North American Medical Academy CNA Program

This is not just about passing a test. NAMA’s program is designed to prepare students for real-world caregiving, which includes instruction in:

• Daily personal care routines like bathing, feeding, and grooming
• Infection control and hand hygiene
• Communication strategies with patients, including those with dementia or cognitive impairment
• Techniques for supporting mobility and safe patient transfers
• Cultural competency and end-of-life care

These hands-on skills are taught in a well-equipped training lab that simulates a healthcare setting. Equipment includes adjustable hospital beds, overbed tables, bedside units, and a patient care station. These setups help students learn procedures in an environment that mirrors what they’ll see on the job.

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One of the highlights of this program is its individualized learning environment. NAMA maintains small class sizes and places a strong emphasis on one-on-one attention. The program is led exclusively by Registered Nurses (RNs) who are certified trainers and have each spent at least five years in the healthcare field.

This is not a lecture-only class. Students are guided through both theoretical lessons and supervised lab practice, ensuring they can confidently apply what they’ve learned when they begin working.

The program has earned a reputation for high success rates, with the school reporting that 95% of students pass the Minnesota certification exam after completing the 4-week course.

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NAMA puts effort into providing a training environment that mimics actual healthcare settings. The facilities include:

• Three fully adjustable hospital beds for hands-on learning
• A dedicated bed for testing practice
• Overbed tables and bedside units with full simulation gear
• Separate hand-washing and sanitation areas
• Air-conditioned classrooms with proper lighting
• A student restroom and study area

There’s also access to computers and necessary office supplies, so students are supported both academically and practically.

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NAMA promotes its CNA program as one of the most affordable options in Minnesota, although a specific dollar amount isn’t mentioned online. However, the tuition includes a wide range of essentials, which many other programs charge extra for:

• CNA and HHA training
• Course books and handouts
• All lab and clinical supplies
• Student ID (needed for clinicals)

The only out-of-pocket requirement mentioned is uniforms, which students are expected to purchase on their own.

Also noteworthy is the optional Trained Medication Administration training, which may be a valuable add-on for students interested in working in group homes or other environments where administering medications is part of the job.

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Students can choose between two learning paces:

• 4-week accelerated course (intensive, ideal for full-time learners)
• 8-week format (more manageable for students with other responsibilities)

In both cases, the total instruction time is 125 hours, which is higher than the standard 75-hour minimum set by the state. This could give students more confidence and better preparation than quicker or less thorough programs.

The school does not advertise online or hybrid options, so students should expect in-person attendance.

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After completing the course, students are eligible to sit for the Minnesota State CNA and HHA certification exams. Passing these exams places them on the Minnesota Nursing Assistant Registry, a requirement for working in licensed care facilities in the state.

The dual training (CNA + HHA) is especially valuable, as it broadens job prospects beyond nursing homes and hospitals into home health care, group homes, and assisted living.

NAMA has also partnered in the past with local community organizations such as the Minnesota Workforce Center, Emerge Community, and the Minnesota African Women Association, helping connect students—particularly those from low-income households—with career resources.

While the school does not explicitly advertise job placement services, these partnerships suggest a track record of helping students transition into the workforce.

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Admission requirements are not thoroughly detailed in the publicly available information. However, the program does require:

• A student ID card for clinicals (provided by the school)
• Students to purchase their own uniforms
• Participation in an in-person facility tour or orientation to review expectations and program details

Prospective students are encouraged to schedule a private visit to the campus to learn more about tuition, refunds, and admissions steps.

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Pros:

• 125-hour program exceeds state requirements
• Prepares students for both CNA and HHA certification
• Optional medication administration training available
• High pass rate (95%) on certification exams
• Taught by experienced RNs
• Equipment and lab access included in tuition
• One-on-one instruction in a small class setting

Cons:

• No published tuition rates online
• No mention of evening, weekend, or online options
• Limited information about financial aid or payment plans
• Uniforms not included in tuition
• No formal job placement services listed

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