CNA Classes & Programs in Arizona
- CNA Programs in Arizona: At-a-Glance
- Why Become a CNA in Arizona?
- Arizona CNA Training & Certification
- CNA Curriculum & Clinical Training in Arizona
- 2026 Fastest CNA Training Program Options in Arizona
- 2026 Affordable CNA Training Program Options in Arizona
- How Long Does it Take to Become a CNA in Arizona?
- Do Online CNA Programs Exist in Arizona?
- Arizona CNA Employment and Wages
- How to Choose the Right CNA Program in Arizona
- CNA vs Other Healthcare Roles in Arizona
- 2026 Updated List of Arizona Schools Offering CNA Classes
- Latest Articles & Guides
Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) play an essential role in Arizona’s healthcare system, providing hands-on care and daily support to patients in hospitals, nursing homes, and long-term care facilities. With Arizona’s growing population, particularly among older adults, trained CNAs are in steady demand across the state.
This guide provides Arizona-specific information to help you understand the requirements to become a CNA and choose the right training program.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- Arizona’s CNA training and certification requirements
- What CNA classes and clinical training include
- How long it takes to become a CNA in Arizona
- Whether online CNA training is available
- How to compare CNA programs across the state
CNA Programs in Arizona: At-a-Glance
| Category | Arizona CNA Information |
| Minimum training hours required | 120 total hours (state minimum) |
| Clinical requirement | Supervised clinical training required |
| Certification exam | Arizona Nurse Aide Competency Exam |
| State registry | Arizona Nurse Aide Registry (Arizona State Board of Nursing) |
| Typical program length | ~4–12 weeks |
| Typical total cost | $1,000–$3,000 (varies by program) |
| Average CNA salary in Arizona | About $38,000–$41,000 annually |
Why Become a CNA in Arizona?
Arizona continues to see strong demand for nursing assistants due to rapid population growth and an increasing need for long-term and elder care services. The state consistently ranks among those with the fastest-growing senior populations, which directly impacts demand for entry-level healthcare professionals such as CNAs.
According to workforce data, Arizona employs tens of thousands of nursing assistants statewide, with continued job openings driven by healthcare expansion, retirements, and workforce turnover. CNA training offers a relatively quick and inexpensive entry point into healthcare while providing valuable hands-on experience for those planning to advance into LPN or RN roles.
Arizona CNA Training & Certification
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant in Arizona, candidates must complete a state-approved CNA training program, pass the required competency exam, and be listed on the Arizona Nurse Aide Registry.
Training Requirements
Arizona requires a minimum of 120 total training hours, which include classroom instruction and supervised clinical experience. All training programs must be approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing (AZBN).
Certification Exam
After completing training, candidates must pass the Arizona Nurse Aide Competency Exam, which consists of:
- A written or oral knowledge exam
- A skills evaluation demonstrating essential CNA tasks
Both components must be passed to earn certification.
Registry & Renewal
Once certified, CNAs are listed on the Arizona Nurse Aide Registry, which employers use to verify credentials. To remain active on the registry, CNAs must meet Arizona's employment or renewal requirements within the designated timeframe.
Explore CNA program costs.
CNA Curriculum & Clinical Training in Arizona
CNA Coursework & Clinical Overview
| Training Component | What Students Learn |
| Nursing Fundamentals | Basic patient care, safety, infection control |
| Personal Care Skills | Bathing, feeding, dressing, toileting assistance |
| Vital Signs & Monitoring | Measuring and recording vital signs |
| Communication & Professionalism | Patient interaction, teamwork, ethics |
| Clinical Training | Supervised hands-on patient care practice |
Clinical training in Arizona typically takes place in nursing homes, long-term care facilities, or approved healthcare settings. Supervised clinical experience is required and is included within the 120-hour state minimum, allowing students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world environments. Learn more about CNA classes.
2026 Fastest CNA Training Program Options in Arizona
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Mohave Community College |
|
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| Chandler-Gilbert Community College |
|
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| Eastern Arizona College |
|
|
2026 Affordable CNA Training Program Options in Arizona
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Cochise County Community College District |
|
|
| Regional Center for Border Health |
| - |
| Eastern Arizona College |
|
|
How Long Does it Take to Become a CNA in Arizona?
Most CNA training programs in Arizona can be completed in approximately 4 to 12 weeks, depending on whether students enroll full-time or part-time. Program length may also be influenced by clinical scheduling availability and class format.
Do Online CNA Programs Exist in Arizona?
Arizona does not approve fully online CNA programs. Because hands-on patient care is a required part of training, all CNA students must complete in-person skills labs and supervised clinical hours.
Some schools offer hybrid CNA programs, where classroom instruction is delivered online, but all clinical and skills training must be completed in person to qualify for certification and exam eligibility.
Arizona CNA Employment and Wages
CNA pay in Arizona is competitive compared to training length and cost, with wages varying by location, employer, and experience level. Urban areas and healthcare facilities offering shift differentials often pay higher rates. Learn more about CNA salaries.
