In Arizona, including the city of Phoenix, nurse assistants must complete a state-approved program and pass the state nurse aide evaluation in order to obtain licensure. Approved programs offer a minimum of 120 hours including classroom training and clinical hours at a skilled nursing facility. The Arizona Board of Nursing oversees and approves nurse aide training programs. Upon completion of the training, graduates are eligible to take the state evaluation exam administered by D&S Diversified Technologies. Browse the list of programs below to find a state-accredited training program that is right for you.
Gateway Community College
Gateway Community College’s Certificate of Completion (CCL) in Nurse Assisting prepares students to excel as Certified Nurse Aides at hospitals and nursing homes. The program provides a balance of classroom instruction and clinical laboratory. Areas of study include the role of the nurse aide, body structure and function, observation and reporting, medical terminology, infection control, patients’ rights and independence, safety and emergency concepts, laws and ethics, nutrition and hydration needs, communication, and hospice care. Graduates of the program are eligible to take both the written and skills components of the state nurse aide evaluation. While the training gives all the tools necessary to obtain state certification, licensing approval is the sole responsibility of the Arizona State Board of Nursing.
Admission criteria:
- Must be a high school graduate or have a GED
- Attend a nursing information session
- Have a current Health Care Provider CPR card
- Submit copy of fingerprint clearance card
- Obtain a negative urine drug screen
- Complete the Health Provider Signature Form – must be signed by a licensed health care provider
The Certificate of Completion in Nurse Assisting will cost $1,196 for in-county residents and does not include the cost of textbooks, registration fees, and supplies. The program is not eligible for financial aid.
- Website: https://www.gatewaycc.edu/
- Address: 555 N. 18th Street, Phoenix AZ 85006
- Phone: (602) 286-8000
- Email: info@gatewaycc.edu
Metro Tech High School
Metro Tech high school students can enroll in the Nursing Assistant training in their junior year and complete the requirements for the state exam by their senior year – two years. Graduates are eligible to apply for the Arizona State Board of Nursing Certified Nursing Assistant Exam to work as a CNA in acute care and long-term care settings. The curriculum will cover measuring vital signs, personal care skills, first aid and CPR, communication skills and interpersonal relationships, observation and reporting, infection control, and patient rights. A clinical experience in a hospital or health care facility and exam preparation are also included in the curriculum. Credits from the program are transferable to a community college program in nursing.
Admission criteria:
- Complete prerequisite courses – English 1,2,3, Biology I, Algebra I with a GPA of 2.75 or better
- Obtain instructor approval
- Complete pre-screening
- Complete Career and Technical Exploration – recommended
- Must pass Health Careers 1-2: Nursing Assistant for admission to Nursing Assistant 3-4
There is a one-time course fee of $50 for the program.
- Website: https://www.pxu.org/metrotech
- Address: 1900 West Thomas Road, Phoenix, AZ 85015
- Phone: 602-764-8000
Paradise Valley Community College
The Nurse Assisting program at Paradise Community College prepares students for entry-level employment in a long-term, acute care, or home health care setting. The curriculum combines classroom and clinical lab at the college campus followed by practical patient care experiences at a skilled nursing home. Graduates will receive a certificate of completion from Paradise Valley Community College and are eligible to apply for the written and skills components of the state certification exam. The program is regulated by the state and federal government so full attendance is mandatory.
Admission criteria:
- Attend a nursing assistant information session
- Submit a completed application packet
- Pass a criminal background check
- Have current CPR for the Healthcare Provider card
- Pass a urine drug screen
- Complete the immunization requirements – MMR, Varicella, Tdap, TB test, Hepatitis B, Influenza
The total estimated cost of the program is $1,344.50 and includes textbooks, background check, uniform, supplies, physical exam, immunizations, registration, and fingerprinting fee.
