CNA Classes & Programs in Santa Ana, California
7 state-approved CNA programs in Santa Ana, including free, online, 4-week, evening and weekend options.
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CNA training in Santa Ana
- Programs
- 7
- state-approved
- Median CNA pay
- $44,690
- $21.49 an hour
- CNA jobs
- 41,860
- in the Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim region
- Healthcare facilities
- 16
- 8 nursing homes, 2 hospitals and 6 home health agencies
- Population
- 311,379
- residents
Sources: BLS OEWS (May 2023), CMS (July 2025).
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What brings you here?
Free to use. No obligation to enroll. Compare multiple programs. We may earn a fee when you request information from schools.
Santa Ana is home to 7 CNA programs designed to help residents begin careers as certified nursing assistants. This diverse city in Orange County provides a range of options for individuals interested in entering the healthcare field. With a population exceeding 300,000, aspiring CNAs have access to training pathways that support their professional goals.
Local CNA classes in Santa Ana offer flexibility, including online options and accelerated programs for those seeking quicker entry into the workforce. Additionally, students may benefit from free CNA classes available in the city. Graduates are prepared to meet state requirements and pursue roles at local hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies.
In the Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim region, CNAs earn around $44,690 annually, which is just below the statewide figure of around $45,170. Training through Santa Ana's CNA programs supports readiness for employment across a variety of healthcare settings.
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Browse CNA Classes in Santa Ana
Students in Santa Ana can choose from 7 CNA programs that prepare candidates for California certification and registry placement. Options include accelerated classes, online CNA classes, and free CNA training for those who qualify. Each program equips students with practical skills needed for success as a nursing assistant, with local demand for CNAs supporting employment opportunities throughout the area.
Program Types in Santa Ana
| Type | In Santa Ana | Where to look |
|---|---|---|
| Free or employer-paid | 1 program | Santa Ana College School of Continuing Education ↓ |
| 4-week (accelerated) | 2 programs | See them ↓ |
| Online or hybrid | 5 programs | See them ↓ |
| Evening or weekend | 3 programs | See them ↓ |
A program can appear under more than one type. Counts come from each program's published details.
All 7 CNA programs in Santa Ana
Lowest published cost first.
Santa Ana College School of Continuing Education
CostFreeHours–Weeks13
- Address
- 1530 West 17Th Street Vl-103, Santa Ana, CA 92706
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (714) 241-5737
SAC SCE runs a state‑approved, free 13‑week CNA certificate with theory, skills lab, and clinical to prepare for entry‑level patient care roles. Students attend an orientation (VHLTH 101) before enrolling in the training courses.
Visit websiteH&R Healthcare School
Cost$1,900Hours160Weeks4
- Address
- Santa Ana, CA
- Phone
- (310) 997-3114
- Schedule
- Evening classes
California-approved Nurse Assistant Training Program with 60 hours theory and 100 hours clinical, offered in-person with day (4 weeks) or evening (6 weeks) options. Tuition is 1800 plus 100 registration; small classes and job placement support.
Visit websiteLos Angeles Skills Academy
Cost$1,990Hours160Weeks4
- Address
- Santa Ana, CA
- Phone
- (213) 444-8997
- Schedule
- Evening and weekend classes
Los Angeles Skills Academy’s CNA program consists of 60 hours of online/classroom theory and 100 hours of supervised clinical training at partnered skilled nursing facilities. Multiple schedules are offered including fast track cohorts and evening or weekend options.
Visit websiteAllegiance Career Institute
Cost–Hours–Weeks–
- Address
- Santa Ana, CA
- Phone
- (714) 941-9138
Allegiance Career Institute is a state-approved CNA training provider. Contact them directly for program details and enrollment information.
Visit websiteIgc Educational Center
Cost–Hours–Weeks–
- Address
- 515 Cabrillo Park Drive Suite 205, Santa Ana, CA 92701
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (949) 394-4285
Igc Educational Center is a state-approved CNA training provider. Contact them directly for program details and enrollment information.
Visit websiteSisuCare
Cost–Hours–Weeks–
- Address
- Santa Ana, CA
- Phone
- (213) 537-8360
- Schedule
- Evening and weekend classes
Online-hybrid CNA program offering self-paced or instructor-led online theory with in-person clinical training at partner facilities near the student (clinical training commonly 103 hours). Flexible cohorts and an employer network support job connections after completion.
Visit websiteSouth Coast Post Acute
Cost–Hours–Weeks–
- Address
- Santa Ana, CA
- Phone
- (714) 546-6450
South Coast Post Acute is a state-approved CNA training provider. Contact them directly for program details and enrollment information.
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 7 programs fits you?
Free to use. No obligation to enroll. Compare multiple programs. We may earn a fee when you request information from schools.
Explore CNA Programs in Other Cities
Nearby cities
Major California cities
- Los Angeles41 programs
- San Diego20 programs
- San Jose12 programs
- San Francisco6 programs
- Fresno14 programs
- Sacramento18 programs
CNA Employment Opportunities in Santa Ana
| Median annual pay | $44,690 |
|---|---|
| Median hourly pay | $21.49 |
| CNA jobs in the region | 41,860 |
| Salary region | Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim |
Source: BLS OEWS (May 2023), median wages for nursing assistants.
