CNA Classes & Programs in Surprise, Arizona
2 state-approved CNA programs in Surprise. Free, 4-week and online programs are offered in other Arizona cities.
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CNA training in Surprise
- Programs
- 2
- state-approved
- Median CNA pay
- $40,610
- $19.52 an hour
- CNA jobs
- 10,420
- in the Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale region
- Healthcare facilities
- 4
- 2 nursing homes and 2 hospitals
- Population
- 145,591
- residents
Sources: BLS OEWS (May 2023), CMS (July 2025).
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What brings you here?
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In Surprise, 2 state-approved CNA programs are available for individuals pursuing entry into Arizona's healthcare sector. Located within the greater Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale metro area, Surprise allows aspiring nursing assistants convenient access to classroom-based education designed to meet state requirements while supporting career growth locally.
The city's current offerings do not include online or free options; both programs focus on providing foundational skills necessary for Arizona certification and preparing graduates for hands-on caregiving roles at regional healthcare organizations. Students can expect instruction tailored toward real-world workplace expectations found throughout Surprise’s medical community.
Salaries for CNAs working across the Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale area are about $40,610. Completing a Surprise-based program enables candidates to pursue roles at local hospitals or skilled nursing facilities upon graduation from their chosen course of study.
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Browse CNA Classes in Surprise
Surprise offers 2 CNA classes that train students specifically for Arizona certification while building practical skills essential to success as an entry-level caregiver meeting local demand where career opportunities continue to grow throughout the community’s expanding network of providers.
Program Types in Surprise
| Type | In Surprise | Where to look |
|---|---|---|
| Free or employer-paid | Not in Surprise | See other Arizona cities → |
| 4-week (accelerated) | Not in Surprise | See other Arizona cities → |
| Online or hybrid | Not in Surprise | See other Arizona cities → |
| Evening or weekend | Not in Surprise | See other Arizona cities → |
A program can appear under more than one type. Counts come from each program's published details.
Both CNA programs in Surprise
Lowest published cost first.
West-Mec
Cost–Hours–Weeks–
- Address
- 13201 West Grand Avenue, Surprise, AZ 85374
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (623) 877-6914
West-MEC’s Nursing Services program prepares students with hands-on training and simulation to become entry-level nursing assistants, including instruction in basic care, vital signs, and patient-centered skills. Graduates are prepared to pursue industry credentials such as the Headmaster exam.
Visit websiteWillow Canyon High School Dysart Unified School District
Cost–Hours–Weeks–
- Address
- 17901 West Lunberg Street, Surprise, AZ 85388
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (623) 523-8000
Dysart’s senior-level Nursing Professions program provides classroom, skills lab, and clinical experiences with partners such as Banner, Sun Health, and Hospice of the Valley. The year-long double-block class runs Monday–Friday and requires travel for clinical hours.
Visit websiteCost, hours and weeks are each school's published figures, so confirm them with the school. A dash means the school has not published it.
Not sure which of the 2 programs fits you?
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Explore CNA Programs in Other Cities
Nearby cities
Major Arizona cities
All Arizona cities with CNA programs →CNA Employment Opportunities in Surprise
| Median annual pay | $40,610 |
|---|---|
| Median hourly pay | $19.52 |
| CNA jobs in the region | 10,420 |
| Salary region | Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale |
Source: BLS OEWS (May 2023), median wages for nursing assistants.
In the Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale region, approximately 10,420 certified nursing assistants support patient care needs across multiple types of healthcare organizations according to recent data sources. This sizable workforce serves diverse populations ranging from older adults requiring rehabilitation services to individuals needing behavioral health support within dedicated facilities nearby.
CNA salary in Surprise is best reflected by regional figures: In the Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale metro area, CNAs earn a median of $40,610 annually or about $19.52 per hour based on BLS OEWS (May 2023) data; this slightly surpasses Arizona’s statewide median wage benchmark of $39,920 per year—a positive sign for those entering direct-care roles following completion of their training programs locally.
The CMS-certified facility landscape features major employers such as Surprise Health and Rehabilitation Center (100 beds) along with Sante of Surprise (70 beds), each recognized as established providers offering skilled nursing services within city limits. Hospital-based behavioral health options include Avenir Behavioral Health Center and Destiny Springs Healthcare—both located directly in Surprise—providing additional avenues for CNA jobs in Surprise following credentialing success.