- Website: https://www.paradisevalley.edu/
- Address: 18401 N. 32nd Street, Phoenix, AZ 85032
- Phone: (602) 787-7862
Star Canyon School of Nursing
The goal of the nursing assistant program at Star Canyon School if Nursing is to produce caring nursing assistants who will be able to demonstrate competence and commitment to patient care and ethical practice. Experienced instructors guide students through the intensive curriculum which involves didactic training in the classroom as well as practical experiences in the clinical setting. Course topics basic nursing skills, body structure and function, the role and responsibility of the nurse aide, vital signs, infection control, positioning and transfers, and communication. Graduates of the board-approved program are eligible to apply for the state CNA competency exam. New classes begin every month and run for 3 to 5 weeks depending on the schedule. Full-time day classes meet from Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. Part-time evening classes meet Monday through Thursday from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm are also available.
Admission criteria:
- Must have a high school diploma or GED
- Must be able to communicate clearly
- Must be physically able to perform the duties of a nurse aide
- Must have no felony convictions
- Upload a copy of immunizations
- Have a valid driver’s license or state ID
- Valid CPR or First Aid certification
Tuition for the program is $1,250 and includes the use of lab equipment and textbooks. A flexible payment plan is open to all students.
- Website: http://www.starcanyonschoolofnursing.com/
- Address: 8900 N. Central Ave Ste. 104A-B & 107, Phoenix, AZ 85020
- Phone: (602) 943-1337
Medstar Academy
The Certified Nursing Assistant Training program at Medstar prepares students for success on the AZ State Board of Nursing exam to become a Certified Nurse Assistant. The school offers excellent pass rates, a moderately-paced 6-week training, small class sizes for personalized instruction, and on-site state exam. The 120-hour curriculum includes 80 hours of instruction in the classroom and skills lab followed by 40 hours of clinical training at a licensed health care facility. Areas of study include medical terminology and abbreviations, body structure and function, basic nursing skills, perineal care, communication, patient safety, patients’ rights and independence, laws and ethics, observation and reporting, infection control, personal care and grooming, and mental health. Clinical times are Monday through Friday from 6:00 am to 2:30 for both full-time and part-time students. Day and evening classes are available.
Admission criteria:
- Must be at least 16 years of age
- Take and pass an admission assessment
- Have a social security card and driver’s license or state ID
- Submit a negative TB test – must be taken within six months of application
- Obtain medical clearance from a licensed physician
- Pass a 10-panel urine drug screen
- Have no felony convictions within the last three years
- Have BLS/First Aid certification
- Complete the Arizona DPS fingerprint clearance card or application
The program’s tuition is $1,485. Textbook, DPS fingerprinting, CPR, registration, supplies, drug test, TB test, BLS, uniforms, and the state exam will cost extra. A flexible payment plan is available for all students.
- Website: https://medstaracademy.com/
- Address: 14100 N 83rd Ave #230, Peoria, AZ 85381
- Phone: (623) 773-9000
Lifework Education
The state-approved CNA/LNA program at Lifework Education leads to a certification that will grant students the eligibility to take the state exam. The training will include theory in the classroom, hands-on lab, and a clinical internship at an approved facility. Topics covered include communication and interpersonal skills, safety and emergency procedures, promoting residents’ rights, infection control, respecting residents’ rights, promoting independence, basic nursing skills, personal care, mental health and social service needs, care of the cognitively impaired, basic restorative services, and end of life care. Daytime, evening, and weekend schedules are available. The daytime class meets Monday through Friday from 7:00 am to 4:00 pm for 4 weeks. The evening program meets Monday through Friday from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm for 6 weeks. The weekend class meets Saturday and Sunday from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm for 7 weekends.
Admission criteria:
- Must be 16 years or older
- Provide proof of citizenship or legal residency
- Take and pass the admission assessment – English language, reading, and math
- Complete a satisfactory background check
- Have no active felony in the past three years
- Obtain medical clearance from a healthcare provider
- Complete flu vaccination as required by the clinical site
- Obtain a negative TB test
- Provide a current CPR certificate
- Complete the Voluntary Assumption of Risk – Release of Liability Form
Tuition for the program is $1,200 and includes textbook, workbook, stethoscope, uniform, blood pressure cuff, gait belt, TB test, and a special rate in CPR training. Additional costs for uniforms, watch with a second hand, medical exam, chest x-ray, and state board certification fee are not included.
