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Certified Medication Aide (CMA)

Become a Certified Medication Aide (CMA) in New
Jersey with ACE Healthcare Training Institute

If you’re already a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or Certified Home Health Aide (CHHA)
and want to take your career to the next level, becoming a Certified Medication Aide (CMA) is
a smart move. CMAs have specialized training to administer medications safely and accurately
under the supervision of a licensed nurse, making them indispensable in healthcare settings.
At ACE and Healthcare Training Institute (ACEHTI), our state-approved CMA program
provides the advanced skills and credentials you need to expand your responsibilities, increase
your earning potential, and deepen your impact on patient care.

What is a CMA?

Accreditations

Approved by the State of New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services​

2-3 Week Course

56 hours
                                                      

In-Person

The program is offered
in both Dover & Union campuses

A Certified Medication Aide is a healthcare professional trained to dispense and manage
medications in long-term care facilities, assisted living centers, and similar environments. CMAs
work closely with nurses to ensure residents receive their prescribed medications on time and
according to protocol.

Typical duties include:

  • Administering oral, topical, and inhaled medications

  • Documenting medication administration in patient records

  • Monitoring patients for side effects or adverse reactions

  • Following safety and infection control protocols

  • Communicating with the healthcare team regarding patient responses

  • Maintaining medication storage and security

CMAs do not replace nurses but play a critical role in ensuring accurate and timely medication
delivery, freeing up nursing staff to focus on other complex care tasks.

Why Become a CMA?

  • Expanded career scope — take on advanced duties beyond CNA or CHHA roles

  • Higher earning potential — CMAs often earn more than CNAs or HHAs

  • In-demand skill set — medication administration expertise is sought after in senior care

and long-term facilities

  • Career growth pathway — CMA certification can be a stepping stone toward becoming

an LPN or RN

  • Improved patient care — directly contribute to treatment adherence and health

outcomes

CMA Salary & Job Outlook in New Jersey

While salaries vary by facility and experience, CMAs in New Jersey typically earn between
$42,000–$48,000 per year,
with opportunities for overtime pay.
Demand for CMAs is expected to grow steadily as the senior population increases and healthcare
providers seek skilled professionals to support medication management in care facilities.

What You’ll Learn at ACEHTI

Our CMA training is designed for certified CNAs and CHHAs who want to broaden their skills.
The program combines classroom learning with practical, hands-on training in:
• Medication classifications and uses
• Proper medication administration techniques
• Reading and interpreting medication orders
• Legal and ethical responsibilities in medication administration
• Documentation and record-keeping standards
• Identifying and responding to side effects
• Infection control and safety procedures
Upon successful completion, you’ll be eligible to take the New Jersey Medication Aide
certification exam
and begin working as a CMA in approved care settings.

Why Choose ACEHTI for CMA Training?

  • State-approved program recognized throughout New Jersey

  • Convenient schedules — day, evening, and weekend classes

  • Experienced instructors with extensive clinical backgrounds

  • Hands-on training for real-world readiness

  • Affordable tuition with flexible payment options

  • Job placement support to help you find CMA roles quickly

  • Candidacy Status with the Middle States Commission on Secondary Schools (MSA-

CSS) – a mark of educational quality and institutional advancement.

  • Approved by State of New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services

Admission Requirements

To enroll in the CMA program at ACEHTI, you must:

  • Hold a current, active CNA or CHHA certification in New Jersey

  • Have at least six months of experience working in a licensed healthcare facility

  • Provide proof of immunizations and pass required health screenings

  • Complete a background check as required by state regulations

Program Format & Duration

Location: ACEHTI Dover and Union – New Jersey

  • Delivery Format: In-Person Only

  • Length: 2-3 Week Course - 56 hours

Start Your CMA Journey Today

If you’re ready to move beyond the basics and take on a more advanced role in patient care, ACEHTI’s CMA program is the next step.


Call us: Dover Campus: (973) 366-7171
Union Campus: (908) 851-2700
Visit us: www.acehti.com
Location: Union, NJ

Next CMA classes starting soon — secure your seat today.

Contact Us to Get Started

Have questions or need help choosing a program? Call our Dover campus at (973) 366-7171 or our Union campus at (908) 851-2700, or fill out the form below to connect with our Admissions Team.

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