Top 13 CNA Programs in San Diego

Welcome to another post where we’ll be listing the best CNA programs in San Diego. To us, it’s very important we provide you with value added content. We want to make sure when it comes time for you to choose a CNA program, you have all the information you need. Through our research, we have located a lot of certified nursing assistant classes in San Diego, but not all of them provide a comprehensive curriculum. The end goal should be for you to approach the California State CNA licensing examination with complete confidence. For us to help you achieve this, we have researched and found a list of schools in San Diego we feel will provide you with the knowledge you need.

To ensure our research is thorough, we looked at the following –

• Years a school has been active.
• Student testimonials (Provided From Yelp.com)
• Average rating
• Contact information and location
• We have verified the school by calling them and asking them about their CNA program.

These CNA programs in San Diego are credible and have passed our verification process. We do urge you to contact them yourself if you have any specific questions. We have listed the schools contact information and address too. So, here’s our list of – Top 13 CNA Programs in San Diego. Don’t forget to share your feedback in the comment box below the content.

UPDATE POST – 50+ Best Nursing Schools In California – CNA, LPN, RN, And BSN

1) Pacific Health Educational Center (Rating 5/5)

Overview

Pacific Health Educational Center offers an accelerated CNA every single month. It lasts roughly 22 days and upon completion, you will be eligible to take the CA State Certification Exam. This is one of the best CNA programs in San Diego because it follows the California approved CNA curriculum. It’s designed to teach students the fundamentals of nursing.

Admission

The admission requirements are the following –

• Age 18 years or older​
• Valid State ID / California ID or Driver’s License and Social Security card / number.
• Latest Physical Health Examination & TB Tests/PPD Clearance or Chest X-ray.
• Live scan Fingerprint (tuition inclusive)
• Able to read, write, communicate & understand instructions in ENGLISH.

Tuition

Tuition fee package includes Registration, Livescan Fingerprint fee, CNA State Exam Testing fee, Comprehensive Review Classes for CNA State Exam, BLS /CPR Course, Uniform Scrubs, and Training equipment. All relevant CNA Reference books, handouts and worksheets will also be provided.

Tuition:  $ 1875.00

Contact Information

10225 Barnes Canyon Road, Suite A208
San Diego, CA 92121
Tel:  858 – 658-0362 / 858 – 658-0896
Fax:  858 – 658-0796

Testimonial

“I went to PHEC for both my CNA and HHA. I just completed the home health program today and I already miss it there!! Truly a wonderful opportunity to learn more about the healthcare field and meet great people with similar goals! The teachers here are wonderful, you learn so much more than the content alone, you learn from shared real life experiences and open discussions. I want to get all of my continuing Education Units with Pacific Health Educational Center! They make the experience of learning enjoyable, and one that you won’t forget!”

2) San Diego Medical College (Rating 5/5)

Overview

The San Diego Medical College has recently been approved to provide CNA & HHA CEu classes. On Yelp, it’s one of the best CNA certification programs in San Diego. The course is an estimated 22-day program covering the fundamentals of becoming a certified nursing assistant in San Diego, CA. Once you’ve completed the program, you will be eligible to write the CA State Certification Exam.

There are classes during the day and evening. Please visit the website to find out more about their schedule.

Admission

• 16 years of age or older
• IDs
• Social Security Card
• TB Clearance & Physical Exam
• Live Scan Fingerprinting (covered)
• Free Uniforms
• Free Tutoring after hours & Week-ends
• BLS (CPR) (fee covered)
• Registration Fee

Tuition

(Enrollment Fee $185 This will include, Books, Study Materials, (Free Finger Printing:), BLS(CPR) for Health Care Providers, Uniform, FREE TUTORING on week-ends & after School) + $975 Students can make 3 payments , %0 interest. As long as the 1st Payment is first week of the program before Friday)

Students must Enroll before the class start date

Contact Information

821 Kuhn Drive #103
Chula Vista 91914
Tel: 619-9428274
Tel: 619-2710700
Fax: 619-2710700

Testimonial

“The staff at San Diego Medical college is amazing. Ms. tuba, Ms. Yvonne, and Ms. Neslie are kind, great teachers, and great mentors. They prepare you fully for the state exam and make sure you are fully prepared for both the written and skills portion. They are great people who want you to succeed and help you beyond the course in finding a job. My experience began with open arms and a very welcoming environment and I am grateful for their help!

I highly recommend San Diego Medical College to anyone seeking their CNA certification!!”