- Website: https://arizonamedicaltraininginstitute.com/
- Address: 1845 E. Broadway Road Suite 114, Tempe, Arizona 85282
- Phone: (480) 247-9388
Accord Institute
The nurse aide course at Accord Institute provides students with knowledge and skills needed for entry-level employment as a Certified Nursing Assistant. Lectures and demonstrations in the classroom will emphasize the role of the CNA, body systems, infection control, safety and emergency response, personal care and grooming, patients’ rights, and much more. Skills lab sessions will give students opportunities to apply the theoretical concepts in a controlled environment. The program will conclude with a clinical internship comprising of at least 40 hours. During the internship, students will provide basic nursing care under the supervision of a registered nurse instructor and in collaboration with other students, CNAs, and health care professionals. Program graduates will be eligible to take the Arizona Board of Nursing CNA Exam and apply for licensure as an LNA. The program covers 120 clock hours in 6 weeks.
Admission criteria:
- Be at least 16 years of age – parental waiver required
- Pass the entrance assessment
- Pass a background check
- Must be able to read, write, and speak English competently
- Have current CPR certification
- A negative TB skin test
The program is not eligible for financial aid. A flexible payment plan is available for all students.
- Website: https://www.ahiphoenix.com/
- Address: 3816 N 27th Ave. Phoenix, AZ 85017
- Phone: 602-714-3439
EVIT Adult Education
The nurse aide curriculum at EVIT includes 170 clock hours of theory and practical instruction to prepare for state certification. The Arizona Board of Nursing approved program covers basic nursing skills, interpersonal skills, personal care and grooming, body systems, measuring vital signs, patient safety, range of motion exercises, observation and reporting, and infection control. There will be an emphasis placed on direct patient care during the skills lab sessions and clinical rotations. Graduates will be prepared to take the state certification exam to become a Certified Nurse Assistant. Classes meet Monday through Wednesday from 8:00 am to 11:00 am for 10 to 12 weeks.
Admission criteria:
- Must have a high school diploma or GED
- Submit a record of immunizations
- Must have a current CPR for Health Care Providers card
- Submit a valid social security card and driver’s license or state ID
- Pass a drug test
Tuition for the program is $,1085 including supplies and fees. The estimated out-of-pocket cost of $550 includes books, fingerprint card, drug screen, CPR for Healthcare Worker, state licensure exam, scrubs, and closed-toe shoes.
- Website: https://www.evit.com/
- Address: 1601 W Main St, Mesa, AZ 85201
- Phone: 480-461-4000
Glendale Community College
The GCC nursing assistant course prepares students with knowledge and skills to care for patients within the nurse assisting scope of practice. The training will cover communication skills, promoting patients’ health and safety, respecting resident rights, nutrition and hydration, problem-solving, special needs, observation and reporting, and infection control. Students will master nursing skills in the school’s classroom, lab, and through clinical experiences in a real-world setting. Graduates will receive a Certificate of Completion and will be eligible to take the certification exam to become a CNA or LNA.
Admission criteria:
- Secure admission to GCC
- Attend a mandatory Nursing Assistant information session
- Schedule and attend an interview with the NA Intake Coordinator
- Obtain a grade of “C” or better in RDG 100 or higher or submit satisfactory Accuplacer or HESI A2 scores
- Meet the health and safety requirements include up-to-date immunizations, background check, CPR certification, and drug screen Program Costs
The cost of the program is $1,690 and includes tuition, course fee, fingerprint clearance card, background check, urine drug screen, medical document tracker, immunizations, uniform, CPR, shoes, textbook, and stethoscope.
- Website: https://www.gccaz.edu/
- Address: 5727 West Happy Valley Road, Phoenix Arizona 85310
- Phone: (623) 888-7000
SCL College of Nursing
The Nursing Assistant Program at SCL College provides students with the theory and skills needed to practice as nursing assistants in long-term and acute care settings. The program is approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing and covers 120 hours of theory, lab, and clinical practice. Students will participate in a clinical practicum comprising of 40 hours of direct patient care in a long-term care facility. Graduates will be eligible to sit the nurse aide exam to be added to the state’s nurse aide registry. The duration of the program is 4 weeks.