CNA Salary in Arizona
| Location | Total Employment | Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 1,388,430 | $39,530 |
| Arizona | 17,350 | $41,980 |
Table data taken from 2024 BLS (http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes311131.htm)
How to Choose the Right CNA Program in Arizona
When comparing CNA classes in Arizona, consider the following:
- State approval: Ensure the program is approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing
- Clinical placements: Confirm hands-on training is included at approved facilities
- Scheduling options: Look for evening, weekend, or accelerated formats if needed
- Total cost transparency: Tuition, supplies, uniforms, and exam fees
- Employer connections: Programs with strong local partnerships may improve job prospects
CNA vs Other Healthcare Roles in Arizona
Many students use CNA training as a starting point before advancing into other healthcare careers.
| Role | Education & Training Length | Scope of Practice | Common Arizona Work Settings |
| CNA | Short-term program (120 hours) | Basic patient care and daily assistance | Nursing homes, hospitals, long-term care |
| Medical Assistant (MA) | Certificate/diploma (9–12 months) | Clinical & administrative support | Clinics, physician offices |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | Diploma/certificate (~12 months) | Direct nursing care under supervision | Long-term care, hospitals |
| Registered Nurse (RN) | Associate or bachelor's degree (2–4 years) | Comprehensive nursing care & leadership | Hospitals, clinics, public health |
Becoming a CNA is one of the quickest ways to a healthcare career. However, many eventually move up to LPN or RN careers for the increased earning potential and career mobility. Learn more about CNA to RN bridge programs, or research nursing schools in Arizona.
2026 Updated List of Arizona Schools Offering CNA Classes
Avondale, AZ
Estrella Mountain Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant Course (NUR158)
Campus Based - Website
- State Board of Nursing approved
- Leads to CNA/LNA certification
- Comprehensive clinical experience
- Specific admission requirements
- Prepares for healthcare career
Chandler, AZ
Chandler-Gilbert Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Assisting
Campus Based - Website
- Fast Track Certificate
- 2-4.5 total credits
- Fingerprint clearance required
- Clinical laboratory practice
- Career salary avg $34,610
- High school diploma needed
- Health and safety requirements
- Part-time course option
Coolidge, AZ
Central Arizona College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant Program
Campus Based - Website
- NCLEX-RN pass rate: 98.08%
- Traditional and LPN bridge tracks
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
- ACEN accredited program
- Competitive admission process
- Diverse clinical opportunities
- Minimum 2.75 GPA required
- Job placement rate: 83.3%
Flagstaff, AZ
Coconino Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nursing Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- Focuses on adult population care.
- Prepares for Arizona state board exams.
- Includes clinical rotations for experience.
- Textbooks included in tuition costs.
- Requires CPR certification for admission.
- Immunizations and TB test needed.
- Academic prerequisites include ENG and MATH.
- Medical Terminology course required.
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant (Certificate)
Campus Based - Website
- Nursing Assistant Certificate program.
- Campus-based in Flagstaff, AZ.
- Prepares for entry-level healthcare roles.
- Covers nursing skills and patient care.
- Includes clinical training experience.
- Quick completion timeline.
- Requires high school diploma.
- Affordable cost with financial aid.
Glendale, AZ
Glendale Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- 6-7 week program length.
- Campus-based instruction.
- Costs $941-$1,456 total.
- Requires reading/math proficiency.
- Health and safety documentation needed.
- Day and weekend class schedules.
- Hands-on lab and clinical practice.
- Leads to CNA or LNA certification.
Western Maricopa Education Center
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Services
Campus Based - Website
- One-year program duration
- Hands-on training included
- Prepares for multiple certifications
- No extra cost for credential tests
- Campus-based learning in Glendale, AZ
- IEP/504 accommodations available
- Simulated patient experiences
- Focus on patient advocacy
Holbrook, AZ
Northland Pioneer College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- Five-credit NAT 101 course.
- Face-to-face lecture and lab.
- Eligible for CNA/LNA exam.
- Requires DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card.
- CPR certification needed.
- Immunizations required.
- Placement scores prerequisite.
- Royal blue scrubs needed.
Kingman, AZ
Mohave Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- One-semester certificate program.
- Prepares for Arizona state exam.
- Available at all campus locations.
- Traditional 16-week format.
- Accelerated 8-week format.
- Offered fall, spring, summer.
- Classroom and clinical experience.
- Requires Mohave College student ID.
Mesa, AZ
Mesa Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Assisting
Campus Based - Website
- Certificate of Completion program.
- Campus-based instruction format.
- Arizona State Board approved.
- ACEN accreditation.
- Eligibility for Arizona licensure.
- Prepares for nursing assistant roles.
- Focus on fundamental healthcare skills.
- Patient care training included.
Pima Medical Institute-East Valley
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant /Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- Certificate program.
- On-campus delivery.
