or arrange their own, this requirement ensures every graduate is work-ready and experienced with patient interaction, safety protocols, and core CNA responsibilities.

Upon successful completion of both courses, students receive a Certificate of Completion and are eligible to sit for the Florida CNA exam. Additionally, FSCJ issues a digital credential (badge) that students can share on professional platforms such as LinkedIn or with potential employers as proof of achievement.

Instructors and Support Services

FSCJ’s CNA instructors are licensed healthcare professionals who combine classroom teaching with real clinical expertise. Students benefit from their mentorship, structured course materials, and access to support staff who assist with registration, clinical placement, and exam readiness.

While the program does not advertise a dedicated job placement service, FSCJ’s reputation and connections within the Jacksonville medical community offer indirect career advantages for graduates.

What to Expect After Graduation
Graduates of the Nursing Assistant Training program at FSCJ will be qualified to work in long-term care facilities, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, home health agencies, and more. The CNA role is often a stepping stone to more advanced careers, and FSCJ’s program equips students with the foundational knowledge needed to transition into LPN or RN programs in the future.

Program Information	Details
Cost	$1,228
Program Duration	Varies (two courses with specific class dates)
Class Schedules	Spring: 4/2/2024 – 5/2/2024, Summer: 6/25/2024 – 7/27/2024
Prerequisites	No specific prerequisites mentioned
Certification Eligibility	Eligible for the Florida CNA Certification Exam after completion
Location	101 W State St, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
Phone	(904) 357-8910
Email	[email protected]
Website	FSCJ
Job Placement	No
Online Classes?	Yes (Hybrid options available)
Free Classes?	No

This program is a good fit for:

Students who want a hybrid training format that balances flexibility with hands-on instruction
Adults seeking an accredited, career-oriented pathway into nursing and healthcare
Learners who need evening classes or structured installment payments
Individuals looking to receive clinical training and preparation from a public institution with strong academic support