Admission criteria:
- Must be at least 16 years old
- Must pass an admission exam – English proficiency, reading comprehension and math
- Must have no active felony (ARS 32-1606) in the past 3 years or unprofessional conduct (ARS 32-1601)
- Provide proof of citizenship (Arizona Driver’s License or passport), or legal residency status
- Complete the Health Declaration and meet all “essential functions”.
- Submit a completed Voluntary Assumption of Risk – Release of Liability Form.
- Submit a negative TB Skin Test – results should be no older than 6 months from testing
- Must comply the SCL College of Nursing Background Check policy
- Must submit a copy of an Arizona Department of Public Safety Level One Fingerprint Clearance Card with the completed application
The program cost of $1,495 includes tuition, technology fee, lab fee, and admin fee.
- Website: https://sclu.science/
- Address: 5060 N. 19th Ave., Ste. 117, Phoenix, AZ 85015
- Phone: 480-215-9056
Resilient Healthcare Academy
The CNA training program at Resilient Healthcare Academy prepares students to take the AZ state board exam. The curriculum covers 120 hours of theory and clinical instruction. Course topics include anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, infection control, nutrition and feeding, communication and interpersonal skills, end of life care, mental health concepts, Alzheimer’s care, patients’ rights and independence, and vital signs. Students will apply the practical skills learned in the skills lab during the 40-hour clinical rotation at a long-term care facility. Graduates will be prepared to sit for the nurse aide exam available at RHA’s approved testing center. Day, evening, weekend and online classes are available. Day and evening classes may be completed in 5 weeks. The duration of the weekend class is 7 weeks.
Admission criteria:
- Must be at least 16 years old
- Must pass an admission exam
- Must have no active felony
- Provide proof of citizenship (Arizona Driver’s License or passport), or legal residency status
- Must be in good physical and mental health
- Submit a negative TB Skin Test – results should be no older than 6 months from testing
- Must pass a criminal background check
- Must submit a completed application for admission
The program cost of $1,570 includes tuition, uniform, book, CPR certification, gait belt, and stethoscope.
- Website: https://resilienthealthcareacademy.com/
- Address: 10000 N. 31st Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85051
- Phone: 520-709-9357
Moore Medical Training
The certified nursing assistant program at Moore Medical Training offers students the opportunity to prepare for a career in health care. They will learn in a hands-on environment under the guidance of experienced licensed nurses. The state-approved curriculum covers 120 hours of theory and practical instruction. Course content emphasizes critical thinking, decision-making skills, team concepts and communication and interpersonal skills. Graduates will be prepared to sit for the state nurse aide exam. They will also meet the requirements for entry to the RN program at Maricopa Colleges. The school offers daytime, evening, and weekend courses to fit students’ schedules. The day program meets 5 days a week for 3 weeks. The evening program meets 3 days a week for 6 weeks. The weekend program meets for 7 weeks. An advanced placement 3-week option is also available.
Admission criteria:
- Must provide proof of legal residency (state-issued driver’s license or ID)
- Must be at least 16 years of age
- Submit a negative TB test (within 9 months)
- Submit a negative COVID test, COVID vaccinations
- Must obtain fingerprint clearance
- Must attend an orientation to complete the enrollment form
- Must take and pass the admissions reading, writing and math assessment
- Must have no active felony (ARS32-1606) in the past 3 years for which have not received an absolute discharge
- Must have Basic Life Support (BLS) certification – included in tuition
Tuition for the program is $1,200.00 and includes a stethoscope, blood pressure kit, badge, scrub top, healthcare provider card, and use of the required textbook. Students must cover the cost of registration and equipment and supplies gee.