- Approximately six weeks.
- Prepares for CNA exam.
- Clinical externships included.
- Hands-on training.
- Covers infection control.
- Teaches basic nursing skills.
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant/Nurse Aide Certificate Program
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Six-week program length.
- On-campus delivery method.
- Certificate program type.
- Hands-on training from start.
- Eligible for CNA exam.
- Teaches infection control.
- Covers emergency procedures.
- Includes basic nursing skills.
Pima Medical Institute-Mesa
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant /Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- Certificate program.
- Approximately six weeks.
- On-campus delivery.
- Entry-level training.
- Clinical skills focus.
- Soft skills included.
- Hands-on training.
- Clinical externships offered.
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant/Nurse Aide Certificate Program
Campus Based - Website
- 6-week certificate program
- On-campus training
- Entry-level healthcare career
- Clinical skills focused
- Externship opportunities
- Multiple work environments
- Real-world professional training
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant/Nurse Aide
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Certificate program length: 6 weeks.
- On-campus delivery method.
- Prepares for CNA certification exam.
- Hands-on training from experienced instructors.
- Includes clinical externships.
- Teaches infection control skills.
- Covers basic nursing procedures.
- Focuses on patient communication skills.
Phoenix, AZ
GateWay Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Assisting
Campus Based - Website
- Certificate of Completion program.
- Campus-based program delivery.
- Approved by Arizona State Board.
- Accredited by Higher Learning Commission.
- Requires information session attendance.
- Prepares for CNA examination.
- Teaches patient care skills.
- Includes bathing and dressing training.
GateWay Community College-Central City
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Assisting
Campus Based - Website
- Certificate of Completion offered.
- Approved by Arizona State Board.
- Information session required.
- Advanced course for experienced.
- 18th Street campus location.
- Regional accreditation by HLC.
- Prepares for CNA examination.
- Hands-on patient care skills.
Paradise Valley Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certificate of Completion (CCL) in Nurse Assisting
Campus Based - Website
- Certificate of Completion program.
- Prepares for nurse assistant employment.
- Classroom and clinical instruction.
- Approved by Arizona State Board.
- Fast Track completion possible.
- Two semesters or less.
- On-campus program delivery.
- Not eligible for federal aid.
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- 4.5 credit course.
- Prepares for CNA/LNA exams.
- On-campus program.
- Includes clinical rotations.
- Requires background check.
- Health and safety compliance.
- Random drug screening.
- Use Maricopa email.
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Assisting
Campus Based - Website
- Fast track certificate program
- 2-4.5 total credits required
- Campus-based training
- High school/GED required
- Prepare for state certification
- Nursing assistant career path
- Critical patient care skills
- Entry-level healthcare training
Pima Medical Institute-Phoenix
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant /Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- Certificate program type.
- On-campus delivery method.
- Approximately 6 weeks length.
- Entry-level career preparation.
- Clinical externships available.
- Hands-on training from start.
- Teaches infection control skills.
- Covers emergency procedures.
Prescott, AZ
Yavapai College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- 6 credit hours required
- Prepares for state certification exams
- Includes clinical and skills lab
- Campus-based program delivery
- Special admission requirements apply
- Criminal background screening needed
- Health screening required
- Drug screening mandatory
Sierra Vista, AZ
Cochise County Community College District
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- One semester program.
- 6 total credits.
- Campus-based format.
- Arizona State Board approved.
- Prepares for state certification.
- Focus on geriatric care.
- Includes CPR and first aid.
- Clinicals at local facilities.
Somerton, AZ
Regional Center for Border Health
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- 6-week program length.
- 160 total instruction hours.
- Campus-based program.
- Total cost $3,400.
- High school diploma or GED required.
- TABE test score 8.0 needed.
- Age 18 or older.
- No criminal history.
Thatcher, AZ
Eastern Arizona College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- Nursing Assistant Certificate program
- Prepares for Arizona CNA exam
- Two part-time semesters length
- Thatcher campus location
- Basic nursing duties training
- RN supervision preparation
- ACEN accredited program
- Arizona top-ranked nursing
Tucson, AZ
Pima Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- One semester program length.
- In-person study methods.
- Multiple campus locations available.
- Prepares for CNA/LNA certification exams.
- Hands-on clinical instruction included.
- Credits apply to LPN certificate.
- Credits apply to RN degree.
- Foundational healthcare career start.
Pima Medical Institute-Tucson
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant /Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- Certificate program type.
- On-campus delivery method.
- Approximately 6-week length.
- Entry-level position training.
- Covers infection control.
- Teaches emergency procedures.
- Includes basic nursing skills.
- Focuses on communication skills.
Yuma, AZ
Arizona Western College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- Arizona State Board of Nursing approved.
- Program established in 1990.
- Campus-based instruction.
- Hands-on clinical practice.
- Experienced faculty team.
- Modern training facilities.
- Accredited nursing program.
- Focus on rural healthcare.
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