Start Your CNA Career Without Quitting Your Day Job: Weekend Programs in Minneapolis
Trying to start a healthcare career while working full-time or raising a family can feel nearly impossible—but it doesn’t have to be. If your weekdays are packed but you’re ready to earn your Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) credential, weekend programs in the Minneapolis area offer a smart, flexible solution. These accelerated options are designed to fit your schedule and fast-track you into the workforce—without months of waiting or weekday classes.
Here are some of the top weekend CNA programs in the Twin Cities, each with a standout benefit:
1. HeartCert CNA Nursing Program
HeartCert’s weekend CNA training is offered at its Minneapolis location on 1201 West River Parkway, with classes scheduled across multiple Saturdays and Sundays. Weekend sessions typically run from 7:00 AM to 1:30 PM, spanning 4 to 6 days, making it possible to complete training in under a month.
The course follows a hybrid format with 43 hours of mandatory online learning that must be completed before the first in-person class. The in-person portion includes 35 hours of lab work and hands-on clinical skills practice, supervised by licensed nurses. Students must complete both parts to qualify for the Minnesota CNA competency exam.
The program cost is $1,500. Students must be at least 16 years old and wear scrubs and a mask during in-person sessions. Optional add-ons at checkout include ESL support and medication aide (TMA) certification. CPR certification is not required for the class but is recommended for employment and offered separately by the school. Classes fill quickly, with some weekend sessions still open for registration.
| Category | Details |
| Price | $1,500 |
| Duration/Clock Hours | 43 hours online + 35 hours in-person (total: 78 hours) |
| Schedules | Weekend classes: typically Saturdays and Sundays, 7:00 AM – 1:30 PM; 4–6 sessions total |
| Contact Info | Phone: (651) 261-2314 Address: 1201 W River Pkwy, Suite 217, Minneapolis, MN 55454 |
2. Loving Lotus
The Loving Lotus weekend CNA program offers a hybrid structure that allows students to complete most of the coursework online before attending in-person skills training. The full program includes 42–44 hours of online instruction and 35 hours of in-person practical training, totaling a minimum of 75 hours.
Weekend in-person sessions are held over two weekends, typically from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM on Saturdays and Sundays. These sessions take place at the Newport, MN training site. Upcoming weekend dates include July 12–13 and July 19–20, as well as August 2–3 and 9–10.
The cost is $1,400, which includes the uniform, background check, access to clinical tools, and all online and in-person instruction. The state exam fee is not included. Payment plans are available with a deposit. Students must be at least 16, have a valid ID, Social Security card, and a recent TB test.
Online access is provided through Cinematic Health following registration and must be completed before attending in-person training.
| Category | Details |
| Price | $1,400 (state exam fee not included); payment plans available |
| Duration/Clock Hours | Minimum 75 hours total: 42–44 hours online + 35 hours in-person training |
| Schedules | Weekend classes: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM on Saturdays and Sundays over two weekends |
| Contact Info | Phone: 651-321-7500 Address: 303 21st Street, Suite 252, Newport, MN 55055 |
3. North Metro Health Institute
The weekend CNA program at North Metro Health Institute runs for 3.5 weeks and includes 96 total hours of instruction. Students complete classroom lectures and labs within the first 2.5 weeks, followed by a clinical rotation in a long-term care facility. Attendance at clinicals is mandatory.
Weekend classes are held from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Saturdays and Sundays. The program is offered monthly, with new sessions starting on the first Monday of each month. Evening classes are also available Monday through Friday from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Live online options are offered for students unable to attend in person.
