Arizona Western College CNA Program

Starting your journey as a Certified Nursing Assistant in Yuma, Arizona opens doors to a meaningful healthcare career where you’ll make a genuine difference in patients’ lives every day. Arizona Western College’s Nursing Assistant program in Yuma provides comprehensive training that prepares you to work under the supervision of nurses while delivering high-quality patient care.

This program is designed for students seeking an accessible entry point into healthcare, whether you’re just starting your career journey or making a transition into the nursing field. The CNA training in Yuma, Arizona combines classroom learning, hands-on lab practice, and real-world clinical experience to prepare you for the Arizona State Board of Nursing certification exam and a successful career as a certified nursing assistant.

CNA Program Quick Facts

• Program Length: One semester (5 credit hours total)
• Cost of Program: $485.00 tuition for residents ($97/credit) plus $400.00 lab fee (including state certification test fee)
• Accreditation: Program is approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing
• State Exam Pass Rate: Contact the program directly for more information about current exam pass rates
• CNA Program Schedule: Fall, Spring, and Summer sessions available (8-week sessions for Fall/Spring, 8-week session for Summer)

CNA Training Structure

Arizona Western College’s nursing assistant program provides a comprehensive educational experience that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills development.

Classroom Learning Students focus on applying client self-care concepts and basic procedures related to fundamentals of nursing, communication, nutrition, anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, legal and ethical issues, and aging processes. The curriculum prepares students to demonstrate knowledge in the role of the nursing assistant while maintaining safety standards and meeting state certification requirements.

Clinical Experience Clinical training takes place under faculty supervision in healthcare settings where students gain hands-on experience providing direct patient care. The program employs local practicing nurses educated at MSN and BSN levels as part-time clinical faculty to guide students through real-world patient care scenarios.

Exam Preparation The program includes comprehensive preparation for both the state written examination and skills evaluation required for CNA certification. Students practice essential nursing assistant skills in the college laboratory before implementing them in clinical settings, ensuring they’re fully prepared for the certification process.

Admission Requirements

To enroll in Arizona Western College’s Nursing Assistant program, students must meet specific requirements and complete a detailed application process.

Prerequisites

• Must be admitted to AWC prior to applying to the nursing assistant program
• Reading proficiency requirement (Next-Generation Accuplacer Test reading score of 219 or higher, Grade C or higher in ENG 090/101/107, or HESI A2 exam English composite score of 75% or higher)
• Math eligibility (Next-Generation Accuplacer Test eligibility for MAT 105 or higher, Grade C or higher in MAT 81 or higher, or HESI A2 exam Math composite score of 75% or higher)
• Mandatory attendance at a Nursing Assistant Information Session

Required Documentation

• Arizona DPS IVP Level One Fingerprint Clearance Card
• Current American Heart Association BLS Provider CPR card
• Two-step TB skin test or chest X-ray (within 12 months)
• Urine drug screen (10-panel, within 30 days of application)
• Current vaccination records: MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B, seasonal flu, and COVID-19
• Government picture ID showing citizenship or nationality status
• Student Information Release Form and Drug Test Consent Form

Application Deadlines

• Fall 2025: Application opens April 7, 2025 at 12:01 AM and closes May 22, 2025 at 4:30 PM
• Spring 2026: Application period closes until September 16, 2025

CNA Class Schedule & Flexibility

Arizona Western College offers nursing assistant classes during Fall, Spring, and Summer terms to accommodate different student schedules. Fall and Spring sessions include both 8-week and 16-week format options, while Summer sessions are offered as 8-week intensive programs.

The program structure includes classroom lectures, hands-on skills laboratory practice, and supervised clinical experiences. Students must complete a minimum of 120 hours of instruction as required by the Arizona State Board of Nursing to receive a certificate of completion.

For specific class times, days, and current start dates, please contact the program directly as schedules may vary by semester.

Tuition & Financial Aid Information

Program Costs

• Tuition: $485.00 for Arizona residents ($97 per credit)
• Lab Fee: $400.00 (includes state certification test fee)
• Additional expenses include uniform costs ($40 wine-colored scrubs plus $8.50 program patch), Allied Health name tag ($10), closed-toe non-slip shoes ($50), textbook and workbook ($51), and required equipment such as gait belt, watch, and blood pressure cuff

Health and Safety Requirements Costs

• CPR certification: $75
• Fingerprint clearance card: $73
• TB screening: $15-$30
• Drug test: $40
• Vaccination costs vary: MMR vaccine or titer ($79), Varicella vaccine or titer ($137), Hepatitis B vaccine or titer ($56)

Financial Assistance The program is eligible for financial aid through AWC. Students can contact the financial aid office at 928-344-7634 for information about funding options. The AZ Quest Grant program may also provide funding opportunities for displaced workers seeking valuable training to re-enter the workforce.

How to Apply

The application process for Arizona Western College’s Nursing Assistant program requires careful attention to detail and preparation.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Apply and be admitted to Arizona Western College
2. Attend a mandatory Nursing Assistant Information Session
3. Meet reading and math requirements through testing or completed coursework
4. Apply for Arizona DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card (processing can take up to 8 weeks)
5. Obtain current CPR certification
6. Complete all health and safety requirements including drug screening and vaccinations
7. Submit all required documentation and forms
8. Complete and submit the online application through the nursing assistant program website

Application deadlines are strictly enforced, and incomplete applications will be denied. Students should begin the preparation process well in advance of application deadlines to ensure all requirements are met.

CNA Program Location & Contact Information

• Institution name: Arizona Western College
• Address: 2020 S Ave 8 E, Yuma, AZ 85365
• Phone Number: (928) 344-7552
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: Please visit the Arizona Western College nursing assistant program page for the most current information

The program is located in room LR 209 on the main campus, with additional information available through the Allied Health Department.

Additional Resources

Arizona Western College provides comprehensive program documentation to help students understand requirements and prepare for success:

• Nursing Assistant Application Instruction Sheet
• Nursing Assistant Student Guide
• Nursing Assistant Curriculum outline
• Program cost breakdown
• Health evaluation and drug screen consent forms
• TB surveillance forms
• Vaccination declination forms (where applicable)
• Student information release forms

All program documents are available through the nursing assistant program webpage and should be reviewed carefully before beginning the application process.

Summary and Next Steps

Arizona Western College’s Nursing Assistant program in Yuma, Arizona provides the comprehensive training and support you need to begin a rewarding career in healthcare. With experienced faculty, hands-on learning opportunities, and Arizona State Board of Nursing approval, graduates are well-prepared to pass their certification exam and provide quality patient care in various healthcare settings.

The program’s structured approach to learning, combined with real-world clinical experience, helps students develop both the technical skills and professional confidence needed for success as a CNA. Whether you’re starting your first career in healthcare or making a transition from another field, this program offers the foundation you need to make a meaningful difference in patients’ lives.

Before you decide, make sure you’re choosing the right CNA program for your goals.
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