Certified Nurse Assistant - LGL College Offers CDPH Approved Trainings

LGL College provides California Department of Public Health (CDPH) approved CNA training that qualifies you to take the state certification exam and begin working in healthcare settings. The program combines online coursework with hands-on clinical training in La Habra, giving you flexibility while meeting all state requirements for nurse aide certification.

Becoming a Certified Nurse Assistant offers you a direct path into healthcare with relatively short training time compared to other medical careers. You gain practical skills in patient care, vital signs monitoring, and infection control that prepare you for immediate employment in hospitals, nursing facilities, and home health agencies. The role serves as both a stable career option and a foundation for future advancement in nursing.

This guide walks you through LGL College's CDPH-approved program structure, admission requirements, certification process, and career support services. You will learn what to expect from enrollment through exam preparation, plus how this credential fits into longer-term healthcare education goals.

Overview of Certified Nurse Assistant and CDPH Approval

California maintains strict oversight of CNA training and certification through the California Department of Public Health. Your path to becoming a certified nurse assistant requires completion of a CDPH-approved program and passing state-mandated examinations.

What Is a Certified Nurse Assistant?

A certified nurse assistant (CNA) provides essential direct patient care in healthcare facilities including hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living centers. You will assist patients with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, eating, and mobility while monitoring vital signs and reporting changes to nursing staff.

The role requires completing 160 total training hours in California, consisting of 60 hours of theoretical instruction and 100 hours of supervised clinical practice. You must pass a competency evaluation that tests both knowledge and practical skills before appearing on the California Nurse Aide Registry.

CNAs work under the supervision of registered nurses or licensed vocational nurses. Your responsibilities include maintaining patient comfort, documenting care activities, and helping patients maintain their dignity during vulnerable moments.

Role of the California Department of Public Health

The California Department of Public Health regulates CNA certification through its Healthcare Professional Certification and Training Section (HPCTS). This division enforces requirements outlined in California Health and Safety Code Sections 1337-1338.5.

CDPH approves training programs that meet state standards for curriculum content, instructor qualifications, and clinical site quality. The department maintains the official California Nurse Aide Registry, which employers use to verify your certification status.

You must maintain criminal record clearance to receive and keep your certification. CDPH handles applications, renewals, and disciplinary actions when necessary.

Importance of CDPH Approved CNA Programs

Completing a CDPH-approved program is mandatory for California certification. Programs without CDPH approval cannot prepare you for the state competency exam or help you gain registry placement.

CDPH-approved programs ensure you receive standardized training that meets California's specific requirements. Your training facility will arrange your state certification exam upon successful program completion.

Employers in California can only hire CNAs who appear on the state registry after completing approved training. Attending a non-approved program means starting over with an approved one, wasting time and money.

About LGL College and Program Accreditation

LGL College holds official approvals from California's regulatory bodies and operates as a specialized nursing education institution in La Habra. The college maintains CDPH certification and BPPE accreditation, which ensures students receive training that meets state-mandated requirements for certified nursing assistant programs.

LGL College's Mission and Reputation

LGL College was established in 2020 as a nonprofit nursing school founded by a Registered Nurse. The institution focuses on addressing the need for affordable nursing education while providing accessible pathways into healthcare careers. You can complete your CNA training through their hybrid program format, which combines online theory instruction with in-person clinical practice.

The college serves students in Orange County and the broader Los Angeles area. Their campus at 618 E. Whittier Blvd in La Habra functions as both a training facility and an approved testing site for the California CNA State Exam. You benefit from a pass rate exceeding 96% at their on-campus testing events.

CDPH and BPPE Accreditation

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) certifies LGL College's CNA program, which confirms the curriculum meets state standards for nursing assistant training. This certification allows you to sit for the California Nursing Assistant Competency Examination after program completion.

The Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE) provides additional oversight through its accreditation. BPPE approval indicates the career college adheres to California's educational standards for private postsecondary institutions. Your program completion at a BPPE-approved institution ensures your training receives official state recognition.

Both accreditations work together to validate your education. CDPH certification specifically covers healthcare training standards, while BPPE accreditation addresses broader educational quality requirements for career college operations.

Quality Standards in Nursing Education

State-approved CNA programs must follow specific curriculum requirements and clinical hour mandates. Your training at LGL College includes structured coursework that covers patient care fundamentals, vital signs monitoring, and clinical skills practice.

The nursing education you receive prepares you for employment in hospitals, long-term care facilities, rehabilitation centers, and home health agencies. Clinical training occurs in real healthcare settings where you apply classroom knowledge under supervision.

