Nurse Assistant Training Program

About the Program

The Nurse Assistant Training program at Bakersfield College prepares students to begin a career in healthcare as a certified nursing assistant. Students learn how to support nurses and care for patients in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.

Through classroom lessons and hands-on clinical training, students learn about:

• Patient rights and communication
• Infection control and safety
• Taking vital signs
• Basic care skills such as bathing, dressing, and feeding

After completing the program, students are ready to take the California Nurse Assistant Competency Exam and begin work in healthcare settings.

Important Information

Estimated Course Cost (Gainful Employment)

Students are responsible for enrollment fees, physical examinations, immunizations and/or vaccines, drug and alcohol screen and uniform attire. See Nurse Assistant Training Program Estimated Costs (revised Spring 2023) for the estimated cost of fees, examinations, textbooks and uniforms for the program. Financial Aid may be available.

What is a Nurse Assistant?

A Nurse Assistant, also called a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), helps nurses care for patients. They work in hospitals, nursing homes, and other care facilities. Nurse assistants help patients with daily needs such as bathing, dressing, eating, and moving safely.

They also check vital signs, report changes in a patient’s condition, and provide emotional support to patients and families. Nurse assistants play an important role in keeping patients comfortable and supporting the healthcare team.

Is Studying to be a Nurse Assistant Right for Me?

If you are caring, patient, and enjoy helping others, this program could be a great fit for you. It is also a good starting point for anyone who wants to begin working in healthcare with a short amount of training.

You may be a good match for this program if you:

• Have compassion and patience
• Communicate clearly and work well with others
• Pay attention to details
• Have physical stamina
• Are professional and flexible

This program can also help you build a foundation for future careers in nursing or other areas of healthcare.

Nurse Assistant Certificate

Nurse Assistant Job Skills Certificate

This certificate prepares you to provide care for patients in healthcare settings. You will learn about the role of the caregiver, health and safety procedures, the needs of adults during illness, and the basic skills required to support patient care.

Select the certificate title for the catalog description and requirements.

Paying For Education

You CAN Afford BC

Don’t let finances get in the way of your goals. Get help paying for college costs like tuition, books, or sometimes even the rent with a variety of financial aid options to help you reach your educational and career goals.

I Can Afford College

Nurse Assistant Careers

A Nurse Assistant Job Skills Certificate can lead to many entry-level jobs in healthcare, such as:

• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
• Home Health Aide
• Hospice Aide
• Patient Care Technician
• Emergency Medical Technician (with additional training)
• Medical Assistant

These roles allow you to provide essential care and support for patients while working closely with nurses and other healthcare professionals.

Academic Department: Nursing

Career & Learning Pathway: Health Sciences (HS) Pathway

More Nursing Programs: Vocational Nursing, Registered Nursing

Courses: Nurse Assistant (MEDS B69)