Nursing Homes Hiring CNAs in Surprise (2 facilities)
2 nursing homes in Surprise providing CNA employment opportunities. Showing top 2 facilities ranked by CNA hours per resident per day (as provided by official data). Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
| Nursing home | Beds | CNA hrs/day |
|---|---|---|
| Surprise Health And Rehabilitation Center14660 West Parkwood Drive(623) 546-5030Map | 100 | 2.8 |
| Sante Of Surprise14775 West Yorkshire Drive(623) 594-5050Map | 70 | 2.2 |
Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Surprise (2 facilities)
2 hospitals in Surprise offering CNA employment opportunities. Showing top 2 facilities ranked by overall rating (as provided by official data). Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
| Hospital | Rating |
|---|---|
| Avenir Behavioral Health CenterPsychiatric · 16561 North Parkview Place(480) 900-3626Map | – |
| Destiny Springs HealthcarePsychiatric · 17300 North Dysart Road(623) 233-3000Map | – |
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Working in Nearby Cities and Other States
Working in Nearby Cities
Looking beyond Surprise? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Glendale, Chandler, Gilbert, Scottsdale, and Peoria, or browse the Arizona CNA programs page for more options.
Working in Other States
Planning to move or gain experience working in other states? Use our reciprocity guide to transfer your existing CNA license across states.
Working Through Agencies or as a Travel CNA
If you're already certified and would like to work through an agency or work as a travel CNA, browse here our directory of CNA agencies or simply fill out this short form to get matched with 3 personalized CNA agencies that can help you land your next job.
Requirements to Work as a CNA in Surprise, AZ
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Surprise, you must meet the statewide CNA requirements set by Arizona. These include completing an Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS)–approved Nursing Assistant Training Program, passing the Arizona Nurse Aide Competency Examination administered by D&SDT-Headmaster, and being listed on the Arizona Nurse Aide Registry.
- At least 120 total hours of training (80 classroom and skills lab hours, 40 supervised clinical hours in a licensed nursing facility)
- Completion of 16 hours of required OBRA instruction before any direct resident contact
- Background screening per Arizona requirements
- Passing both the knowledge test (75 multiple-choice questions) and the skills evaluation (3-4 randomly selected skills)
- Up to three attempts per component within two years of completing training; 45-day waiting period required after three failed knowledge test attempts
- Placement on the Arizona Nurse Aide Registry maintained by ADHS
Once certified, you can work in nursing homes, hospitals, assisted living facilities, home health agencies, and other licensed healthcare settings throughout Surprise and across Arizona. CNAs must complete 16 hours of paid nursing work and 24 hours of in-service training every 24 months to maintain active certification.
Already certified in another state? Arizona offers certification by endorsement for out-of-state CNAs who hold active certification in good standing and meet federal OBRA training standards. Additional documentation may be required. Learn more in our CNA License Reciprocity in Arizona guide.
For complete details on training programs, testing procedures, renewal requirements, and maintaining active registry status, see our comprehensive CNA License & Registration in Arizona guide.
Career Growth & Advancement
Many CNAs use their experience as a stepping stone toward advanced healthcare careers:
- Specialized certifications (e.g., dementia care, medication aide)
- Promotion into shift supervisor or training coordinator roles
- Bridge programs to become an LPN or RN
- Opportunities in healthcare administration or education
Ready to start? Get info from CNA schools in Surprise.
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Frequently Asked Questions about CNA Classes in Surprise
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Surprise?
Most CNA programs in Surprise can be completed in 4–12 weeks, depending on whether you choose a traditional, accelerated, or weekend schedule.
How much does CNA training cost in Surprise?
Prices differ by school, so ask the CNA programs in Surprise directly for their current costs. Some schools and healthcare employers may cover the cost or reimburse you after hiring.
Are there free CNA classes in Surprise?
No program in Surprise is listed as free. Free CNA classes are offered in other Arizona cities. Some hospitals, nursing homes, and workforce programs may offer free CNA training in exchange for a work commitment.
Are there online CNA training options available in Surprise?
No program in Surprise is listed with online classes. Online and hybrid programs are offered in other Arizona cities. Clinical training is always in person.
Are there any 4-week CNA classes in Surprise?
No 4-week program is listed in Surprise. 4-week CNA programs are offered in other Arizona cities, usually in 3 to 5 weeks.
Which nearby cities are there for CNA classes and job opportunities?
Near Surprise there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Glendale, Chandler, Gilbert, Scottsdale and Peoria. You can also look at the Arizona state page to find more.
How do I get listed on the Arizona CNA registry?
To work as a CNA in Arizona, you must be added to the official state registry. See our Arizona CNA registry guide for step-by-step instructions.
Where do CNAs work in Surprise?
CNAs in Surprise are employed in hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, and other healthcare facilities. CMS lists 2 nursing homes and 2 hospitals in Surprise. Many also use their CNA experience as a stepping stone to LPN or RN careers.
Information accuracy: requirements, salary data and other information are compiled from official sources but can change. Please confirm with the school or the state before making decisions. If you spot a mistake, let us know.