CNA Classes & Programs in Bakersfield, California
Get Information from CNA Programs in Bakersfield and Nearby
Bakersfield offers 13 CNA programs, providing a range of options for those interested in entering the healthcare field. This California city, located in Kern County, gives aspiring nursing assistants multiple paths to state certification through traditional, online, and accelerated courses. With both classroom and hands-on learning opportunities, prospective students can choose a program that fits their schedule and career goals.
In addition to standard offerings, Bakersfield includes free CNA classes, online programs, and accelerated courses for those seeking a faster route into the workforce. Local CNA training programs are designed to meet California’s certification requirements and prepare students for employment in various settings. Graduates benefit from connections with area hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies that regularly hire newly certified CNAs.
In the Bakersfield area, CNAs earn around $38,830 per year. This reflects local wage levels for certified nursing assistants as reported in recent data. Those completing CNA classes in Bakersfield are positioned to pursue roles across the city’s diverse healthcare facilities.
Quick Facts About Bakersfield
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Population404,321Residents
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CNA Programs13State-approved Programs
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Median Income$73,827Median Annual Income
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CNA Hourly Rate$18.67Median Hourly Rate
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CNA Yearly Salary$38,830Median Annual Salary
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Facilities36CMS Healthcare Facilities10 Nursing Homes • 6 Hospitals • 20 Home Health Agencies
Get Information from CNA Programs in Bakersfield and Nearby
Schools in Bakersfield and nearby are actively seeking qualified students. Fill out one quick form below to receive information directly from multiple accredited CNA programs.
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Browse CNA Classes in Bakersfield
Bakersfield offers 13 CNA programs that prepare students for California CNA certification, with pathways such as accelerated classes, free CNA training, and online options. These CNA classes enable candidates to qualify for the state exam while building practical skills needed for entry into healthcare careers. Local demand for CNAs remains steady, providing employment opportunities throughout Bakersfield where certified assistants are needed in patient care.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: available in Bakersfield through various funding sources including employer sponsorship and grants.
Accelerated programs: available in Bakersfield and are usually 4-week programs, sometimes 3 or 5 weeks.
Online programs: Some classes in Bakersfield offer online coursework combined with local clinical training.
Unitek Training Healthcare
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Academy of Health Careers
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Kern High School District
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Kern Valley Career Center
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High Desert Medical College
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Elliott Healthcare Services
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Christian Central Valley College
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Cellan Education Resources
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Bakersfield College - Mcfarland Learning Center
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Bakersfield College - Southwest
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Bakersfield Adult School
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Bakersfield College
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Academy of Health Careers
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CNA Employment Opportunities in Bakersfield
CNA Salary Information
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Annual Salary$38,830Median Yearly Pay
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Hourly Rate$18.67Median Per Hour
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Available Jobs1,660CNA Positions
In the Bakersfield region, approximately 1,660 CNAs are employed according to recent data. The city’s healthcare sector consistently requires new certified nursing assistants to staff hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies across diverse care settings. Job prospects remain steady as facilities continue to recruit qualified individuals for essential patient support roles.
The CNA salary in Bakersfield is in line with regional wage levels. In the Bakersfield area, CNAs earn around $38,830 per year or $18.67 per hour based on BLS OEWS (May 2023) data. This local median is somewhat lower than the statewide California figure of $45,170 annually but provides a useful benchmark for entry-level healthcare professionals in the city.
Bakersfield features a variety of CMS-certified employers offering opportunities for CNAs. Notable examples include Rosewood Health Facility (a 79-bed nonprofit facility), Kern River Transitional Care (with 140 beds), and San Joaquin Nursing Center and Rehabilitation Center (99 beds). Hospitals such as Mercy Hospital and Kern Medical Center also play significant roles as major regional employers. Home health agencies like Mercy-Memorial Home Health further diversify job settings available to new CNAs within Bakersfield.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Working in Nearby Cities
Looking beyond Bakersfield? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Porterville, Delano, Wasco, Arvin, and Santa Clarita, or browse the California 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.
Nursing Homes Hiring CNAs in Bakersfield (10 facilities)
10 nursing homes in Bakersfield providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
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Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Bakersfield (6 facilities)
6 hospitals in Bakersfield offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
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Home Health Agencies Hiring CNAs in Bakersfield (20 facilities)
20 home health agencies in Bakersfield providing CNA career opportunities. Source: CMS home health agencies (July 2025)
Mercy-Memorial Home Health
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Adventist Health Home Care Services
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Friendly Nurses Home Health Care, Inc.
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Pro Nursing Home Care, Inc
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Purpose Driven Home Health, Llc
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Requirements to Work as a CNA in Bakersfield, CA
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Bakersfield, you must meet the statewide CNA requirements set by California. These include completing a California Department of Public Health (CDPH)–approved Nurse Assistant Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP), passing the state-approved competency examination administered by Credentia or D&SDT-Headmaster, and being listed on the California Nurse Aide Registry.
- At least 160 total hours of training (60 classroom hours and 100 supervised clinical hours in a licensed skilled nursing facility) — the highest requirement in the nation
- Completion of 16 hours of required instruction before any direct resident contact
- Criminal background check through California DOJ and FBI Live Scan
- Passing both the knowledge test (70 questions: 60 multiple-choice + 10 reading comprehension, 120 minutes) and the skills evaluation (five randomly selected skills within 25 minutes)
- Up to three attempts per component within two years of completing training before retraining is required
- Placement on the California Nurse Aide Registry maintained by CDPH
Once certified, you can work in skilled nursing facilities, hospitals, home health agencies, and other licensed healthcare settings throughout Bakersfield and across California. CNAs must complete 48 hours of approved continuing education every 24 months to maintain active certification.
Already certified in another state? California offers certification by equivalency for out-of-state CNAs who hold active certification in good standing and meet federal OBRA training standards. Additional documentation, background checks, or testing may be required. Learn more in our CNA License Reciprocity in California guide.
For complete details on training programs, testing procedures, renewal requirements, and maintaining active registry status, see our comprehensive CNA License & Registration in California 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
Frequently Asked Questions about CNA Classes in Bakersfield
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Bakersfield?
Most CNA programs in Bakersfield 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 Bakersfield?
Tuition typically ranges from $800–$1,500, though may be higher depending on the program. Some schools and healthcare employers may cover the cost or reimburse you after hiring.
Are there free CNA classes in Bakersfield?
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 Bakersfield?
Several schools offer hybrid options with online coursework and in-person clinical training at local healthcare facilities.
Are there any 4-weeks CNA classes in Bakersfield?
Yes, some schools in Bakersfield or nearby areas may offer accelerated CNA programs that can be completed in as little as 4 weeks, depending on class schedules and clinical requirements.
Which nearby cities are there for CNA classes and job opportunities?
Near Bakersfield there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Porterville, Delano, Wasco, Arvin, and Santa Clarita. You can also look at the California state page to find more.
How do I get listed on the California CNA registry?
To work as a CNA in California, you must be added to the official state registry. See our California CNA registry guide for step-by-step instructions.
Where do CNAs work in Bakersfield?
CNAs in Bakersfield are employed in hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, and other healthcare facilities. Many also use their CNA experience as a stepping stone to LPN or RN careers.
Information Accuracy: Requirements, salary data, and other information are carefully compiled and based on the latest available sources, but may change. Please verify with official sources before making decisions. If you spot a mistake, let us know.