About Career Academy
CNA training school in Memphis since 2004
Last updated: April 2026
Our Mission
Career Academy prepares students for careers in healthcare through quality Certified Nursing Assistant training. Our goal is to give every student the knowledge, clinical skills, and confidence they need to pass the state certification exam and begin working as a CNA. We believe healthcare training should be accessible, affordable, and focused on real-world readiness. See our CNA classes in Memphis page for program details, schedules, and costs.
Our History
Career Academy was founded in 2004 by Brenda Woodruff with a simple mission: provide Memphis residents with a direct path to a healthcare career. For over two decades, the school has trained thousands of Certified Nursing Assistants who go on to work at Baptist Memorial Health Care, Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare, Regional One Health, St. Francis Hospital, the Memphis VA Medical Center, and dozens of nursing homes and home health agencies across the Memphis area.
In 2024, Duane and Josh Hutcheson took over leadership upon Brenda's retirement, continuing the mission of accessible, quality healthcare training while modernizing the program with new technology and expanded class schedules.
What Sets Us Apart
Registered State Exam Testing Site
Students test where they train — no need to travel to a separate testing location.
Day & Evening Classes
Flexible schedules for working adults. Day: Mon–Fri, 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM. Evening: Mon–Fri, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM.
All-Inclusive Tuition
$1,350 covers everything — textbook, skills materials, CPR, and state exam registration. No hidden fees.
Small Class Sizes
Personalized attention and hands-on training so every student gets the support they need.
New Classes Monthly
Frequent start dates mean you don’t have to wait long to begin your training.
Multiple Funding Options
WIOA, SNAP, VA, MyCAA, and employer-sponsored programs available.
New classes start monthly with day and evening options.
Join the Next ClassOur Instructors
Our classes are taught by experienced nurse instructors with clinical backgrounds in patient care. Every instructor is dedicated to hands-on skill development and student success, ensuring graduates are confident and prepared for the state certification exam and their first day on the job. Many of our graduates go on to advance from CNA to LPN and beyond.
State Authorization
Career Academy is authorized for operation as a postsecondary educational institution by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC).
Location & Contact
Ready to start your healthcare career?
Apply today and join the next class. Learn how CNA opens the door to a healthcare career in Memphis.
Apply NowWritten by Career Academy staff — CNA educators with 10+ years of experience training nursing assistants in Memphis, TN.