Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

What is a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)?

Accepted Answer

A Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) is a healthcare professional who provides direct patient care under the supervision of a licensed nurse. CNAs assist patients with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, eating, and mobility, and they monitor and report changes in patient condition. In Massachusetts, CNAs must be listed on the state's Nurse Aide Registry after completing an approved training program and passing the competency evaluation.

Question 2

How long is the Nurse Aide Training program?

Accepted Answer

Our program is approximately 4 weeks long. We offer three schedule formats: Day Hybrid (95 hours), Evening Hybrid (95 hours), and Fully In-Person Evening (90.5 hours). The hybrid formats combine online theory coursework with in-person lab and clinical training, while the fully in-person format is conducted entirely on-site.

Question 3

Is the program approved by the state of Massachusetts?

Accepted Answer

Our Nurse Aide Training program is pending approval by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the Division of Occupational Licensure (DOL). We are not currently recruiting or enrolling students. Once approved, our program will meet all Massachusetts state requirements for CNA certification eligibility.

Question 4

What is the difference between the hybrid and fully in-person formats?

Accepted Answer

The hybrid format (95 hours) allows students to complete theory and lecture content online at their own pace, while attending scheduled in-person sessions for hands-on lab skills and clinical training. The fully in-person format (90.5 hours) requires attendance for all sessions at our Agawam facility. Both formats cover the same core curriculum and prepare students for the Massachusetts CNA competency evaluation.

Question 5

Where is the school located?

Accepted Answer

Dola Health Career Institute is located at 2 SouthBridge Drive, Agawam, MA 01001. We serve students from the greater Western Massachusetts area, including Springfield, Westfield, Chicopee, Holyoke, and surrounding communities.

Question 6

Who is eligible to enroll in the CNA program?

Accepted Answer

To enroll, applicants must: be at least 18 years of age; have a high school diploma or GED; be able to read, write, and communicate in English; have no disqualifying entries on a CORI (Criminal Offender Record Information) background check; be physically able to perform the duties of a nurse aide; and provide proof of required immunizations including TB test, MMR, Varicella, and Hepatitis B. Additional documentation may be required.

Question 7

Is the school currently accepting applications?

Accepted Answer

We are not currently recruiting or enrolling students. Our program is pending approval by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the Division of Occupational Licensure (DOL). Once approved, we will open enrollment and announce upcoming session dates. You are welcome to contact us to be notified when enrollment opens.

Question 8

Do I need any prior healthcare experience to apply?

Accepted Answer

No prior healthcare experience is required. Our program is designed for individuals who are new to the healthcare field and want to begin a career as a Certified Nurse Aide. We provide all the foundational training you need to succeed.

Question 9

What documents do I need to submit with my application?

Accepted Answer

You will need to provide a valid government-issued photo ID, proof of high school diploma or GED, immunization records (TB test, MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B), and consent for a CORI background check. Additional documentation may be requested during the enrollment process.

Question 10

How much does the program cost?

Accepted Answer

The total program cost is $1,540, which includes tuition of $1,500 and a CORI background check fee of $40. A refundable deposit of $75 is required to secure your seat and is applied toward your tuition balance.

Question 11

Is the $75 deposit refundable?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The $75 enrollment deposit is refundable if you withdraw before the program start date, subject to the terms outlined in our enrollment agreement. Once the program begins, the refund policy follows Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 255, Section 13K, which provides a prorated refund schedule based on the number of hours completed.

Question 12

Are there payment plans available?

Accepted Answer

Please contact us directly to discuss payment options. We are committed to making our program accessible and will work with students on a case-by-case basis. Some students may also be eligible for workforce development funding through MassHire or other state programs.

Question 13

Does the program cost include the state certification exam?

Accepted Answer

The state CNA competency evaluation (written and skills test) is administered by a third-party testing organization approved by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. Exam fees are separate from program tuition. We will provide students with full details on scheduling and fees for the competency evaluation during the program.

Question 14

What happens after I complete the program?

Accepted Answer

After completing the program, you will be eligible to take the Massachusetts CNA competency evaluation, which consists of a written knowledge test and a hands-on skills demonstration. Upon passing both portions, you will be listed on the Massachusetts Nurse Aide Registry and can begin working as a Certified Nurse Aide in nursing homes, hospitals, assisted living facilities, and home health agencies.

Question 15

Does Dola Health Career Institute help with job placement?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Through our sister company, Dola Staffing Agency, we connect qualified CNAs with healthcare employers across Western Massachusetts. We work with nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home health agencies to help our graduates find employment opportunities after certification.

Question 16

What is the job outlook for CNAs in Massachusetts?

Accepted Answer

The demand for Certified Nurse Aides in Massachusetts is strong and growing, driven by an aging population and the expansion of long-term care services. CNAs can find employment in nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, hospitals, assisted living facilities, and home health settings. Certification also serves as a stepping stone to advanced healthcare careers such as LPN, RN, or other allied health roles.

Question 17

Does Dola Health Career Institute offer training for employers?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer employer workforce training services including on-site CNA certification cohorts, First Aid & CPR training, and custom training programs tailored to your organization's needs. We work with healthcare facilities across Western Massachusetts to train and certify their staff. Visit our Employer Workforce Training page to learn more.

Question 18

What is Dola Staffing Agency?

Accepted Answer

Dola Staffing Agency is our healthcare staffing division that connects qualified CNAs and other healthcare professionals with employers across Western Massachusetts. We provide temporary, per diem, and permanent placement services to nursing homes, assisted living facilities, hospitals, and home health agencies.

About the Program

Enrollment & Eligibility

Tuition & Fees

After Graduation

Employer & Staffing Services

Still have questions?