You need a valid State ID or Driver's License and an SSN or ITIN to enroll. No GED is required for program entry. The college offers job placement assistance after you complete training and pass the state exam.

LGL College CNA Program Structure

LGL College provides CDPH-approved nurse assistant program options with flexible schedules and a hybrid learning model. The training combines online theory instruction with in-person clinicals at healthcare facilities in Southern California.

CNA Class Schedules and Formats

You can choose from three distinct CNA classes schedules designed to accommodate different lifestyles. The Day Program runs 30 days over 6 weeks, Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM. An Evening Program extends 52 days over 11 weeks on weekdays from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The Weekend Program operates 24 days over 12 weeks on Saturdays and Sundays from 7:00 AM to 7:30 PM.

Each format delivers the same state-required curriculum: a minimum of 60 hours of theory and 100 hours of clinical training. You need to maintain a passing grade of 75% on coursework including the Carter workbook, quizzes, and clinical participation.

All three CNA program options lead to the same certification and on-campus state exam opportunity.

Hybrid Learning: Online Theory and In-Person Clinicals

Your CNA training follows a two-phase hybrid structure. The first half consists of online CNA classes covering theoretical content through a digital platform. The second half transitions to hands-on clinical training at partnered healthcare facilities.

Day Program students complete 3 weeks of online theory followed by 3 weeks of in-person clinicals. Evening Program participants split their 11 weeks evenly between online and clinical phases. Weekend students dedicate 6 weeks to each component.

You need compatible technology for the online CNA program portion: a PC or Mac running recent versions of Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge. Your computer requires a webcam, microphone, and internet speeds of 15 Mbps or higher. Zoom and Microsoft Teams applications are mandatory for virtual instruction.

Locations and Facility Partnerships

LGL College operates from 618 E. Whittier Blvd in La Habra, California 90631. This vocational school serves as your primary classroom location and functions as an approved CNA test site where you can take the state certification exam upon program completion.

Your clinical training takes place at partner healthcare facilities in Fullerton and La Mirada. These partnerships provide access to real healthcare environments where you gain practical patient care experience under supervision.

The career academy maintains relationships with multiple healthcare organizations throughout Orange County to support job placement assistance after certification.

Eligibility, Admissions, and Program Requirements

LGL College requires applicants to be at least 16 years old with valid identification and either a Social Security Number or ITIN. Students must also complete health screenings, background checks, and obtain BLS certification before beginning clinical training.

Minimum Entry Requirements

You must be at least 16 years of age to enroll in the CNA program at LGL College. A valid state ID or driver's license is required for identification purposes. You also need to provide your SSN (Social Security Number) or ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) for verification.

No high school diploma or GED is required to begin your medical training. This makes the program accessible to students who want to start their healthcare career without completing traditional educational prerequisites. You simply need to apply, choose your preferred start date, and confirm your seat in the program.

Live Scan and Background Checks

All CNA students must complete a live scan fingerprinting and background check before starting clinical rotations. This requirement is mandated by the California Department of Public Health for anyone working in healthcare settings. The live scan process screens for criminal history that could disqualify you from patient care roles.

You should initiate your background check early in the program to avoid delays in your clinical training. Certain criminal convictions may prevent you from obtaining CNA certification in California. The background check results are submitted directly to the state registry and remain valid for your certification application.

Health and BLS Certification Requirements

You must complete a health screening and provide proof of immunizations before entering clinical sites. Required immunizations typically include MMR, Tdap, Varicella, Hepatitis B, and an annual tuberculosis test. A physical examination confirming you can perform the essential functions of a CNA is also mandatory.

BLS certification (Basic Life Support) for healthcare providers is required before you begin hands-on clinical training. This certification teaches you CPR, AED use, and emergency response protocols. LGL College offers BLS courses on campus, or you can obtain certification through an approved provider like the American Heart Association.

CNA Certification and State Exam Details

The California CNA Competency Exam consists of a written knowledge test and a practical skills demonstration, both administered at approved testing sites. LGL College serves as an approved test site, allowing students to complete the state exam on campus immediately after program completion.

Preparing for the California CNA Competency Exam

Your preparation for the CNA exam begins during your training program with a combination of online theory coursework and in-person clinical practice. The California CNA Competency Exam tests both theoretical knowledge and practical skills you've learned throughout the program.

The written portion covers patient care procedures, safety protocols, communication skills, and legal responsibilities. You'll need to demonstrate proficiency in measuring vital signs, infection control, patient mobility assistance, and basic nursing procedures. The practical skills evaluation requires you to perform specific nursing tasks in a simulated clinical setting under examiner observation.

