Certified Nurses Assistant (CNA) Program
A state-approved CNA program providing structured training for patient-care roles in hospitals and facilities across California.
Take the first step toward your healthcare career today.
Our California state-approved CNA program prepares students with the foundational knowledge and patient-care skills used in skilled nursing facilities and long-term care settings. We combine theory, clinical practice, and supportive instruction to guide students toward successful entry into the healthcare workforce.
Program Objective
The objective of this program is to train students for entry-level CNA roles by teaching core patient-care procedures, communication skills, safety practices, and the responsibilities outlined by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). Graduates become eligible to take the state CNA certification exam after completing all program requirements.
Why Choose CNEI
California Nurses Educational Institute
CNEI has trained Certified Nurses for over 40 years. Our training legacy, our experienced instructors and our commitment to the success of our students is a proven training model that will prepare you for success as a healthcare professional.
Supportive Instruction
We offer an effective, step-by-step training path designed to help students build confidence in essential CNA procedures and patient-care responsibilities.
Hands-On Skills
Our program includes hands-on skills-lab practice, safety, vital signs, CPR basics, body mechanics, and daily patient-care tasks required to successfully perform the CNA role.
Clinical Hours
Students complete supervised clinical rotations in approved nursing facilities, gaining practical experience with patient interactions, safety routines, and care documentation.
Exam Readiness
Our curriculum aligns with the California CNA certification exam, helping students prepare through structured instruction, clinical practice, and exam-focused skill development.
Program Details (Certified Nurses Assistant)
Program Description
Our CNA program includes 60 hours of classroom instruction and 100 hours of supervised clinical training in approved healthcare facilities. Students learn essential patient-care skills under licensed nursing supervision following California Department of Public Health (CDPH) standards. After completing all program requirements, students become eligible to take the California state CNA exam, administered at CNEI as a recognized testing center.
Requirements
To complete the CNA program, students must meet the following requirements:
- High school diploma or GED
- Completion of 60 hours of theory and 100 hours of clinical training
- Minimum age of 17
- Criminal record clearance
- Valid California ID or driver’s license
- Passing academic score of 70% or higher, including the final exam
- Successful Live Scan submission
- Proof of state-mandated vaccinations for clinical participation
Financial Aid for CNA Students
While federal financial aid does not apply to the CNA program, CNEI offers flexible payment plan options to help students manage tuition costs. Our admissions team helps students explore available payment solutions before starting the program.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Certified Nurses Assistant (CNA) Program - CNEI
Career Support
Our team supports students with externship placement, resume preparation, interview guidance, and job search resources. While employment is not guaranteed, we help students connect with skilled nursing facilities, clinics, and healthcare organizations across Riverside and San Bernardino Counties.
What skills will I learn in the CNA program?
Students learn patient-care procedures, infection control, vital signs, body mechanics, nutrition support, communication skills, and documentation techniques required in skilled nursing settings.
How long does the CNA program take to complete?
The program can be completed in 6 weeks (day), 13 weeks (evening), or 14 weeks (weekend), with a total of 160 hours.
Is the CNA program approved in California?
Yes. Our program is approved by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), and CNEI is an authorized CNA testing site.
Does the program include clinical experience?
Yes. Students complete 100 hours of supervised clinical training at approved healthcare facilities throughout the Coachella Valley.
What are the admission requirements?
Students must be at least 17, have a high school diploma or GED, complete a background check, provide vaccination records, and meet Live Scan requirements.
What job opportunities are available after graduation?
Graduates commonly work in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, rehabilitation centers, assisted-living facilities, and home-care agencies across Riverside and San Bernardino Counties.
Does this program prepare me for the CNA exam?
Yes. Our curriculum follows CDPH requirements and includes the skills and knowledge needed to take the state CNA exam.
What is the salary range for CNAs in California?
CNAs in California earn between $28,900 and $52,650 per year, depending on experience and location.
What supplies do I need for the program?
CNEI provides required supplies, including uniforms for clinical training. Additional materials will be shared through the student portal.
Do students come from nearby cities?
Yes. Many students attend from Palm Springs, Palm Desert, Cathedral City, Indio, Desert Hot Springs, and other Coachella Valley communities.
Students from Across Southern California
Students join our CNA program from Palm Springs, Cathedral City, Palm Desert, Indio, Desert Hot Springs, and surrounding Riverside and San Bernardino county communities. CNEI is proud to serve learners across Southern California.
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