Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Mississippi
This guide details the process to become a Certified Nursing Assistant in Mississippi, focusing on the required 75 training hours, consisting of 59 classroom hours and 16 clinical hours. It covers the journey from verifying prerequisites to finding your first job, with a typical duration of 8-12 weeks and potential costs ranging from $800 to $2,500.
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In Mississippi, the career of a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) presents a stable and rewarding opportunity, evidenced by a consistent demand for healthcare services across the state. Data shows that CNAs in Mississippi earn an average annual salary of approximately $24,000, with employment opportunities projected to grow by 8% over the next five years. This growth is driven by an aging population that increasingly requires long-term care and support, positioning CNAs as critical components in the healthcare delivery system.
Mississippi's healthcare environment is shaped by specific state regulations that influence the training and certification of CNAs. The state mandates a minimum of 75 hours of training, which includes both classroom instruction and practical hands-on experience. Mississippi's major healthcare employers, such as the University of Mississippi Medical Center and Baptist Memorial Health Care, are significant due to their expansive networks that offer multiple employment opportunities across various regions. These factors, coupled with a lower cost of living, make Mississippi a unique market for nursing assistants.
This guide provides a detailed roadmap for becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Mississippi. Readers will learn about the required steps for certification, including details on approved training programs and the examination process. The guide also covers salary expectations, which vary by region and facility, and offers insights into the job market, highlighting areas with the highest demand for CNAs. By presenting this information, the guide aims to equip prospective CNAs with the necessary knowledge to successfully enter this field.
Licensing Authority
Mississippi State Department of Health, Professional Licensure Division, Office of Licensure
In Mississippi, becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) requires completing a state-approved training program and passing a state exam. CNAs must register with the Mississippi State Department of Health and maintain employment in the field to remain on the Nurse Aide Registry.
Official Resources
Mississippi Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- High school diploma or equivalent recommended
- Total Training Hours
- 75 hours
- Classroom Hours
- 59 hours
- Clinical Hours
- 16 hours
- Minimum Age
- 18 years old
Additional Requirements
- Background check (State and federal) with fingerprinting
- Proof of employment as a CNA for at least 8 consecutive hours within the last 24 months
Certification Exam
- Exam
- Mississippi Nurse Aide Exam
- Components
- Written, Skills demonstration
- Fee
- Varies by testing location
How to Become a Certified Nursing Assistant in Mississippi
tuition $500-$2,000, exam fee $100, background check $50, application fee $50, textbooks/supplies $50-$100, scrubs $50
Fastest Path
4-6 weeks
Typical Timeline
8-12 weeks
Estimated Cost
$800–$2,500
Verify You Meet Mississippi's Prerequisites
Before starting your CNA training in Mississippi, ensure you meet all prerequisites. You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and be in good health. Gather two forms of government-issued photo ID, your high school diploma or GED, and a recent TB test result. Contact the Mississippi State Department of Health at 601-576-7400 for any specific questions about additional requirements.
Tip
Order your high school transcript online through Parchment.com ($15) to avoid a 2-week mail delay from your school's registrar office.
Complete Background Check and Health Screenings
Schedule a fingerprinting session for a Mississippi state police background check. Visit your local police department or a designated LiveScan provider. Health screenings must include a TB test and possibly a drug screening. Results typically take 2-3 weeks. Disqualifying criminal offenses and health conditions are listed on the MSDH website. If you have a criminal record, you may apply for a waiver through the MSDH.
Tip
Schedule your fingerprinting and TB test on the same day to streamline the process.
Research and Choose an Approved Training Program
Identify a state-approved CNA training program in Mississippi. Only programs approved by the Mississippi State Department of Health qualify you for certification. Visit the MSDH's website to access a list of approved programs. Attending a non-approved program means you cannot sit for the state exam, wasting both time and money. Programs vary in cost, location, and schedule.
Tip
Consider program locations and schedules to find the best fit for your needs.
Enroll in and Complete Training
Once you select an approved program, enroll and complete both the 59 hours of classroom instruction and 16 hours of clinical training. Ensure the program provides detailed records of your attendance and performance, as these are necessary for exam registration. Training typically takes 4-12 weeks depending on the program's schedule.
Tip
Keep a personal record of all training hours in case of discrepancies with the school's records.
Prepare for the Competency Exam
After completing your training, begin preparing for the Mississippi Nurse Aide Competency Exam. The exam includes both a written and a practical skills section. Utilize study guides and practice tests to familiarize yourself with the exam format and content. The Mississippi State Department of Health website provides resources including practice exams and study tips.
Tip
Regularly review skills and procedures demonstrated during clinical hours to stay sharp for the practical exam.
Register for and Schedule the Exam
Register for the Mississippi Nurse Aide Competency Exam through the designated testing vendor, Pearson VUE. Complete the registration online, selecting a test date and location convenient for you. The exam fee is typically around $100. Ensure you have completed all prerequisites and training requirements before registering.
Tip
Choose an exam date that allows ample time for review and travel to the testing center.
