Online CNA Classes in California: Top School Review

A Closer Look at Online CNA Classes in California

There are lots of online CNA classes in California to choose from. How those programs deliver their online content, however, varies from program to program. Some offer their nursing theory courses entirely online (via live-streamed class sessions, in most cases) while others combine online coursework with campus-based classes and skills labs. All CNA programs in California – online or not – additionally include face-to-face clinical practice experiences in program-approved medical facilities, something that’s mandated by the state to qualify students to obtain their California CNA certifications.

Here are profiles of three current online CNA classes in California to give you a good idea of what you can expect to find during your program search:

Responding to Common Questions from CNA Students

While the spotlights above have likely answered many of the questions you have about online CNA classes in California, they’ve probably raised a few as well. To help you out in that regard, here are the answers to five of the most commonly asked questions by prospective certified nursing assistant students.

What skills do you learn in CNA classes in California?

In simple terms, online CNA classes in California provide students with the knowledge and skills needed for competent nursing assistant practice in the full range of healthcare settings. That’s the same knowledge and skills set needed to pass the examination required to gain state CNA certification. Common skills topics covered in CNA training include:

• patient safety
• wound treatment
• cleanliness
• help with day-to-day care
• communications skills
• activities and exercise for patients based on ability
• nutrition and hydration
• digestion and elimination
• mental health issues
• patient care in special situations

How much do CNA classes cost in California?

Becoming a nursing assistant offers one of the most affordable entryways into a career in healthcare. Nevertheless, the costs of online CNA classes can vary widely, as shown by the figures mentioned in the spotlights above and programs listed just below. In general terms, CNA students in California will find program price tags ranging from slightly over $700 to $3,000 or more. The biggest factor impacting costs is whether a program is offered by a public or private school. Private school programs tend to charge significantly more for their classes. But it’s important to remember that these private programs often provide substantial financial aid resources to their students to help pay for their training. (More on financial aid opportunities in the next FAQ.)

Glendale Community College – Certified Nursing Certificate Program

Total Cost: $747.00

Northern California Nursing Academy – Online Nurse Assistant

Total Cost: $2,170.00

Trinity School of Nursing – Nurse Assistant Program

Total Cost: $2,225.00

Where can I get help paying for my CNA classes in California?

Many traditional forms of financial aid are not available to students in online CNA classes in California. That’s because many financial aid sources require programs to be offered in for-credit formats, and very few (if any) California CNA programs are. Nevertheless, you may be able to find funding for your nursing assistant training through short-term loans, payment plans, and even scholarships and grants. And, as we mentioned earlier, private schools quite often provide their own financial aid resources directly to their nursing assistant students, so be sure to speak with a program representative to see what help is available.

How long do CNA classes in California take to finish?

Another major benefit of CNA training (along with affordability) is that is doesn’t take long to complete. Generally speaking, most students in online CNA classes in California will complete their programs in six to 10 weeks of full-time study or 12 to 16 weeks of part-time study. In most cases, full-time programs require attending classes via live stream weekdays during the day or in the evening. Part-time programs often feature classes scheduled on the weekends.

In terms of clock hours, online CNA classes in California commonly consist of 160 total hours (sometimes slightly more) that include 60 hours of class time and 100 clinical practice hours taken at program-approved medical facilities. Be aware, though, that many programs claiming a total of 160 clock hours also include required attendance in lab sessions that can add 15 hours to your total program length.

How can I tell if a CNA class in California is a good one?

There are a couple of items you can check on that indicate program quality. First and foremost is to confirm that a program is approved by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), which you can do on this CDPH website. You can also check a program’s current institutional accreditation status. Institutional accreditation concerns the academic integrity of a school overall and is administered by a number of U.S. Department of Education recognized independent regional and national accrediting agencies. You’ll usually find accreditation information on school and program websites.

Salary Trends & Career Forecast for CNAs in California

Certified nursing assistants (CNAs) in California are well-positioned for career growth and earnings. The CNA job growth rate in California is 14.30%, more than three times the national average of 4.20%. This means CNAs in California may find it easier to apply for jobs and have more professional development opportunities, whether through employer-reimbursed continuing education courses or promotions into leadership roles. The salary range in California is also quite favorable, averaging between $37,800 and $59,490. Certain areas in the state exceed this range. For example, CNAs in the San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward and San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara areas can earn over $70,000 a year. In addition to location, education and experience can impact earnings. To earn a salary in the 90th percentile, CNAs might consider taking on leadership responsibilities at work or enrolling in classes in a specific nursing specialty.