Santiago Canyon College’s CNA program stands out for its low overall cost, flexible schedule formats, and detailed two-part structure that clearly outlines the pathway to certification. With weekday, evening, and weekend options available, it’s designed for students with varying availability. Although the exact tuition isn’t publicly listed, students can expect to pay around $432.50 for textbooks, uniforms, health clearances, CPR training, and other supplies. This affordability, along with a 250-hour training requirement, makes it one of the more accessible CNA programs in Orange County for students looking to break into healthcare.
Program Structure and Format
The program is split into two required courses. Students begin with VMED 010, a 10-hour overview class that introduces the expectations and requirements of the CNA program. Only after passing this initial course can they enroll in VMED 011, which includes 240 hours of in-depth CNA training. Combined, these courses meet the California Department of Public Health’s 250-hour requirement for CNA certification eligibility.
Schedules for VMED 011 vary by term and include weekday morning, evening, and weekend options. This is ideal for students balancing other obligations. Training is offered on campus and at the College and Workforce Preparation Center (CWPC), which adds some flexibility in locations as well.
Schedule Options
Multiple cohorts are available throughout the year. Recent class offerings included weekday sessions running Monday and Wednesday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., evening sessions Tuesday through Thursday from 3:30 p.m. to 8:45 p.m., and weekend sessions Saturday and Sunday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Each cohort runs for approximately 17–18 weeks, making it a good fit for those who prefer a slower-paced, part-time structure compared to accelerated 4–8 week programs.
Cost Breakdown
While the college does not publish exact tuition fees, the out-of-pocket expenses for required materials are clearly listed and come to approximately $432.50. This includes a CNA exam fee ($120), textbooks, a CPR course, uniforms, and costs related to health screenings and background checks. CPR training is conveniently arranged as part of the initial VMED 010 course.
Students should budget extra for variable costs like medical exams, vaccines, or if they choose more expensive options for books or uniforms. Still, overall affordability remains a strong selling point.
Admission Requirements
Students must meet the following criteria to enter the CNA program:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Provide a government-issued ID (e.g., driver’s license)
- Possess a Social Security Card or ITIN number
- Complete a TB test or provide a clear chest X-ray
- Undergo and pass a physical exam
- Complete a Livescan fingerprint/background check
- Provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination
- Complete BLS/CPR certification for healthcare professionals (arranged in VMED 010)
These health and safety standards are non-negotiable due to clinical site requirements and ensure students are prepared for hands-on patient care.
Instructional Approach
The curriculum prepares students for both the CNA certification exam and real-world work in long-term care or medical facilities. Instruction includes traditional lecture-based learning, skills labs, and clinical practice hours under supervision. Topics covered include personal care skills, communication, emergency procedures, infection control, legal responsibilities, nutrition, and end-of-life care.
Students are expected to complete all required instruction and successfully pass both VMED 010 and VMED 011. There is also a soft skills requirement through VBUS 402 – Workforce Power Skills, which focuses on professionalism and workplace behavior.
For those needing extra support with English or healthcare terminology, SCC recommends taking ESL 520 – English for Work 2, which is a helpful option for non-native speakers.
Flexibility and Support
While the program doesn’t advertise online classes for its CNA training, it does offer hybrid options for the VMED 010 overview class. This gives students the flexibility to complete the initial requirement online and only attend in-person sessions for skills and clinical components. Most instruction takes place in person, so students should be ready to commit to physical attendance throughout the program.
Additionally, students have access to Santa Ana College’s broader support resources, including academic counseling and ESL courses, which can help students stay on track.
Certification Preparation
Upon completing VMED 011, students are eligible to take the California State CNA Exam, which includes both written and skills-based portions. Students must pass this exam to become officially certified to work in the state. Santiago Canyon College prepares students well for this step by including ample hands-on clinical hours and integrated test prep through the curriculum.
Final Thoughts on Cost Transparency
The college does not make the actual tuition clear on its website, which may be confusing for first-time students trying to budget. That said, because it’s part of the School of Continuing Education, the academic portion of the program may be subsidized or offered at no cost—something students should verify by contacting the program directly. Regardless, the total known expenses remain relatively low for a 250-hour CNA program in California.
Who Should Consider Santiago Canyon College
Santiago Canyon College is a great fit for students looking for an affordable and structured CNA program in Orange County. If you’re someone who needs evening or weekend class options or appreciates a slower-paced training format over a rushed one, this program is worth a look. It’s especially ideal for individuals seeking low-cost entry into healthcare, including those who may benefit from ESL support or need a little more time to absorb the material.
However, prospective students should be ready to manage in-person attendance and meet several health-related requirements before entering the clinical portion. Overall, SCC offers strong value through a well-rounded, state-approved training path that makes CNA certification achievable without breaking the bank.
| Category | Details |
|---|
| Cost | Approx. $432.50 for required materials (textbooks, uniform, exam fees, CPR, background check); actual tuition not clearly listed |
| Duration | 17–18 weeks (250 total hours: 10 hours overview + 240 hours CNA training) |
| Class Schedules | Weekday, evening, and weekend options (e.g., M/W 8:30AM–4:30PM, T/W/Th 3:30PM–8:45PM, Sat/Sun 8:30AM–4:30PM) |
| Online Classes? | No online option for CNA training; overview class (VMED-010) may be offered in hybrid/online formats |
| Requirements | – 18+ years old – Government-issued ID – Social Security Card/ITIN – TB test – Physical exam – Background check – CPR certification – COVID-19 vaccine |
| Address | 8045 E Chapman Ave, Orange, CA 92869 |
| Phone | (714) 628-5987 |
| Not explicitly listed; recommend contacting through school’s program page |
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