CNA Classes in Albuquerque, New Mexico

Find top-rated CNA training programs and certification courses near you

$48,600

Average CNA Salary

medium

Job Demand

6

Training Programs

CNA Classes Overview in Albuquerque

Albuquerque provides CNA opportunities with bilingual skills valued in healthcare settings.

Whether you're starting your healthcare career or looking to make a meaningful career change, becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Albuquerque offers excellent opportunities. Our comprehensive guide features accredited programs that prepare you for state certification and a rewarding career in healthcare.

CNA Classes & Training Programs Near Albuquerque

Central New Mexico Community College (CNM)

Community College

📍 525 Buena Vista Dr SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106

📞 (505) 224-3000

✉️ [email protected]

CNM offers a comprehensive CNA program that can be completed in just 8 weeks. The program includes 75 hours of classroom instruction and 40 hours of clinical training at local healthcare facilities. CNM also offers a hybrid option with online theoretical components.

Program Details:

  • Duration: 8 weeks
  • Schedule: Day, evening, and hybrid online options available
  • Total Cost: Approximately $800
  • Payment Options: Financial aid eligible, payment plans available
  • Prerequisites: High school diploma or GED, ACCUPLACER reading assessment
  • Financial Aid: Federal financial aid, CNM Foundation scholarships
  • Special Features: Hybrid online option available, Multiple campus locations, Strong clinical partnerships
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Pima Medical Institute

Private Career College

📍 4400 Cutler Ave NE, Albuquerque, NM 87110

📞 (505) 881-1234

✉️ [email protected]

Pima Medical Institute's Albuquerque campus provides an accelerated CNA program that can be completed in as little as 4 weeks. The program includes 75 hours of classroom and lab instruction, plus 40 hours of clinical training in healthcare facilities.

Program Details:

  • Duration: 4 weeks accelerated
  • Schedule: Full-time day program
  • Total Cost: Around $1,200
  • Payment Options: Federal loans, private financing, military benefits
  • Prerequisites: Pass background check and drug screening
  • Financial Aid: Title IV federal financial aid, VA benefits accepted
  • Special Features: Accelerated 4-week format, Career services support, Modern simulation lab
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Carrington College

Private Career College

📍 1001 Menaul Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87107

📞 (505) 254-7777

✉️ [email protected]

Carrington College's Albuquerque campus offers a CNA program that can be completed in 6 weeks. The program includes 75 hours of classroom and lab instruction, plus 40 hours of clinical training in local healthcare facilities.

Program Details:

  • Duration: 6 weeks
  • Schedule: Day and evening programs available
  • Total Cost: Approximately $1,500
  • Payment Options: Federal financial aid, payment plans, private loans
  • Prerequisites: High school diploma or GED, entrance assessment
  • Financial Aid: Title IV federal financial aid, Carrington scholarships
  • Special Features: Hands-on skills lab, Experienced instructors, Career services assistance
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New Mexico Department of Health

State-Sponsored Program

📍 Various locations throughout Albuquerque

📞 (505) 827-2613

✉️ [email protected]

The New Mexico Department of Health offers free CNA training programs for eligible individuals. These programs are designed to address the healthcare workforce shortage and provide opportunities for New Mexico residents to enter the healthcare field.

Program Details:

  • Duration: 4-6 weeks depending on schedule
  • Schedule: Various options available
  • Total Cost: FREE for eligible individuals
  • Payment Options: No cost to qualified applicants
  • Prerequisites: Meet income requirements, NM resident, employment eligibility
  • Financial Aid: Fully funded by state programs
  • Special Features: No cost training, Job placement assistance, State certification included
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Additional CNA Programs

University of New Mexico (UNM): Offers CNA training through continuing education department

American Red Cross - Albuquerque Chapter: Traditional Red Cross CNA certification program

Brookline College: Private institution with accelerated healthcare programs

Southwest University: Career-focused school with CNA and other healthcare training

New Mexico CNA Certification Requirements (2025)

New Mexico requires completion of a state-approved training program and passing both written and skills competency exams. The state uses the TestMaster Universe (TMU) system for certification management.

  • Complete NMHCA-approved training program (minimum 75 hours: classroom, lab, and clinical)
  • Pass Knowledge Exam with 74% or higher (60 questions)
  • Pass Skills Exam with 80% or higher (3-4 tasks including hand hygiene)
  • Complete exams within 24 months of training completion
  • Maximum 3 attempts allowed per exam component
  • Criminal background check required
  • Must be at least 16 years old
  • Certification renewal every 2 years with proof of 8 hours employment

How to Choose the Right CNA Program

Program Accreditation

Ensure the program is approved by your state's nursing board and meets all certification requirements.

Schedule Flexibility

Look for programs offering day, evening, or weekend classes to fit your current commitments.

Clinical Experience

Quality programs include hands-on clinical training in real healthcare settings.

Cost and Financial Aid

Compare total costs and explore financial aid, scholarships, and payment plan options.

Your CNA Career Path in Albuquerque

1

Complete State-Approved Training

Enroll in and complete a state-approved CNA training program (typically 4-12 weeks).

2

Pass State Certification Exam

Successfully complete both written and skills portions of your state's CNA exam.

3

Begin Your Healthcare Career

Start working in hospitals, nursing homes, home health, or other healthcare settings.

4

Advance Your Career

Use your CNA experience as a stepping stone to LPN, RN, or other healthcare careers.