Tuition is $850, plus a $50 non-refundable registration fee. Exam fees total $200 and are paid after the course ends. Optional technology support is available for an additional $200. Students must pass a background check and provide proof of a negative TB test before starting clinicals. Instruction is led by licensed registered nurses with extensive experience.
| Category | Details |
| Price | $850 tuition + $50 registration fee + $200 exam fee; optional $200 technology fee |
| Duration/Clock Hours | 3.5 weeks; 96 total hours (lectures, labs, and clinicals) |
| Schedules | Weekend: Saturdays & Sundays, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Evening: Monday–Friday, 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM |
| Contact Info | Phone: (763) 438-3314 Address: 7420 Unity Ave North, Suite #203, Brooklyn Park, MN 55443 |
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4. Prime Time Medical Training
Prime Time Medical Training offers a weekend CNA program structured as a hybrid format with 43 hours of self-paced online study and 32 hours of in-person training, totaling 75 clock hours. Weekend sessions are typically held over six weekends with in-person labs on Saturdays and Sundays from 8:00 AM to 4:45 PM, including a lunch break.
The tuition is $1,450, which covers course and lab fees, though students are responsible for purchasing scrubs and completing a background check. Clinical hours are held during the final week of class and may take place onsite or at a partnering facility. All online coursework must be completed before attending clinicals.
Students must be at least 16 years old, pass a background check, provide immunization records, and show proof of a negative TB test. The program prepares students to take the Minnesota Nurse Aide competency exam through Headmaster. Payment plans, scholarships, and third-party funding options are available to help cover costs. Training is held at the Blaine, MN campus.
| Category | Details |
| Price | $1,450 (includes course and lab fees; scrub uniform and background check not included) |
| Duration/Clock Hours | 75 total hours (43 hours online + 32 hours in-person lab/clinical) |
| Schedules | Weekend: Saturdays and Sundays, 8:00 AM – 4:45 PM; completed over 6 weekends |
| Contact Info | Phone: 952-563-9901 Address: 12016 Ulysses St. NE, Blaine, MN 55434 |
5. Accelerated School of Nursing Assistant
The weekend CNA program at Accelerated School of Nursing Assistant runs for three weeks and is designed for students needing Saturday and Sunday-only options. Weekend classes are held from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM and cover both theory and hands-on clinical training in a compressed schedule.
Tuition for weekend-only students is $1,500, while morning and evening weekday sessions cost $925 for self-sponsored students. Additional fees include $25 for registration and $25 for a background check. Discounts and financial support may be available for qualifying low-income students.
The program is state-approved and prepares students for the Minnesota Nursing Assistant Competency Exam. Instruction is provided by experienced nursing professionals, and training includes classroom learning, lab skills, and clinical simulation. Students can start on any day and choose the schedule that works best for them. Payments for evening and weekend classes must be completed in person. Support such as job placement assistance and transportation help is available for eligible students.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | $925 for morning/evening weekday classes ($850 with 15% discount); $1,500 for weekend classes. Additional fees: $25 registration, $25 background check. |
| Duration/Clock Hours | 3 weeks. Exact number of clock hours not specified. |
| Schedules | Morning/evening weekday classes (typically 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM); weekend-only classes available. |
| Contact Info | Phone: 952-215-4619 Address: 8470 Xerxes Ave N, Brooklyn Park, MN 55444 |
Picking the right weekend CNA program can feel like a big decision—because it is. You’re not just choosing a class schedule; you’re choosing the launchpad for your career in healthcare. Whether you’re changing careers, working full-time, or juggling family responsibilities, the weekend format makes becoming a CNA doable. But not all weekend CNA programs are built the same. Let’s break down your best options in the Minneapolis metro and help you figure out which one actually fits your life.
🚀 Fastest Path to Certification: HeartCert CNA Nursing Program
If you’re in a hurry to get certified and job-ready, HeartCert stands out for speed. Their weekend hybrid program can have you certified in as little as two weekends (plus 43 hours of required online work). It’s ideal for someone who has a tight schedule but can dedicate focused time over a couple of weekends and complete online coursework independently.
When speed matters most:
- You need a job yesterday
- You’re trying to meet a deadline for enrollment into another healthcare program
- You’re motivated and self-disciplined with online learning
But if you’re someone who needs more time to digest new material or feels uneasy with fast-paced labs, this may feel rushed. Their price point is also on the higher end at $1,500, so it’s best for those who value a short, high-quality program and can afford the investment.
