CNA Classes & Programs in Merced, California
Get Information from CNA Programs in Merced and Nearby
Merced is home to 5 CNA programs serving those interested in entering California’s healthcare workforce as certified nursing assistants. Located within California’s Central Valley region with access to varied medical resources nearby, Merced provides several educational pathways for aspiring CNAs seeking flexible learning opportunities including online courses.
CNA classes offered locally focus on preparing students for state certification through skill development tailored toward immediate job placement upon graduation. Both free program options and online formats are available—helping future caregivers balance their education with personal commitments while gaining practical experience relevant to Merced’s local employers.
In Merced’s metro area itself, CNAs typically earn around $41,010 each year according to recent salary data—reflecting current trends among entry-level caregivers working throughout Merced County communities.
Quick Facts About Merced
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Population87,686Residents
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CNA Programs5State-approved Programs
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Median Income$59,233Median Annual Income
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CNA Hourly Rate$19.71Median Hourly Rate
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CNA Yearly Salary$41,010Median Annual Salary
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Facilities8CMS Healthcare Facilities6 Nursing Homes • 1 Hospital • 1 Home Health Agencies
Get Information from CNA Programs in Merced and Nearby
Schools in Merced 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 Merced
Merced offers 5 CNA programs, including free training programs and online courses aimed at achieving California state registry placement. Each CNA class focuses on practical instruction supporting both skill mastery and exam success while qualifying graduates for jobs where CNAs are needed locally—helping meet regional demand across Merced’s growing network of medical providers.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: available in Merced through various funding sources including employer sponsorship and grants.
Accelerated programs: not available in Merced but are offered in other cities throughout California.
Online programs: Some classes in Merced offer online coursework combined with local clinical training.
MJ Nursing Assistant Training Institute
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Anberry Transitional Care
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Mj Nursing Assistant Training Institute
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Merced College
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Merced College
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CNA Employment Opportunities in Merced
CNA Salary Information
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Annual Salary$41,010Median Yearly Pay
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Hourly Rate$19.71Median Per Hour
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Available Jobs390CNA Positions
In Merced’s metro area, nearly 390 certified nursing assistants work across hospitals and long-term care centers, supporting steady local demand thanks to an expanding network of CMS-certified employers serving residents throughout this Central Valley community.
The CNA salary in Merced is best represented by localized data: In Merced’s region, CNAs typically earn around $41,010 annually or about $19.71 per hour according to BLS OEWS (May 2023). While this median wage is somewhat lower than California's statewide figure of $45,170 annually, it still reflects solid earning prospects given local cost-of-living conditions and entry requirements into this vital profession.
CNA employment options span multiple facility types including Anberry Transitional Care (120 beds), Franciscan Post-Acute Care Center (71 beds), Golden Merced Care Center (121 beds), La Sierra Care Center (68 beds), Merced Nursing & Rehabilitation Center (79 beds), as well as Mercy Medical Center—a prominent voluntary nonprofit hospital provider—and Mercy Home Care agency offering additional workplace flexibility outside institutional settings. These organizations represent key employers actively hiring new graduates equipped with current certifications throughout Merced County.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Working in Nearby Cities
Looking beyond Merced? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Los Banos, Atwater, Turlock, Madera, and Chowchilla, 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 Merced (6 facilities)
6 nursing homes in Merced providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
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Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Merced (1 facilities)
1 hospital in Merced offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
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Home Health Agencies Hiring CNAs in Merced (1 facilities)
1 home health agency in Merced providing CNA career opportunities. Source: CMS home health agencies (July 2025)
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Requirements to Work as a CNA in Merced, CA
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Merced, 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 Merced 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 Merced
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Merced?
Most CNA programs in Merced 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 Merced?
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 Merced?
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 Merced?
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 Merced?
Yes, some schools in Merced 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 Merced there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Los Banos, Atwater, Turlock, Madera, and Chowchilla. 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 Merced?
CNAs in Merced 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.