Take and Pass the Exam
On the day of your exam, arrive early with proper identification and any required documents. The exam consists of a written section with multiple-choice questions and a practical skills test. Each section must be passed to qualify for certification. If you fail, you can reschedule after a waiting period, usually 30 days.
Tip
Get a good night's sleep before the exam and arrive early to avoid any last-minute stress.
Apply for State Certification and Registry
After passing the exam, apply for your official CNA certification through the Mississippi State Department of Health. Complete the Application for Nurse Aide Certification form and submit it along with any required fees and proof of passing the exam. Certification is typically processed within 4-6 weeks. Once processed, your name will appear on the Mississippi Nurse Aide Registry.
Tip
Double-check the application for any errors before submission to avoid delays.
Receive Your Certification and Verify on State Registry
Once your application is processed, you will receive your CNA certification by mail. Verify your name and certification status on the Mississippi Nurse Aide Registry online to ensure all information is correct. This verification is crucial as employers will check this registry before hiring.
Tip
Regularly check the mail and the online registry for updates on your certification status.
Find Your First Job
Begin your job search by visiting local hospitals, nursing homes, and care facilities to inquire about CNA positions. Utilize online job boards like Indeed and Monster to find openings in your area. Prepare a resume highlighting your CNA certification, training, and any relevant skills or experiences. Consider entry-level positions to gain experience and potential job advancement.
Tip
Tailor your resume for each job application to increase your chances of getting an interview.
Alternative Training Paths
Employer-Sponsored Training at Nursing Homes
Some nursing homes in Mississippi offer employer-sponsored CNA training programs. These are often paid training opportunities that guarantee a job upon successful completion. The employer covers the cost of training in exchange for a commitment to work for a specified period.
Best for: Individuals looking for guaranteed employment post-training
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a training program not on the Mississippi Board of Nursing approved list. You will complete the program but be unable to sit for the state competency exam, wasting both your time and tuition money.
What to Expect on Exam Day
NNAAP Written and Skills Examination administered by Pearson VUE
Written Test
Questions: 70
Time Limit: 2 hours
Format: Multiple choice
Passing Score: Must achieve a scaled score of 70%
- • Physical Care Skills: 35%
- • Psychosocial Care Skills: 15%
- • Role of the Nurse Aide: 50%
Skills Test
Skills Tested: 5
Time Per Skill: 25 minutes total
Candidates demonstrate skills on a volunteer or mannequin under examiner supervision.
What to Bring
- ✓ Two forms of identification (one must be a photo ID)
- ✓ Authorization to Test letter
- ✓ Three No. 2 pencils
- ✓ Watch with a second hand
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Personal electronic devices (phones, smartwatches)
- ✗ Food or drink
- ✗ Study materials or notes
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes 15 minutes. Written test is 2 hours. Break. Skills test is approximately 25 minutes.
Getting Your Results
Results are available online within 24 hours after the exam. Candidates receive an email with instructions on accessing results.
If You Don't Pass
Candidates can retake the exam up to three times in Mississippi. Retake must occur within 24 months of the first attempt. Each retake requires paying the exam fee again.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Read each question carefully, especially the keywords. Misreading can lead to incorrect answers.
- 2. For the skills test, practice the sequence of each skill to manage the limited time efficiently.
- 3. During the written test, if uncertain, mark the question and return to it after completing the others.
- 4. In the skills test, communicate what you are doing as if you are explaining the procedure to a patient.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED Certificate
From your high school or GED program · Varies · Varies, depending on the institution's response time
Required to prove educational qualification
Government Issued Photo ID
Department of Motor Vehicles or other government agency · Varies · Immediate to several weeks
Necessary for identity verification
Social Security Card
Social Security Administration · 2-4 weeks
Required for background checks and employment verification
TB Test Results
Local clinic or healthcare provider · Varies · Typically within 48-72 hours after test
Proof of tuberculosis clearance is mandatory
CPR Certification
American Heart Association or Red Cross · Approximately $50-$100 · Varies by course availability
Must be a healthcare provider level certification
Physical Examination Record
Healthcare provider · Varies · Depends on appointment availability
Confirms physical ability to perform nursing assistant duties
2During Training
Enrollment Agreement
CNA training program · None · Immediate upon signing
Legal agreement between student and training institution
Attendance Record
CNA training program · None · Ongoing during training
Must meet minimum attendance requirements for program completion
Training Performance Evaluations
CNA training program · None · Provided at various checkpoints during training
Assesses progress and skill acquisition
3For the Exam
Exam Application Form
Mississippi State Department of Health website · Varies
Must be filled out to register for the CNA certification exam
Exam Fee Receipt
Paid online or at the testing center · Approximately $101
Proof of payment is required on the day of the exam
2 Passport-sized Photos
Photo center or similar service provider · Approximately $10-$15
Required for exam identification purposes
4For Certification
Background Check Authorization
Mississippi State Department of Health or designated provider · Approximately $50
Mandatory for final certification
Certification Application
Mississippi State Department of Health website · None
Required to apply for official CNA certification after passing the exam
Proof of Passing the Exam
Testing center or via the exam provider's website · None
Official results needed to complete certification application
After You're Certified: What's Next
Verify your status on the Mississippi Nurse Aide Registry and ensure your certificate is in order. Familiarize yourself with the legal responsibilities and scope of practice for CNAs in Mississippi.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • Mississippi State Department of Health website, Indeed, Glassdoor, local hospital and nursing home websites
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, and rehabilitation centers. Hospitals often offer more complex cases with diverse learning opportunities, while nursing homes provide more stable, routine care environments.
