Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College CNA Program

The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program at Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College (OCtech) in Orangeburg, South Carolina provides essential training for those seeking to begin a rewarding career in healthcare. This certificate program prepares students to provide compassionate care to elderly and acutely ill patients in various healthcare settings. Whether you’re a recent high school graduate or someone looking to change careers, OCtech’s CNA program offers the foundational skills needed to become a vital member of the healthcare team. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to take the Competency Exam for state certification as a Certified Nursing Assistant, opening doors to employment in hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home care settings throughout South Carolina.

CNA Program Quick Facts

• Program Length: 9 semester hours (one semester)
• Cost of Program: $210 per credit hour for in-county residents, plus $5 per credit hour technology fee, $25 registration fee, and possible $25 lab fee
• Accreditation: Contact the program directly for accreditation information
• State Exam Pass Rate: Contact the program directly for current pass rate information
• CNA Program Schedule: Contact the program directly for current class schedule options

CNA Training Structure

• Classroom Learning: The program curriculum covers essential topics including body mechanics, nutrition, anatomy and physiology, infection control, communication skills, and personal care skills. Students take courses such as Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (AHS-106), Long-Term Care (AHS-163), and Technical Communications (ENG-160).
• Clinical Experience: Students gain valuable hands-on experience under the supervision of nursing and medical staff. As nursing assistants, they learn to provide personal care and emotional support to patients, take vital signs (temperatures, pulse, respiration, and blood pressure), observe patients’ physical, mental and emotional conditions, and report changes to nursing or medical staff.
• Exam Preparation: The program prepares students to take the Competency Exam for state certification as a Certified Nursing Assistant. An 80% (“B”) competency is required in all core courses for successful completion of the program.

Admission Requirements

To be admitted to the CNA program at OCtech, applicants must:

• Complete and submit an online application
• Complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
• Submit placement testing (SAT, ACT, WorkKeys, or ACCUPLACER test scores)
• Submit high school transcript and any college transcripts
• Meet with an advisor before registering for classes

Criminal Record Check Requirements: All direct caregivers must obtain a criminal record check as designated by clinical agencies. Persons convicted of or who have pled no contest to child or adult abuse, sexual assault, assault with a deadly weapon, neglect, mistreatment or misappropriation of property are not permitted to work as direct caregivers. Clinical agencies reserve the right to deny privileges for other convictions as well.

Please contact the program directly for the most up-to-date admission requirements.

CNA Class Schedule & Flexibility

OCtech offers the CNA program during the fall and spring semesters. The program is structured as a one-semester certificate that can be completed in a relatively short time frame.

Please contact the program directly for current class schedule options, including specific start dates, day/evening availability, and full-time/part-time options.

Tuition & Financial Aid Information

• Program Tuition: Varies based on residency status
  • In-County (Orangeburg and Calhoun Counties): $210 per credit hour
  • Out-of-County Residents: $253 per credit hour
  • Out-of-State Residents: $341 per credit hour
• Additional Fees:
  • Technology Fee: $5 per credit hour
  • Registration Fee: $25 per semester (non-refundable)
  • Late Registration Fee: $50
  • Enrollment Fee: $60 (for new or returning students who have not been enrolled for three or more semesters)
  • Lab Fee: Some courses may be subject to a $25 lab fee
  • Program Fee: Technical Program fee of $125
• Financial Aid Options: OCtech offers various financial assistance options including grants, loans, scholarships, and South Carolina Lottery Tuition Assistance. Students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility.

For financial aid questions, contact the Financial Aid office at 803-535-1224 or email [email protected].

How to Apply

To apply for the CNA program at OCtech:

1. Apply Online: Complete an online application at the OCtech website
2. Financial Aid: Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
3. Placement Testing: Submit SAT, ACT, WorkKeys, or ACCUPLACER test scores, or take the ACCUPLACER through OCtech’s Testing Center
4. Submit Transcripts: Send your high school transcript and any college transcripts to OCtech’s Registrar’s Office
5. Meet with an Advisor: Schedule an appointment with an advisor in the Student Services office to register for classes

For assistance with your application or questions about the program, contact OCtech’s Admissions Office at 803-535-1234 or email [email protected].

CNA Program Location & Contact Information

• Institution name: Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College (OCtech)
• Address: 3250 St. Matthews Road, Orangeburg, SC 29118
• Phone Number: 803-536-0311 (General Information), 803-535-1234 (Admissions)
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.octech.edu

Additional Resources

For additional information about the CNA program at OCtech, please contact the program directly to inquire about:

• Program handbooks
• Clinical requirements
• Certification procedures
• Career services

Summary and Next Steps

The Certified Nursing Assistant program at Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College provides a solid foundation for starting your healthcare career in Orangeburg, South Carolina. This one-semester certificate program equips you with the essential skills needed to provide compassionate care to patients in various healthcare settings, from hospitals to nursing homes and home care environments.

As a CNA, you’ll serve as a principal caregiver with direct patient contact, making a meaningful difference in people’s lives every day. Upon successful completion of the program, you’ll be eligible to take the state certification exam and enter a field with strong employment opportunities.

Before you decide, make sure you’re choosing the right CNA program for your goals.
Compare multiple schools, costs, and start dates near you.