LGL College's program maintains a pass rate exceeding 96% for students taking the state exam. This high success rate reflects the comprehensive training you receive through the hybrid format of online theory sessions combined with hands-on clinical experience.

On-Campus State Exam Process

LGL College operates as an approved CNA test site in Southern California, administering the state exam directly on their La Habra campus. This on-campus testing arrangement eliminates the need to travel to external testing locations or wait for available appointment slots at other facilities.

You'll complete both components of the California CNA Competency Exam at the 618 E. Whittier Blvd location. The testing process includes registration verification, the written knowledge assessment, and the skills demonstration portion. Having the exam on campus provides familiarity with the environment and reduces testing anxiety for many students.

Certification Application Steps

After passing the CNA exam, your certification information gets submitted to the California Department of Public Health Healthcare Workforce Branch. This department maintains the California Nurse Aide Registry, the official record of certified nurse assistants in the state.

You must provide valid state identification (State ID or Driver's License) and your Social Security Number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number for registry enrollment. The Healthcare Professional Certification and Training Section processes your application and adds your name to the registry upon verification.

Once registered, employers can verify your certification status through the California Nurse Aide Registry. You'll need to maintain your certification through the registry, which tracks renewal requirements and certification status throughout your career as a certified nursing assistant.

Career Outcomes and Job Placement Support

LGL College supports your transition from training to employment through structured placement assistance and prepares you for diverse healthcare settings where CNAs work. You gain access to job search resources while understanding realistic salary expectations and pathways to advance beyond entry-level patient care roles.

Job Placement Assistance at LGL College

LGL College provides job placement assistance to help you secure CNA employment after certification. The program connects you with healthcare facilities actively hiring certified nursing assistants in your area.

You receive support through several channels. Career advisors help you prepare your resume, practice interview skills, and identify employers that match your schedule and location preferences. The college maintains relationships with hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies that regularly recruit from their graduate pool.

Job placement assistance typically includes:

• Resume writing workshops focused on healthcare positions
• Interview preparation specific to CNA roles
• Direct employer connections through hiring events
• Application support for clinical facilities

Many graduates secure employment within weeks of passing the state exam. The college tracks placement outcomes to ensure training aligns with current employer needs in the healthcare workforce.

Employment Settings for CNAs

You can work as a CNA in multiple healthcare environments, each offering different patient populations and shift structures. The certification qualifies you for positions in both clinical and community-based settings.

Common employment options include:

• Long-term care facilities providing daily assistance to residents
• Hospitals supporting acute care nursing teams
• Home health agencies delivering one-on-one patient care
• Rehabilitation centers assisting with recovery programs
• Assisted living communities helping with activities of daily living

Long-term care and skilled nursing facilities employ the largest number of CNAs. Home health agencies offer more independence but require reliable transportation. Hospital positions often include more specialized patient care and opportunities to observe advanced procedures.

Your choice of setting affects your daily responsibilities, patient interactions, and advancement opportunities within that facility type.

Salary and Career Advancement Opportunities

CNA salaries vary by location, experience, and work setting. California CNAs typically earn between $35,000 and $45,000 annually, with higher wages in urban areas and specialized facilities. Shift differentials for evenings, nights, and weekends can increase your base pay.

Career advancement often follows two paths. You can pursue additional certifications within the CNA role, such as specialized training in dementia care or wound care, which may qualify you for higher pay rates. Alternatively, many CNAs use their experience as a foundation for nursing school.

Common advancement paths include:

Employers value CNA experience when you apply for higher-level healthcare positions. Many hospitals and nursing programs offer tuition assistance or bridge programs specifically designed for working CNAs who want to become a licensed vocational nurse or RN.

Continuing Education and Advancement Opportunities

CNAs who complete their initial certification can access continuing education requirements for license renewal, bridge programs to higher nursing credentials, and free or low-cost training options that expand their qualifications without significant financial burden.

Continuing Education for CNA License Renewal

Most states require CNAs to complete continuing education units (CEUs) to maintain their active certification status. California mandates that you work at least 48 hours as a paid nursing assistant during each two-year renewal period to keep your certification current.

If you haven't worked the required hours, you'll need to complete a state-approved refresher course before renewal. These courses typically cover 48 hours of instruction and clinical practice, reviewing essential patient care skills and updated healthcare protocols.

Many healthcare facilities offer employer-sponsored CEU programs at no cost to their staff. You can also find free online options through state-approved providers, though you should verify that any program you choose meets California Department of Public Health (CDPH) requirements for nursing assistant training. Documentation of your completed hours and employer verification will be necessary when you submit your renewal application.

