Dade Institute of Technology and Health CNA Program

The dials on this program turn fast, but they turn deep. Coursework includes:

1. Medical Terminology (10 hrs)
2. Basic Healthcare Worker I & II (total 40 hrs theory)
3. Basic Nursing Lab & Clinical I & II (30 lab + 40 clinical hrs)

That translates into lessons on anatomy, nutrition, pharmacology basics, infection control, gerontology, pediatrics, obstetrics, mental health, and wound care. The wide lens means students learn how to handle everything from patient transfers and vital signs to documenting observations and helping with daily tasks.

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One of the biggest strengths here is the intensity of hands-on training. The 30 lab hours teach students how to move patients safely, manage hygiene tasks, and use medical tools. Then the 40 clinical hours give real-world practice in a healthcare setting, allowing students to see firsthand how to perform daily care under supervision.

This gives you direct experience: taking blood pressure, assisting with feeding, documenting care, and noticing signs of physical changes. If you prefer learning by doing, this setup is ideal—but it’s fast-paced and demands commitment from day one.

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At $5,050 total, Dade Institute’s program sits well above the regional average, where most CNA training ranges between $500–$2,000. Fees include various costs:

• Tuition: $4,500
• Registration: $100
• Books & supplies: $200
• Materials: $100
• Certification fee: $250

You’ll also need to cover extras like background checks, drug screening, immunizations, and physical exams separately. Given this price point, weigh whether you need the fast pace and LPN pathway enough to justify the extra cost.

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This program lists several prerequisites:

• High school diploma or GED
• Pass at least 70% on the school’s English entrance test
• Provide transcripts as required
• Proof of immunizations (measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, varicella, influenza, hepatitis B)
• Level II criminal background check
• Completed Dade Institute application and enrollment agreement
• Valid government-issued ID

These are standard requirements for a training program of this nature, though the entrance exam adds a higher hurdle than many competing programs.

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A notable feature is the ability for Florida CNAs who complete this program with a 75% or higher grade to enter Dade Institute’s Practical Nursing (LPN) program directly with credit for the CNA training. This pathway can save time and money if you’re planning to continue nursing education.

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The program does not provide instructor background details, but given the involvement of clinical training and written exams, it’s safe to assume staff have nursing experience. The curriculum touches on high-level topics usually reserved for nursing students, like pharmacology, pediatric care, obstetrics, and psychiatric nursing, suggesting a potentially higher-level learning experience—though the impact depends on instructor capabilities.

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Pros:

• Fast-paced 6-week program with depth and breadth
• Rich curriculum spanning advanced care principles
• Real clinical experience included
• LPN transition path if graded sufficiently
• Training covers essential skills for CNA roles

Cons:

• High cost, significantly above local alternatives
• Entrance exam may block motivated but underprepared students
• No clarity on financial aid or flexible payment plans
• Intensive scheduling may overwhelm students balancing other commitments

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Spending over $5,000 means this program is an investment. It’s worthwhile if you:

• Want fast, career-track training
• Plan to continue into LPN education
• Expect high instruction quality and robust content

But if you’re looking for a simple, affordable certification in 6 weeks, there are cheaper options—though they may not provide the same depth or advancement opportunities.

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To begin:

1. Contact the school to request application and enrollment forms
2. Submit transcripts and identification documents
3. Pass the English entrance test (≥ 70%)
4. Complete immunizations and background checks
5. Sign enrollment agreement and pay registration fee

Unlike open-enrollment programs, this pathway requires preparation—especially in English aptitude and healthcare readiness.

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As a CNA, graduates earn $12–15/hour on average in Florida. This program primes you for roles in hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living, home health, and rehab centers. With growing demand for healthcare workers, a solid training program could pay off quickly.

If studying medicine or advancing to LPN/RN is in your sights, this program could serve as a strong launchpad—especially with credit transfer options.

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