💸 Most Affordable & Practical: North Metro Health Institute
Looking for the most budget-friendly option without cutting corners? North Metro Health Institute offers weekend CNA training for as low as $850 (plus fees), and even accepts installment payments. This 3.5-week program gives you time to ease into the skills with live instruction, coaching sessions, and strong instructor support.
When affordability matters most:
- You’re on a strict budget or need a payment plan
- You want access to in-person help and less reliance on self-paced learning
- You’d benefit from a slower, steadier approach
That said, North Metro requires perfect attendance for clinicals, so if your weekends are unpredictable or your schedule can shift last-minute, this may be a challenge.
🧘 Most Flexible for Busy Lives: Prime Time Medical Training
Need flexibility but don’t want to compromise on quality? Prime Time Medical Training offers a hybrid weekend option where online coursework is done on your time, and hands-on labs happen over 6 weekends. This is perfect if you want time to absorb the material at your own pace without sacrificing weekends every week.
When flexibility matters most:
- You’re balancing a full-time job or family duties
- You want to spread out the workload
- You appreciate a supportive, personalized learning environment
At $1,450, it’s not the cheapest, but they offer scholarships, WIOA assistance, and payment plans—and their high-quality instruction and job placement support give good value for the investment.
🌱 Great for Career Starters and High School Grads: Loving Lotus CNA Training
If you’re new to healthcare or fresh out of school, Loving Lotus is worth a look. Their weekend CNA program combines self-paced online study with intensive weekend skills labs, and their instructors are known for nurturing new students into confident caregivers.
Why Loving Lotus stands out:
- Tuition includes extras like a stethoscope, BP cuff, and gait belt
- Supportive for first-time students or those uncertain about their healthcare career path
- Payment plans available, with a straightforward sign-up process
This is a great program if you’re a high schooler, recent grad, or looking to test the waters in healthcare before committing to nursing or med school.
⚡ Need It Done Fast—but with a Budget? Accelerated School of Nursing Assistant
Accelerated School of Nursing Assistant promises certification in just 3 weeks, even for weekend learners. Their $1,500 weekend program isn’t the cheapest, but for speed and quality instruction, it’s a solid middle ground between HeartCert and North Metro. Plus, they offer discounts for self-sponsored students and assistance for low-income individuals.
This is a solid fit if:
- You want a quick turnaround
- You’re not afraid to dive into an intense few weekends
- You need help with tuition but want quality training
Ask the Right Questions Before You Enroll
No matter which program you’re leaning toward, don’t skip reaching out directly to the schools. A quick email or phone call can reveal so much:
- Job placement support – Do they help connect grads with employers?
- Make-up policy – What happens if you have to miss a session?
- State exam prep – Do they help schedule or prep for the Headmaster exam?
- Extra costs – Are scrubs, background checks, or books included?
- Class sizes – Will you get personal attention?
Asking these kinds of questions shows you’re serious—and helps you avoid surprises later.
Final Thoughts
There’s no “best” program for everyone—it really comes down to your goals, budget, and learning style.
- If you’re ready to commit a couple intense weekends and want to be working ASAP: HeartCert is a great pick.
- If you need to stretch every dollar and want a supportive pace: North Metro has your back.
- If you value flexibility and want personalized support: Prime Time delivers.
- If you’re testing the waters of healthcare or just starting your journey: Loving Lotus is ideal.
- If you want speed but need financial help to make it work: Accelerated School of Nursing Assistant hits the sweet spot.
The best advice? Pick up the phone and talk to someone at each school. Sometimes that one conversation helps you instantly feel which program fits your path—and that confidence can make all the difference.
You’re not just choosing a class. You’re choosing a foundation for your future. So ask questions, compare options, and trust your gut. You’ve got this.