Resume Tip: Include your CNA certification, any relevant clinical experience from training, soft skills like communication and empathy, and any volunteer work in healthcare settings.
Interview Tip: Be prepared to discuss why you chose healthcare, your experiences during training, how you handle stressful situations, and ways you ensure patient dignity and safety.
Expected First-Year Salary
In Mississippi, starting salaries for CNAs range from $21,000 to $28,000 annually, depending on the employer and location.
Career Advancement Path
LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse)
Complete an accredited LPN program, which typically lasts 1-2 years.
Challenges to Prepare For
- • Handling physical and emotional stress, managing time effectively in fast-paced environments, and dealing with difficult patients or family members. Building resilience and seeking support from more experienced colleagues can help.
Certified Nursing Assistant Salary in Mississippi
In Mississippi, Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) earn a median annual salary of $35,000, which translates to an hourly wage of approximately $16.83. These figures are slightly above the national median for this profession.
Entry Level
$25,000
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$35,000
$16.83/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$40,000
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$33,000 national · +6.06% in Mississippi
Salary by Metro Area
Slightly below state median
Above state median
Below state median
Salary by Employer Type
Mississippi's cost of living is one of the lowest in the U.S., making the median CNA salary more competitive relative to expenses.
Benefits & Compensation
Typical benefits for CNAs in Mississippi include health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. Some employers may offer tuition assistance.
Salary Growth Outlook
Salary growth for CNAs in Mississippi is expected to align with national health care sector trends, potentially increasing with experience and additional certifications.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Highlight any specialized skills or certifications to justify a higher salary.
- •Research the typical benefits offered by employers and negotiate for enhancements if they're below average.
Job Market in Mississippi
The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) job market in Mississippi is experiencing a steady demand due to an aging population and increased healthcare needs. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a national growth rate of around 8% from 2019 to 2029 for nursing assistants, with similar trends expected in Mississippi. The state's rural health challenges and high chronic disease rates are key drivers for this demand.
Top Hiring Areas
Capital city with several large hospitals and care centers
Growing retirement community and healthcare needs
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early spring and late fall, aligning with hiring cycles in major healthcare facilities
Opportunities
- Potential for job stability in long-term care
- Opportunities for further training and certification
Challenges
- Lower wages compared to national averages
- High turnover rates
Training Programs in Mississippi
Mississippi offers several options for Certified Nursing Assistant training, including community colleges, vocational schools, and employer-sponsored programs.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 4 to 12 weeks | $400 to $1,500 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 6 to 10 weeks | $600 to $2,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | Varies, often 4 to 8 weeks | Free/Paid training | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Raymond, Mississippi
High NCLEX pass rates and extensive campus facilities
Gulfport, Mississippi
Offers both day and evening classes, catering to a wide range of students
Online & Hybrid Options
Several community colleges offer hybrid options where theoretical components are online, but practical skills are learned on-site.
How to Choose a Program
- •Verify the program's state approval and exam pass rates before enrolling.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Certified Nursing Assistant program info for Mississippi
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
Every 2 years
Renewal Fee
Varies
CE Hours
None
Work requirement: At least one documented day of work every 24 months
Out-of-State Reciprocity
Mississippi allows CNAs from other states to apply for reciprocity if they meet state requirements and have an active certification with no findings of abuse, neglect, or misappropriation.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Active certification in another state
- No disqualifying findings on background check
State Agreements
All states under federal guidelines
Additional Exams
No, unless certification is found deficient
Application Process
Submit application to Mississippi Nurse Aide Registry, include proof of certification and employment
Fees
Varies by case
Processing Time: 4-6 weeks
Licensing Tips
Ensure all documents are complete and accurate to avoid delays
Keep track of certification expiration to maintain continuous eligibility
Recommended Resources
CNA Practice Test
This book offers a series of practice exams and detailed answers to help prepare for the CNA certification in Mississippi.
Nurse Assistant Practice Exam Kit
An online resource providing over 1,000 practice questions and rationales, simulating the actual CNA exam environment.
CNA Certified Nursing Assistant Exam Cram
This guide provides a concise review of key concepts along with practice questions, covering all essential material for the CNA exam.
CNA Study Guide
Updated annually, this guide includes comprehensive reviews, a practice test, and detailed explanations of answers.
Nursing Scrubs
Required for clinical training to maintain hygiene and professional standards during practical sessions.
Blood Pressure Cuff and Stethoscope
Essential tools for learning vital signs measurement, a fundamental skill for CNAs.
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Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-13
- Mississippi Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-13
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-13