In the Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim region, approximately 41,860 CNAs are employed across a broad range of healthcare settings. The demand for skilled nursing assistants remains steady in this metropolitan area as hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies continue to hire qualified staff to support patient care needs. CNA jobs in Santa Ana are available in a variety of these facilities.
The median CNA salary in Santa Ana is best represented by regional data: In the Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim metro area, CNAs earn around $44,690 per year (or $21.49 per hour), according to BLS OEWS (May 2023). This figure is slightly below the California statewide median salary of $45,170. While salaries can vary depending on specific employers and experience levels, this data offers a realistic benchmark for those considering entering the field locally. CNA salary in Santa Ana reflects these regional conditions.
Santa Ana features a diverse mix of CMS-certified healthcare facilities employing CNAs. Notable examples include South Coast Global Medical Center D/P Snf (46 beds), Town & Country (a nonprofit facility with 96 beds), and Plaza Healthcare Center (145 beds) among its eight nursing homes. Hospitals such as Orange County Global Medical Center and Coastal Communities Hospital are also major local employers. Home health agencies like Apex Home Health Care Services and Care Dimensions LLC further expand job opportunities for newly certified nursing assistants in Santa Ana.
Nursing Homes Hiring CNAs in Santa Ana (8 facilities)
8 nursing homes in Santa Ana providing CNA employment opportunities. Showing top 5 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 |
|---|---|---|
| South Coast Global Medical Center D/P Snf2701 South Bristol Street(714) 754-5454Map | 46 | 3.6 |
| Town & Country555 East Memory Lane(714) 547-7581Map | 96 | 3.0 |
| Plaza Healthcare Center1209 Hemlock Way(714) 546-1966Map | 145 | 2.6 |
| Advanced Rehab Center Of Tustin2210 E. First Street(714) 547-7091Map | 99 | 2.6 |
| St Edna Subacute And Rehabilitation Center1929 N. Fairview Street(714) 554-9700Map | 144 | 2.5 |
Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Santa Ana (2 facilities)
2 hospitals in Santa Ana offering CNA employment opportunities. Showing top 2 facilities ranked by overall rating (as provided by official data). Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
| Hospital | Rating |
|---|---|
| Orange County Global Medical CenterAcute Care Hospitals · 1001 North Tustin Avenue(714) 953-3500Map | 2/5 |
| Coastal Communities HospitalAcute Care Hospitals · 2701 S Bristol St(714) 754-5454Map | – |
Home Health Agencies Hiring CNAs in Santa Ana (6 facilities)
6 home health agencies in Santa Ana providing CNA career opportunities. Showing top 5 facilities ranked by quality rating (as provided by official data). Source: CMS home health agencies (July 2025)
| Agency | Quality |
|---|---|
| Apex Home Health Care Services520 N Main Street Ste 200(714) 527-0887Map | 4.5/5 |
| Care Dimensions Llc3401 W Sunflower Suite 200(951) 340-3300Map | 3.5/5 |
| American Stellar Home Health Services, Inc2700 North Main St., Suite 506(714) 835-5477Map | 1.5/5 |
| Green Meadows Home Health Care, Inc2204 East 4Th Street, #200(714) 838-1055Map | 1.5/5 |
| Guardian Angel Home Care Of Santa Ana, Llc2030 East 4Th Street, #132(888) 387-2620Map | – |
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 Santa Ana? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Orange, Downey, Costa Mesa, El Monte, and West Covina, 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.
Requirements to Work as a CNA in Santa Ana, CA
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Santa Ana, 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 Santa Ana 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
Ready to start? Get info from CNA schools in Santa Ana.
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Frequently Asked Questions about CNA Classes in Santa Ana
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Santa Ana?
Most CNA programs in Santa Ana can be completed in 4–12 weeks, depending on whether you choose a traditional, accelerated, or weekend schedule. The shortest published length here is 4 weeks, at H&R Healthcare School.
How much does CNA training cost in Santa Ana?
CNA programs in Santa Ana cost between $1,900 and $1,990, depending on the school. One program is free or employer-paid. The lowest-priced paid option is H&R Healthcare School at $1,900. Some schools and healthcare employers may cover the cost or reimburse you after hiring.
Are there free CNA classes in Santa Ana?
Yes. Santa Ana College School of Continuing Education offers free or employer-paid CNA training. Some hospitals, nursing homes, and workforce programs may also offer free CNA training in exchange for a work commitment.
Are there online CNA training options available in Santa Ana?
Yes. 5 programs in Santa Ana offer hybrid options, with online coursework and in-person clinical training at local healthcare facilities.
Are there any 4-week CNA classes in Santa Ana?
Yes. 2 programs in Santa Ana are accelerated. Accelerated programs usually take 3 to 5 weeks, depending on class schedules and clinical requirements.
Which nearby cities are there for CNA classes and job opportunities?
Near Santa Ana there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Orange, Downey, Costa Mesa, El Monte and West Covina. 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 Santa Ana?
CNAs in Santa Ana are employed in hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, and other healthcare facilities. CMS lists 8 nursing homes, 2 hospitals and 6 home health agencies in Santa Ana. 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.