3) The Eastlake Medical College (Rating 5/5)

Overview

The Eastlake Medical College is another popular CNA school in San Diego. It offers a 20-day nursing assistant program which a student can take during the weekday, evening, or weekend. The course includes theory instruction of 56 hours in the classroom and clinical practice of 100 hours at our top clinical rotation/affiliation. After you’ve successfully past the CA State Certification Exam, Eastlake Medical College provides job placement opportunities too.

Admission

• No high school diploma required
• Minimum 16 years old to enroll
• Government Photo ID Card
• Social Security Card
• Enrollment Fee $185
• Physical Exam and TB clearance if available.

Tuition

Enrollment Fee – $185.00

CNA Tuition Fee – $975.00

You Get –

• Live Scan Fingerprint
• BLS (CPR) for Health Care Provider
• 2 Set of Scrubs/Uniform
• Textbook/Training Guide
• State Testing Handbook
• State Exam Review

Contact Information

2572 Waterline Way
Chula Vista, CA 91914
619-646-4471
619-616-5833

Testimonial

“I had a great experience here. I was lucky to have Alex as my instructor, and from what I know, majority if not all of my class passed the state NNAAP exam. I highly recommend this program. If you want to start a new venture and be guaranteed to learn a lot, take this one!”

4) International Health Group INC (Rating 4/5)

Overview

Rating as one of the top certified nursing assistant classes in San Diego. The course can be completed in 22-days. IHG will train you on the basic principles of nursing, and what the CNA’s are responsible for in a hospital setting. In this program, students will learn –

“Students learn basic anatomy and medical terminology, ethics and communication, and basic procedural skills.”

After completion, you will be eligible to write the CA State Certification Exam

Admission

Photo ID and social security card upon enrollment.

Also, need to present CPR, TB (or Xray) clearance, Physical Exam and flu record by the first day of school.

Tuition

Special tuition is $1500 and State exam fee of $100. Total payment is $1600.00
Down payment to reserve the seat upon enrollment: $300.00
On Orientation Day $600.00
By Day 8 of weekday and weekend (and by Day 16 of evening): $300 and State exam fee $100.00
By Day 22 (and Day 44 evening): $300.00

Contact Information

International Health Group, Inc.
8787 Complex Drive Suite B100
San Diego, CA 92123
Phone: (858) 278-9800
Fax: (858) 278-9818
ihgcna@gmail.com

Testimonial

“The teacher and staff that I worked with in the San Marcos class were GREAT!!! I want to mention Sherwood and Judy as they are the BEST! They cared about their students, how we were doing and how We felt we were doing. If you attend the classes, study the material and pay attention to what you miss on the tests that are given in the class- then there is no reason that you can’t succeed!

Our class had all of our students pass the state exam and the same was true for the previous class!! That should say it all! I will be telling my friends about this school and keeping them in mind for my continuing education credits that I need to do throughout the year.”

5) San Diego Continuing Education (5/5)

Overview

The San Diego Continuing Education College provides you with free CNA training, however there are costs for books, etc. You will learn all the fundamentals preparing you for nursing assistant jobs in San Diego. Length – 250-260 hours. Complete in 12 to 16 weeks

Here are some of the topics covered –

• Professionalism and ethics
• Communication and interpersonal skills
• Patients’ rights and independence
• Rehabilitative/restorative care
• Medical/surgical asepsis and standard procedures
• Emergency procedures and prevention of catastrophe
• Resident care skills and procedures
• Body mechanics and nutrition
• Vital signs, weights, and measures
• Observation and charting
• Long term care resident
• Death and dying

After you have completed the course, you will be eligible to write the State CNA Certification Exam.

Admission

Mandatory orientation is required prior to enrollment

Students will be fingerprinted by Live Scan on the first day of class. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) will review Live Scan/Department of Justice results and determine if an individual is “cleared” to continue in the program. Students who are not cleared will not be able to continue in the program. CDPH evaluates criminal convictions for any offense.

Tuition

The Job Training/Certificate Program is free; however, there are expenses of approximately $400 for books, uniform/shoes, a CPR card, physical exam, TB exam, immunizations, and state certification exam. Students are responsible for transportation to and from off-campus clinical locations.

Contact Information

San Diego Continuing Education
4343 Ocean View Boulevard
San Diego, CA 92113-1915
619.388.4956

6) Health Occupations Center (4/5)

Overview

This is a 240-hour state approved course. This center knows how important it is to have nurses in the healthcare industry. They will train you to handle patients, provide them support, and take care of their needs. After completion, you will be eligible to write the CA State Certification Exam.

