If you’re exploring online CNA classes in the Miami area, two standout hybrid programs offer flexible learning formats, potential full tuition coverage, and strong preparation for the Florida CNA exam. Each program is structured differently in terms of pace, schedule, and depth, making it easier to find one that fits your lifestyle and goals.
1. South Florida Health Care Institute
This 5-week, 120-hour hybrid CNA program includes 40 hours of online coursework, 40 hours of in-person lab training, and 40 hours of clinicals held at a local hospital. Online theory is self-paced during the week, while labs and clinicals take place on weekends—labs run from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and clinicals from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
The program is approved by the Florida Board of Nursing and includes all required supplies, textbooks, uniforms, liability insurance, and state exam fees. Tuition is $1,750 but may be fully covered through partnerships with Futuro Health, MorseLife Health System, or Boca Helping Hands.
Monthly start dates are available. Students must attend all weekend sessions and complete a background check, drug screening, and health clearance to enroll. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to take the Florida CNA exam.
| Category | Details |
| Price | $1,750 total; may be free through Futuro Health, MorseLife Health System, or Boca Helping Hands |
| Format | Hybrid (online theory + in-person labs and clinicals) |
| Duration | 5 weeks (120 total hours) |
| Schedules | Online theory: self-paced during the week; Labs: Saturday–Sunday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; Clinicals: Saturday–Sunday, 7:00 AM–3:00 PM |
| Address | 901 West Yamato Road, Suite 150, Boca Raton, FL 33431 |
2. South Florida State College
South Florida State College offers a 165-hour hybrid CNA program at its Highlands Campus in Avon Park. The course is structured with online learning during the week and in-person sessions on evenings and weekends. In-person classes typically meet Monday through Thursday from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Sundays from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
The program includes 90 hours of Introduction to Health Care and 75 hours of Nursing Assistant instruction. It prepares students for the Florida CNA certification exam and entry-level healthcare employment. Total tuition is $1,696.10, not including books, CPR training, background check, and drug screening.
Students may qualify for full tuition coverage through programs such as CareerSource Heartland, Panther Youth Partners, Farmworker Career Development, or Veteran and Vocational Rehabilitation benefits. The program runs up to five times per year and requires internet access for the online component.
| Category | Details |
| Price | $1,696.10 (excluding additional fees for books, CPR, background check, and drug screening) |
| Format | Hybrid (online coursework during the week, in-person classes on evenings and weekends) |
| Duration | 165 clock hours |
| Schedules | Monday–Thursday, 5:30 p.m.–9:00 p.m.; Sunday, 7:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. |
| Address | 600 West College Drive, Avon Park, FL 33825 |
🎯 Find Your Perfect Fit
Explore top-rated programs in your area—online, accelerated, and part-time options included—so you can choose what works best for you, faster.
Choosing between these two online CNA programs can feel overwhelming—but breaking down what each program offers (and for whom it’s best suited) makes the decision much easier. Below is our insight-driven breakdown to help guide your choice.
Duration: 5 weeks
Format: Online theory + weekend in-person lab & clinicals
Cost: $1,750 — or free via Futuro Health, Boca Helping Hands, or MorseLife
Location: Boca Raton (serves Miami metro students)
Why we recommend it:
This program is ideal for students who want to enter the workforce fast without sacrificing quality. With fully online weekday lessons and in-person weekend-only training, it’s incredibly flexible for working adults or parents. The program also includes exam fees, books, uniforms, and even a blood pressure cuff and stethoscope—making the cost all-inclusive. If you qualify for partner funding, you could pay nothing out of pocket.
Who it’s for:
- Motivated self-starters looking to become a CNA in just over a month
- People with weekday obligations but flexible weekends
Anyone looking for a fast-track program with financial aid opportunities that require no FAFSA
Duration: Approx. 12 weeks
Format: Hybrid with evening & weekend classes
Cost: $1,696.10 — or free for qualified students
Location: Avon Park (reasonable for Miami-area students willing to commute or relocate short-term)
Why we recommend it:
This college-based program gives you more training hours (165 vs. the state-required 120), which could give you an edge on the job market and help with further education like LPN or RN programs. While slightly longer, the evening and Sunday schedule is still doable for adults with day jobs. It’s also well-connected to career advancement pathways and local employers.
Who it’s for:
- Students interested in gaining more hands-on training and classroom depth
- Anyone considering advancing their career to LPN or RN in the future
- People who value a slower pace and more academic support
- Students eligible for Panther Youth Partners, CareerSource, or agricultural worker support programs
Both programs have no-cost options if you qualify. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Program | Full Tuition | Cost If Funded | Notes |
| South Florida Health Care Institute | $1,750 | $0 with partners | Includes exam fees, uniforms, & more |
| South Florida State College | $1,696.10 | $0 with partners | Some additional fees not bundled |
Tip: If free tuition is your top priority, reach out to both schools and speak with their program contacts. Each has unique funding partnerships that apply based on age, job history, or financial need.
🕒 Accelerated vs. Extended Learning
| Preference | Best Choice | Why |
| Finish Fast | South Florida Health Care Institute | Complete training in 5 weeks and sit for the CNA exam almost immediately |
| Slower, More In-Depth Pace | South Florida State College | 12-week program with additional learning time and training hours |
🗣️ Final Thoughts: Talk to the Schools
We strongly encourage you to contact both programs directly. Here’s why:
- You’ll get a better sense of class schedules, funding eligibility, and job placement help.
- Program reps can walk you through the next steps and documentation needed.
- Some funding is first-come, first-served—early communication increases your chances of getting it.
💡 Quick Takeaways
| Insight | Best Program |
| Fastest route to CNA certification | South Florida Health Care Institute |
| Most training hours & growth potential | South Florida State College |
| Most flexible hybrid schedule | South Florida Health Care Institute |
| Best for deeper academic learning | South Florida State College |
| Strongest job placement partnerships | Tie—both are solid with local employers |
| Best chance at fully free CNA training | Tie—depends on your qualifications |
Whether you’re looking for speed, affordability, or career longevity, both of these programs offer strong value. If you’re serious about becoming a CNA in South Florida, your best next move is to contact both programs and start the conversation. That simple step could save you money, time—and get you working in a healthcare role in a matter of weeks.