Pathways to Further Nursing Programs

Your CNA certification serves as a stepping stone to advanced healthcare roles. The most direct path is enrolling in a CNA-to-RN bridge program, which allows you to apply your clinical experience toward becoming a Registered Nurse.

LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) programs typically take 12-18 months and represent an intermediate step between CNA and RN credentials. Many community colleges and vocational schools offer flexible schedules that accommodate working CNAs.

Advanced CNA specializations include:

• Patient Care Technician - combines CNA skills with EKG and phlebotomy
• Medication Aide - authorizes medication administration under supervision
• Critical Care CNA - prepares you for ICU and emergency department settings

These specialized certifications increase your earning potential by 20-30% compared to entry-level CNA positions. Most advanced programs require 6-12 weeks of additional training beyond your initial certification.

Free and Online CNA Training Opportunities

Free CNA training programs exist through workforce development grants, healthcare facility partnerships, and state-funded initiatives. California's Employment Development Department (EDD) offers funding for eligible candidates pursuing nursing assistant training at approved institutions.

Online CNA classes provide flexibility for students with work or family obligations. CDPH-approved hybrid programs combine online coursework with required in-person clinical hours, since hands-on patient care practice cannot be completed virtually.

You should confirm that any free or online program you consider is CDPH-approved and includes the mandatory 150 hours of training (50 hours classroom, 100 hours clinical). Some healthcare employers offer tuition reimbursement programs that cover your training costs in exchange for a commitment to work at their facility for a specified period after certification.

Frequently Asked Questions

LGL College's CNA program requires valid identification and a Social Security Number or ITIN for enrollment, with flexible schedules ranging from 6 to 12 weeks depending on your availability. The college also provides options for government-funded training and various program formats to fit different student needs.

What are the requirements for enrolling in LGL College's Certified Nurse Assistant program?

You need a valid State ID or Driver's License along with your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to enroll. The program requires you to be at least 16 years old.

No GED or high school diploma is required for admission. This makes the program accessible to students from various educational backgrounds who want to start a healthcare career.

How long does the CDPH-approved CNA training at LGL College take to complete?

The Day Program runs for 30 days over 6 weeks, with classes Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM. You complete the first 3 weeks of online theory followed by 3 weeks of in-person clinical training.

The Evening Program extends to 52 days over 11 weeks for students who need to balance work or other commitments. Classes meet Monday through Friday from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with 5.5 weeks dedicated to online theory and 5.5 weeks to clinical training.

The Weekend Program takes 24 days over 12 weeks, meeting on Saturdays and Sundays from 7:00 AM to 7:30 PM. This format provides 6 weeks of online theory and 6 weeks of clinical practice for students with weekday obligations.

Can I enroll in a government-funded Certified Nurse Assistant program at LGL College?

LGL College offers free CNA training opportunities through government-funded programs. The college is WASC Accredited, I-TRAIN Listed, and BPPE Approved, which qualifies it for various funding programs.

You can attend weekly orientation sessions every Tuesday from 10:30 AM to 11:00 AM via Zoom to learn about eligibility requirements. These sessions provide information about available funding options and how to apply for them.

Does LGL College offer an accelerated CNA training option?

The Day Program serves as the fastest option at LGL College, requiring only 6 weeks to complete. You attend classes full-time Monday through Friday, which allows you to finish your training and begin working sooner than part-time options.

This accelerated format maintains the same comprehensive curriculum as longer programs. You receive the same quality of online theory instruction and hands-on clinical experience in a condensed timeframe.

Are there any free CNA classes available through LGL College?

LGL College provides free CNA training through government-funded programs for eligible students. Eligibility requirements vary based on the specific funding source and may depend on factors such as income level or employment status.

The college also offers flexible payment options through Affirm for students who don't qualify for free training. These payment plans allow you to buy now and pay later, with rates ranging from 0% to 36% APR based on your eligibility check.

What are the benefits of completing a CDPH-approved CNA apprenticeship with LGL College?

CDPH approval ensures your training meets California Department of Public Health standards, which is essential for taking the state certification exam. LGL College serves as an approved CNA test site, so you can complete your state exam on campus after finishing the program.

The college reports a pass rate exceeding 96% for students taking the exam at their private testing events. This high success rate demonstrates the quality of instruction and preparation you receive during the program.

You gain access to job placement assistance upon completion, with connections to hospitals, medical clinics, rehabilitation centers, nursing facilities, home health agencies, and hospice organizations. The program prepares you to work in multiple healthcare settings across California.