Best CNA Schools in San Francisco, CA: Top 5 Choices in 2025

Table of Contents[show]

Evergreen Valley College
Santa Rosa Junior College
Mission College
Modesto Junior College
American River College
Frequently Asked Questions

The certified nursing assistant (CNA) career continues to experience substantial growth in California and across the country. Amidst increases in the aging population and the need for additional medical and long-term care, the Labor Market Information Division (LMID) of California's Employment Development Department expects job growth of 14.3% over the next decade. This represents an attractive opportunity in the medical industry.

Becoming a certified CNA will set you on a successful career path that is less difficult to achieve than you might think. Nursing assistants work alongside RNs and other skilled care providers in a variety of settings. The first steps are to choose and enroll in a professional program. This list of top CNA programs in San Francisco will set you on the path to success.

1. Evergreen Valley College

3095 Yerba Buena Rd, San Jose, CA 95135 (408) 274-7900

This open-enrollment course coincides with the college's regular academic calendar. Accordingly, the CNA course lasts 14 weeks and includes 60 lecture hours, 100 clinical hours, and 40 additional hours focused on the home healthcare specialty. Although it is slightly longer than other programs on this list, the average 97% average pass rate is quite high. Best of all, students receive a comprehensive education in both theoretical and practical skills that will enable them to assist RNs and patients with confidence.

Cost: $800-900
Program Length: 14 weeks
Prerequisites: High school diploma or GED, a background check, and national ID

2. Santa Rosa Junior College

1501 Mendocino Ave, Santa Rosa, CA 95401 (707) 522-2874

This robust CNA program includes 226 total hours of in-classroom, laboratory, and practical learning in a clinical setting. The advantage of practicing skills learned in a local long-term residential facility will help you transition seamlessly into professional life after earning your certificate and passing the exam. It focuses heavily on the state Health & Safety codes, offers financial aid options, and may include additional distance learning activities.

Cost: $2500
Program Length: 10 weeks
Prerequisites: Background and health checks

3. Mission College

3000 Mission College Blvd, Santa Clara, CA 95054 (408) 855-5303

After the required orientation, you will begin the path toward the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program exam. Through this college's academic program, you will earn a certificate of completion following the NA fundamentals, laboratory, and clinical experience requirements. For California residents, this is one of the least expensive options on this list. Still, you will develop all necessary medical, monitoring, and patient care skills to become a successful CNA.

Cost: $300+
Program Length: 7 weeks
Prerequisites: High school diploma or GED, health requirements

4. Modesto Junior College

435 College Ave, Modesto, CA 95350 (209) 575-6550

This local San Francisco college offers more than one pathway toward medical assisting careers. The CNA option includes 60 hours of classroom learning and 100 additional hours of clinical education and training in a hands-on setting. This program includes everything from medical terminology to medical center teamwork and elder-focused communication skills, all of which are necessary to succeed in this competitive field.

Cost: $780+
Program Length: 16 weeks
Prerequisites: High school diploma or GED, health clearance

5. American River College

4700 College Oak Dr, Sacramento, CA 95841 (916) 484-8011

Alongside the CNA and Home Health Aide (HHA) certificate courses, this program includes California Department of Health courses on community healthcare, such as nursing home facilities. Throughout lectures and practical experiences, students will learn everything necessary to assist RNs, patients, and residents. This program also offers the unique opportunity to blend the two certificate programs together and make yourself even more flexible and attractive to potential employers after you pass the state exam.

Cost: $550+
Program Length: 6 weeks
Prerequisites: Age 18+, health clearance

The need for CNAs is continually increasing, and the relatively short certification time makes this an attractive career option for high school graduates or adults with GEDs. In California, the average hourly rate is $22.66 per hour and will likely only increase in the future. Note that earning potential is higher in San Francisco and other metropolitan areas.

More than the opportunity for a steady, dependable professional life is the satisfaction that you will feel assisting the injured, ill, infirm, and elderly in medical or residential settings. For those interested in the healthcare field, CNA programs offer a step through the door and the reward of helping others.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average salary for a CNA in San Francisco?

CNAs in San Francisco can expect to earn an average of $24.70 per hour, which is slightly higher than the national average. Of course, the actual hourly wage depends on the organization that you work for.

What are the typical working hours and conditions for CNAs in San Francisco?

Expect full-time hours and opportunities for overtime as a CNA in San Francisco. Similar to other nursing careers, assistants can work eight-hour shifts throughout the day and night. Common hours include 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM, and 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM.

What certifications or additional training are beneficial for CNAs in San Francisco?

In California, all CNAs must pass both the written and skills test after completing a state-approved educational or training program. These include both technical and practical, hands-on skills. Additional training and certification in CPR and first aid, cardiac care, geriatric or Alzheimer's care, certified hospice and palliative care assistance, or certification as a medication aide can help advance your career.

What are the career advancement opportunities and job outlook for CNAs in San Francisco?

San Francisco growth projections for CNAs match the federal projections of approximately 4%. This is largely due to the larger elderly population that requires more care in residential facilities such as nursing homes.

How can I find CNA job opportunities in San Francisco?

Discover CNA job opportunities in the area through online portals that focus on local medical industry jobs or through collaborative efforts from your school. Take a look at hospitals, clinics, assisted living facilities, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, and educational settings. Home health aide organizations also have frequent openings.

What should I consider when choosing a CNA training program in San Francisco?

Many programs exist throughout California and in the San Francisco area. Always make sure that the one you choose is recognized by the state, comes from an accredited institution, provides certification, and leads to the state nursing assistant exam. It should include both in-class subjects and hands-on, practical opportunities.