American River College CNA Training
Premier CNA education in Sacramento with exceptional clinical partnerships and career support
About American River College
American River College, established in 1955, is one of California's premier community colleges located in Sacramento. The college's CNA program is highly regarded for its rigorous curriculum, exceptional clinical training opportunities, and strong connections with the region's top healthcare institutions.
ARC's nursing department maintains partnerships with UC Davis Medical Center, Sutter Health, and Kaiser Permanente, providing students with unparalleled clinical experiences. The program's experienced faculty and modern facilities ensure graduates are well-prepared for successful CNA careers in California's capital region.
Quick Facts
- Founded: 1955
- Location: 4700 College Oak Dr, Sacramento, CA 95841
- Type: Public Community College
- Accreditation: ACCJC/WASC
- CNA Program: CDPH State-Approved
Premier Clinical Sites
Train at UC Davis Medical Center, Sutter Health, Kaiser Permanente, and other top Sacramento healthcare facilities.
Experienced Faculty
Learn from registered nurses with decades of clinical experience and expertise in CNA education.
Financial Aid Available
Comprehensive financial aid including Pell Grants, scholarships, and payment plans to make education affordable.
State-Approved Curriculum
CDPH-approved 160-hour program meeting all California CNA training requirements with modern facilities.
CNA Program Details
Comprehensive 160-hour program with premium clinical training at Sacramento's leading healthcare facilities
Classroom Training
- 60 hours classroom instruction
- Modern simulation laboratory
- Interactive learning technology
- Experienced RN instructors
Clinical Experience
- 100 hours supervised clinical
- UC Davis Medical Center rotations
- Acute and long-term care settings
- Direct patient care experience
Clinical Sites
- UC Davis Medical Center
- Sutter Medical Center Sacramento
- Kaiser Permanente South Sacramento
- Mercy General Hospital
- Methodist Hospital of Sacramento
- Various skilled nursing facilities in Sacramento County
Program Schedule Options
Day Program
Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Duration: 8 weeks
Description: Full-time intensive program for faster completion
Evening Program
Schedule: Tuesday-Thursday, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM + Saturdays
Duration: 12 weeks
Description: Part-time option for working students
Program Costs & Financial Aid
Comprehensive cost breakdown with extensive financial aid options for qualified students
Program Costs Breakdown
Financial Aid Options
- Pell Grant: Up to $7,000+ annually for eligible students
- Cal Grant: California state grants for qualifying students
- Scholarships: Institutional and nursing-specific scholarships available
- Payment Plans: Extended payment options through ARC Cashier's Office
Investment in Your Future
ARC's CNA program provides exceptional value with premium clinical training at top Sacramento hospitals. Graduates typically recoup their investment within 3-4 months of employment with Sacramento's competitive CNA salaries.
Admission Requirements & Process
Step-by-step guide to applying for American River College's competitive CNA program
Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent (GED)
- Minimum age of 18 years for clinical
- Complete ARC application and assessment
- Pass English and math placement tests
- Submit health clearance and immunizations
- Clear criminal background check
- Attend mandatory program orientation
Submit Application
Apply to ARC online and complete the assessment for English and math placement
Meet Prerequisites
Complete any required prerequisite courses based on assessment results
Apply to CNA Program
Submit separate application to the CNA program with required documentation
Health Requirements
Complete physical exam, immunizations, TB test, and drug screening
Background Clearance
Complete Live Scan fingerprinting and await background check clearance
Program Orientation
Attend mandatory orientation and confirm enrollment with payment
Application Deadlines
CNA program applications are accepted for Fall and Spring semesters. Due to limited enrollment, early application is strongly recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common questions about ARC's CNA training program
Begin Your Healthcare Career at American River College
Join Sacramento's premier CNA program with exceptional clinical training and career support