- Website: https://mooremedicaltraininginstitute.com/
- Address: 4022 E. Broadway Road # 110, Phoenix, AZ 85040
- Phone: 480-865-0512
Bolay’s Solution Agape Training
The nurse aide program at Bolay’s Soultion Agape Training prepares students for entry-level employment as a certified nurse aide. The program is approved by the AZ Board of Nursing and includes theory and practical instruction. Course topics include body structure and function, vital signs, observation and reporting, infection control, communication and interpersonal skills, feeding and nutrition, measuring fluid intake and output, patient rights and independence, medical terminology, and hospice care. Students will participate in a clinical rotation (40 hours) at a long-term care facility. Graduates will be eligible to sit for the state nurse aide exam to become a Certified Nursing Assistant. Morning, evening and weekend schedules are available. The duration of the program is 5 weeks.
Admission criteria:
- Submit a satisfactory 10-panel drug test no later than the first week of class
- Obtain a level one, non-IVP fingerprint clearance class
- Must be at least 16 years of age
- Must have current CPR certification
- Must provide a signed medical clearance form
The program cost of $1,200 includes tuition, textbook, gait belt, wristwatch, name badges, and stethoscope.
- Website: https://www.bolayssolution.com/
- Address: 7840 N. 31st Ave Suite 201, Phoenix, AZ 85249
- Phone: 520-201-3807
Other State-Approved CNA Programs in Phoenix, AZ
South Mountain Post-Acute
8008 S. Jesse Owens Parkway
Phoenix, AZ 85042
602-243-2780
Ridgecrest CNA Training
16640 N. 38th Street
Phoenix, AZ 85302
602-482-6671
Phoenix Mountain Post-Acute and Rehabilitation
13232 N. Tatum Blvd.
Phoenix, AZ 85032
602-996-5200
Paradise Valley High School
3950 E. Bell Rd.
Phoenix, AZ 85032
602-449-7038
Moon Valley High School
3625 W. Cactus Rd.
Phoenix, AZ 85029
602-616-1798
Maricopa Career Institute
10231 N. 35th Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85051
602-883-8111
Haven of Phoenix
4202 N. 20th Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85015
602-264-3824
Alhambra High School
3839 W. Camelback Road
Phoenix, AZ 85019
602-764-6002
Academy On-Demand At Plaza Health
4641 N. 12th Street
Phoenix, AZ 85014
888-595-5010
How Long Does It Take to Become a CNA in Phoenix, AZ
CNA programs that are approved by the AZ Board of Nursing comprises of 120 hours of theory and clinical instruction, which takes approximately 5 to 7 weeks for completion.
How Much Is CNA Classes in Phoenix, AZ
CNA classes in Phoenix cost approximately $1,200 for tuition, books, and supplies.
How Can I Get My CNA License in AZ
If you’re new to the profession of nurse assisting, you must obtain your CNA certification by Examination. Apply for certification from the AZ Board of Nursing after completing an approved nursing assistant program and taking the nursing assistant state exam.
The Arizona State Board of Nursing (Board) recognizes two levels of nursing assistant:
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA): someone who passes an approved CNA course and the nurse aide manual skills/written exams to be added to the CNA registry. All instances of abuse, neglect or misappropriation of property/theft will be noted on the registry.
Licensed Nursing Assistant (LNA): a CNA who submits an application, fingerprints and fees to the Board. The LNA is regulated by the Board which has broader jurisdiction for any act of unprofessional conduct.
Full details on obtaining your CNA certification in Arizona.
How Much Does A CNA Make in Phoenix?
Certified nursing assistants in Phoenix earn an average of $37,444 annually. Entry-level nurse aides earn an average of $35,340 and experienced nurse aides earn a median annual salary of $38,970.
Can I Take CNA Classes Online in Arizona?
There are CNA schools in Arizona that offer online delivery of the theoretical portion of the coursework – approximately 40 hours of instruction. You will need to complete the lab skills sessions on site. The clinical rotation conducted at a local health care facility also calls for your physical presence.
What is the Youngest Age to Become a CNA in Arizona?
You must be at least 16 years of age to become certified and listed on the AZ Nurse Aide Registry.