American River College offers a highly regarded Nurse Assistant and Home Health Aide (NA/HHA) program for students seeking to enter the healthcare field. This comprehensive program provides students with the skills needed to work in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home health settings. The courses are approved by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), ensuring that students receive quality, accredited training. With a combination of classroom learning, lab practice, and clinical experience, students graduate with a strong foundation for success.
Program Format and Duration
The Nurse Assistant course at American River College is a 3.5-month in-person program, offering 86 hours of classroom instruction, 9 hours of skills lab practice, and over 100 hours of clinical experience. This hands-on training takes place at a nursing facility, where students work directly with patients under the supervision of experienced instructors. The Home Health Aide course, available for those who complete the Nurse Assistant program, adds an additional 80 hours of training, consisting of 40 hours of classroom theory and 40 hours of clinical practice.
Class Schedule
Classes for the Nurse Assistant program are offered during the fall and spring semesters. The schedule is designed to accommodate both traditional students and those balancing other commitments. Although specific class times may vary, students can expect a combination of daytime classroom sessions and clinical hours, which typically require full attendance. For students advancing to the Home Health Aide course, the program is offered during the last three weeks of the semester, providing a seamless continuation of training.
Accreditation and Certification
American River College's program is fully accredited by the CDPH, allowing graduates to sit for the state competency exam upon successful completion of the Nurse Assistant course. Passing this exam enables students to work in a variety of healthcare settings, including long-term care, rehabilitation centers, and subacute facilities. The Home Health Aide course is also CDPH-accredited, providing an additional certification for students looking to expand their employment opportunities in home health care.
Program Cost and Financial Aid
The total cost of the Nurse Assistant program is approximately $552, which is relatively affordable compared to other CNA programs in the region. While this program does not offer free tuition, American River College has several financial aid options for qualifying students. These include federal grants, scholarships, and payment plans. Students are encouraged to apply for financial assistance through the college's financial aid office. In addition, students may be eligible for workforce development programs that cover tuition and other educational expenses.
Instructors and Educational Experience
American River College's NA/HHA program is taught by experienced nursing professionals who bring years of clinical expertise to the classroom. These instructors not only guide students through the academic material but also offer real-world insights from their time in the healthcare industry. This practical knowledge enhances the student learning experience, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the challenges of the nursing field.
Job Placement and Career Support
Although American River College does not guarantee job placement, the school offers career services to help students transition into the workforce. These services include resume assistance, interview preparation, and access to job boards. Additionally, the college maintains partnerships with local healthcare providers, offering students a network of employment opportunities after graduation. Many students find positions in long-term care facilities, hospitals, or home health care services shortly after completing the program.
Overall, American River College's Nurse Assistant and Home Health Aide program provides students with affordable, accredited training that prepares them for meaningful careers in healthcare. With experienced instructors, hands-on clinical practice, and access to financial aid, this program is an excellent choice for students comparing CNA programs in the Sacramento area.