Admission

A passing score on the HOC Math/English Assessment test, certification with the American Heart Association BLS for the Healthcare Provider, physical exam, and immunizations.  No HS Diploma or equivalency required for this class.

Tuition

Fee: $450.00

Additional fees required for the State Certification exam fee, and LiveScan fingerprinting.

Contact Information

9368 Oakbourne Road
Santee, CA 92071
Phone: 619.956.4300
Fax: 619.579.4779

Testimonial

“I just passed CNA state exam yesterday. I am still overwhelm and I can’t believe school days are over. It took us 2 1/2 months to finished the program and the whole class passed the state exam.

This school is so great. If you are thinking of getting your CNA, please come to this school. Mr Tony Villagomez is such a nice, supportive and funny instructor. He will take good care of you especially during your clinical hours. He will teach you all the proper ways on how to be become a CNA, as he would always say with LOVE and COMPASSION.

The tuition is way cheaper than going to some private school. I only paid $450 plus books and uniforms.”

7) Western Medical Training Center (4/5)

Overview

Western Medical offers a 44-day CNA training which will prepare you for the CA State examination. It consists of 51 hours of theory, 20 hours of lab, and 102 hours of clinical hands on training. Western medical ranks 4 out of 5 and been awarded as one of the best CNA programs in San Diego. You’ll go over the following – Bathing, checking vital signs, feeding, dressing & helping the patient to ambulate.

Admission

• 16 Years Or Older
• Valid Photo I.D (Your ID must match the name on your Social Security card state requirement)
• Social Security Card
• Physical/TB test (Recent within 30 days)
• $100.00 deposit (Applied Towards Your Tuition)
• Weekday 8:00 am – 2:30 pm (Monday – Friday) 29 Days
• Evening   4:00 pm – 8:00 pm (Monday – Friday) 44 Days
• Weekends 7:00 am – 3:30 pm (Saturday & Sunday) 22 Days

Tuition

Complete Fee: $1400.00

Here’s what’s included with the tuition –

• 174 Hours of Training
• CPR (AHA For the healthcare provider)
• Live scan Fingerprinting (Done on orientation day)
• Stethoscope
• Blood Pressure Cuff
• Gait Belt
• 2 Sets of Uniforms (Student is responsible for alterations)
• Workbook
• State Exam Handbook
• Skills and Training Videos
• CNA Practice Exam CD
• Job Placement Assistance
• Cap and Gown on Graduation Day (Borrowed)
• WMTC Graduation Tassel
• 2 Extra Review Days Before Your State Exam
• State Exam at Our Campus (Depending On Schedule)

Contact Information

Western Medical Training Center
1161 East Main Street # 205
El Cajon, CA 92021-7150
Email: kfarook@wmtc.info
Phone: (619) 241-9931
Office Phone: 619-588-0488

8) Poway Adult School (5/5)

Overview

Poway Adult School will prepare you for the healthcare industry. After, you can apply to nursing assistant jobs in San Diego. This course has been designed to streamline your career into the healthcare industry. Classes meet on Friday evenings at Del Norte High School and clinical sessions meet on Saturdays at a skilled nursing care facility in Rancho Bernardo.

Admission

Attend an orientation on December 14, 2017 at 4:00pm at Poway Adult School • Be at least 18 years of age • Provide your social security card • Provide your valid, government-issued photo identification • Complete Live Scan (fingerprinting the first week of class) • Pass basic reading placement appraisal (scheduled once you register) • provide evidence of recent flu shot • Provide a physical from doctor

Tuition

Complete Fee: $1400.00

A $450 deposit is due to register. Final Payment of $545 is due on or before January 18, 2018. Additional fees throughout the course are estimated at $300.

Contact Information

Poway Adult School
PUSD Twin Peaks Center
13626 Twin Peaks Road
Poway, CA 92064
Phone: (858) 668-4024
Fax: FAX: (858) 513-0548

9) The Nurse Academy (5/5)

Overview

The Nurse Academy provides a 19-day CNA program during the mornings. Once you have completed the training, you will be eligible to write the CA State Certification Examination. You will learn the following – taking and recording patient vital signs, assisting patients with the activities of daily living, patient bedside manner skills, charting skills and etc.

This program is offering every month.

Admission

• Must be at least 18 years old
• Must have valid ID and Social Security number
• Must pass physical exam and a TB test performed by a physician or nurse practitioner
• Must pass a background check and Live Scan Fingerprinting

Tuition

Total Fee: $1700.00

Students will receive 2 sets of uniforms, 1 gait belt, 1 blood pressure/stethoscope kit, and 1 8gb/16gb USB flash drive. Course material such as power-point presentations, practice exams/quizzes and review material will be included in the USB flash drive.

