The demand for caring certified nursing assistants (CNAs) has continued to rise rapidly across the healthcare field. In fact, according to California's Employment Development Department, CNA job growth is expected to increase by 14.3% in the state from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average job growth across all sectors. This projected growth, paired with a substantial aging population and an increased need for long-term care services, demonstrates the value of CNA skills now and in the future.
CNAs work closely under RNs and doctors to provide compassionate, hands-on patient care in hospitals, nursing homes, and other facilities. Their duties range from assisting with activities associated with daily living to monitoring vitals and reporting status changes. Before these duties can be performed, however, the first step is enrolling in a high-quality CNA certification course. Read below for five of the top-ranked CNA training programs available in Chula Vista, California.
1. San Diego Medical College
San Diego Medical College provides an in-depth 22-day CNA training program that covers all state and federal requirements to become a nursing assistant. With 60 hours of theory, 100 hours of clinical practice at local facilities, and 20 hours of lab training, students are offered well-rounded preparation for their future careers. This program has an exceptional 99% pass rate for the certification exam due to the high-quality curriculum, experienced instructors, and onsite testing availability. Job placement assistance is also provided to graduates.
Program Details
- Cost: $1,500
- Program Length: 22 days
- Prerequisites: Photo ID, Social Security card, and an enrollment fee
Contact Details
- Address: 821 Kuhn Dr Suite 103, Chula Vista, CA 91914
- Phone: 619-271-0700
2. Healthcare Science Academy
Healthcare Science Academy is an excellent choice for those seeking an accelerated 16-day CNA certification program in Chula Vista, California. The training program is approved by the California Department of Health and offers over 100 hours of instruction, including lab practice and clinical rotations. With flexible start dates, affordable tuition options, scholarships, and partnerships with healthcare sites for hands-on practice, Healthcare Science Academy empowers students to develop skills ranging from patient care to charting and reporting.
Program Details
- Cost: $1,900
- Program Length: 16 days
- Prerequisites: Photo ID, Social Security card, age 16+, $350 enrollment fee
Contact Details
- Address: 2086 Otay Lakes Rd Suite 201, Chula Vista, CA 91913
- Phone: (619) 882-0421
3. Dalrada Career Institute
Dalrada Career Institute provides an intensive 22-day CNA training program focused on compassionate patient care and communication abilities. Experienced nurse instructors oversee training in skills such as dressing, bathing, and feeding patients, as well as technical skills like diagnostic procedures. The course is approved by the California Department of Health and prepares students specifically for the CNA certification exam. Graduates can take the exam onsite at Dalrada, which has high first-time pass rates.
Program Details
- Cost: Not listed
- Program Length: 22 days
- Prerequisites: Photo ID, Social Security card, $250 enrollment fee
Contact Details
- Address: 542 Broadway Suite T, Chula Vista, CA 91910
- Phone: (619)745-6088
4. Healthcare Academy of California
With flexible weekday and weekend scheduling, Healthcare Academy of California's 23-day program is accessible for aspiring CNAs with varying commitments. Students are prepared to deliver empathetic hands-on care in hospitals, nursing facilities, private homes, and more. The curriculum aligns with federal and state skill requirements, including patient assessments, safety procedures, charting, and reporting. Additionally, experienced faculty members provide a supportive environment with one-on-one mentoring tailored to each student's strengths.
Program Details
- Cost: $2,197
- Program Length: 23 days
- Prerequisites: Photo ID, Social Security card, $250 enrollment fee
Contact Details
- Address: 410 S Melrose Dr Suite 205, Vista, CA 92081
- Phone: (760) 232-4050
5. Western Medical Training Center
Western Medical's accelerated 6-12 week CNA program offers a fast-track solution with 174 hours of total training. This includes 60 theory hours, 104 clinical hours, 10 lab hours, and focused exam drill practice. With high student satisfaction rates in large part due to dedicated instructors, flexibility in clinical scheduling, and a robust alumni job network, Western Medical empowers pre-health students to become certified for in-demand healthcare roles. The program has an over 95% exam pass rate, which leads to rewarding careers for graduates.
Program Details
- Cost: $1,500
- Program Length: 6-12 weeks
- Prerequisites: Not listed
Contact Details
- Address: 1161 E Main St #205, El Cajon, CA 92021
- Phone: 833-258-2229
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for CNAs in Chula Vista and surrounding areas?
The job growth for CNAs is positive in Chula Vista and Southern California more broadly. Due to an aging population and increased demand for care facilities, the region expects to see an over 10% expansion in CNA jobs through 2030 per state labor statistics. Graduates of local training programs enjoy abundant employment options.
What types of work settings do CNAs work in around Chula Vista?
While hospitals employ a significant number of CNAs, the most common workplaces in metro San Diego are nursing homes, assisted living communities, retirement facilities, and home health agencies where bedside elderly care is required daily. There are dozens of such facilities throughout Chula Vista and neighboring cities that are hiring CNAs.
What is the average pay range for CNAs in San Diego County?
The typical entry-level CNA annual salary in San Diego County ranges from $30,000 to $35,000 on average. After accumulating years of experience assisting RNs and LPNs, CNA salaries can progress to $40,000 per year or higher at healthcare sites with strong wage scales or worker shortages.
Why are accelerated CNA programs ideal for entering this career field?
The shorter commitment of 3-6 weeks for full-time accelerated CNA programs helps students minimize periods without income while quickly becoming equipped with the necessary skills for in-demand healthcare jobs. The intensive course format also promotes focused retention of care techniques taught through hands-on skills labs and clinical rotations included in most area programs. Accelerated programs readily prepare graduates for rewarding healthcare careers.