Contact Information

THE NURSE ACADEMY
2345 E 8th Street, Suite 113
National City, CA 91950
Monday – Friday 9:00AM – 5:00PM
TEL: (619) 488-3460
FAX: (619) 488-3479

10) PIMA Medical Institute (4.1/5)

Overview

With an overall rating of 4.1/5, PIMA Medical Institute offers one of the best CNA certification programs in San Diego. Nursing Assistants are responsible for supporting doctors and registered nurses during critical times. You need to be prepared, and PIMA understands this responsibility.

You will learn a broad range of subjects, including infection control, communication and interpersonal skills, safety and emergency procedures, personal care skills, psychosocial needs, basic restorative services and skills, basic nursing skills, quality improvement and more.

Admission

Potential students should have a high school diploma or recognized GED equivalent. A high school transcript or evidence of satisfactory completion of GED testing will be requested of applicants prior to starting class.

Applicants under legal age must have written approval of a parent or legal guardian. Students who are of compulsory school age may not enroll unless they have a high school diploma.

All applicants must take an entrance exam and pass with a minimum score. This requirement may be waived for applicants, except in California, with official academic transcripts or certificate showing proof of completion of an associate degree or higher. All medical degree and certificate applicants must be interviewed prior to acceptance.

Tuition

Cost: $1,577.00

Total Program Cost includes textbooks, lab supplies, uniforms and tax.

Contact Information

San Marcos
111 Campus Way
San Marcos, CA 92078
800-477-PIMA

11) Brightwood College (4.5/5) (Permanently Closed)

Overview

The CNA program at Brightwood is intended to give you the knowledge and skills you need to excel as a nursing assistant. The course is 2-months, and goes over the following units –

• Infection control
• Personal care skills and procedures
• Resident rights
• Basic body mechanics
• Nutrition
• Emergency procedures

Once you have completed the training, you will be eligible to write the CA Certification Exam. Brightwood will also help you find the best nursing assistant jobs in San Diego.

Admission

• High School Diploma
• Wonderlic test
• 2-Month Program
• Must have valid ID and Social Security number

Tuition

Total Fee: $4800.00

Covers: Scrubs, Books, lab supplies, uniforms and tax.

Contact Information

9055 Balboa Avenue
San Diego, CA 92123
(858) 279-4500

12) Healthcare Academy of California (4/5)

Overview

One of the best nursing programs in San Diego. This program can be completed in 21-days and you’ll receive your CNA nursing certification after writing the CA State Examination. You’ll gain knowledge of all the fundamentals required to become a certified nursing assistant. The skills you’ll learn as a certified nurse assistant will prepare you for a long-term career in the healthcare industry. Some of the best RNs started as CNAs.

Admission

Current CA Drivers License or Government ID
Social Security Card
Current Physical & TB (within the last 12 months)
Deposit to reserve your seat
EMT Students must have high school diploma or GED

Tuition

Total Fee: $1700.00

• Nursing Textbook & Workbook
• 2-sets of scrubs
• LiveScan Fingerprints
• State Manual
• State Exam Fee & Registration

Contact Information

2420 Vista Way Suite 215
Oceanside CA 92054
North County San Diego
Phone: (760) 232-4050
info@HealthcareAcademyCa.com

13) MiraCosta College (3.5/5)

Overview

MiraCosta College has been offering the certified nursing assistant program since 1987. Hundreds of students have passed the course and been certified as CNA’s throughout California. The course covers all the fundamentals required for you to become a certified nursing assistant. Not only that, but after completing the course, you will be eligible to write the CA State certification exam.

This course covers basic nursing skills, including fundamentals of nursing, nutrition, gerontology, and home nursing.

Admission

Current American Heart Association BLS Provider CPR Card (formally known as the HealthCare Provider CPR Card)
MiraCosta College nursing physical form completed within 90 days of the first day of class
TB clearance current within one year
Current Season Flu Shot
Valid Social Security Card

Tuition

On the average, a California resident in the CNA Program spends approximately $600 for expenses. This includes tuition, the cost of books, uniforms, physical exam, tuberculosis skin test, CPR card and State exam. **The tuition is subject to change due to legislative action.

Contact Information

Oceanside Campus One
Barnard Drive., Bldg. T420
Oceanside, CA 92056
(760) 757-2121, ext. 6466