CNA Classes in Albuquerque, New Mexico

Albuquerque CNA Training - New Mexico

You can receive your CNA certification in as little as 3 to 8 weeks.

Admissions Advisor Tip: Don't limit your options. Contact multiple schools to to compare their different offers, like financial aid packages.

Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Albuquerque, New Mexico

About Albuquerque

Albuquerque, the largest city in New Mexico, is known for its vibrant culture, historic landmarks, and scenic landscapes. Nestled in the high desert, Albuquerque offers a unique blend of Native American and Hispanic heritage. Popular neighborhoods include Old Town, Nob Hill, and the Downtown area. For more information about the city, visit the official Albuquerque website.

CNA Training Programs in Albuquerque, New Mexico

If you are considering a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Albuquerque, there are several local programs to help you get started. Here are three reputable schools offering CNA courses:

1. Central New Mexico Community College (CNM)
   • Location: Main Campus, 525 Buena Vista Dr SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106
   • Program Description: CNM offers a comprehensive Nursing Assistant Certificate program that prepares students for the New Mexico Nurse Aide Competency Exam. The program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience.
   • Link: CNM Nursing Assistant Program
2. Pima Medical Institute
   • Location: 4400 Cutler Ave NE, Albuquerque, NM 87110
   • Program Description: Pima Medical Institute provides a Nursing Assistant/Nurse Aide program designed to equip students with the skills necessary to provide quality care in various healthcare settings. The curriculum covers essential topics such as patient care, infection control, and basic nursing skills.
   • Link: Pima Medical Institute Nursing Assistant Program
3. Brookline College
   • Location: 4201 Central Ave NW, Suite J, Albuquerque, NM 87105
   • Program Description: Brookline College offers a Nursing Assistant program that combines theoretical knowledge with practical training. The program prepares students for the New Mexico Nurse Aide Registry Exam and provides a strong foundation for a career in healthcare.
   • Link: Brookline College Nursing Assistant Program

CNA Employment Opportunities in Albuquerque

Albuquerque is home to several major healthcare facilities and nursing homes where CNAs can find employment opportunities. Here are some of the top employers in the city:

1. University of New Mexico Hospital (UNMH)
   • Location: 2211 Lomas Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106
   • Description: UNMH is a teaching hospital affiliated with the University of New Mexico School of Medicine. It is the state’s only Level I Trauma Center and provides a wide range of medical services.
   • Link: UNMH Employment Opportunities
2. Presbyterian Hospital
   • Location: 1100 Central Ave SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106
   • Description: Presbyterian Hospital is one of the largest healthcare providers in New Mexico, offering comprehensive medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized treatments.
   • Link: Presbyterian Hospital Careers
3. Lovelace Medical Center
   • Location: 601 Dr Martin Luther King Jr Ave NE, Albuquerque, NM 87102
   • Description: Lovelace Medical Center is a leading healthcare facility in Albuquerque, known for its advanced medical care, including cardiac services, orthopedics, and women’s health.
   • Link: Lovelace Medical Center Careers

CNA Certification Requirements in New Mexico

To become a Certified Nursing Assistant in New Mexico, individuals must meet the following requirements:

1. Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program: Enroll in and successfully complete a nursing assistant program approved by the New Mexico Department of Health.
2. Pass the Competency Exam: After completing the training program, candidates must pass the New Mexico Nurse Aide Competency Exam, which includes both a written and a skills test.
3. Background Check: Submit to a criminal background check as part of the certification process.
4. Register with the New Mexico Nurse Aide Registry: Once the exam is passed, candidates must register with the New Mexico Nurse Aide Registry.

For more detailed information, visit the New Mexico Department of Health and the New Mexico Nurse Aide Registry.

Get Started Today

If you are ready to embark on a rewarding career as a Certified Nursing Assistant in Albuquerque, New Mexico, now is the time to take the first step. Contact one of the local schools listed above to learn more about their CNA programs and begin your journey toward a fulfilling job in healthcare.

PCT · CNA · CMA – What’s the Difference?

This depends on where you live. Some PCT courses include EKG and phlebotomy training. Some Patient Care Technician programs also include HHA (Home Health Aid) certification. However, in some work environments the titles CNA and PCT are used interchangably. Some hospitals in New Mexico may be hiring Nurse Care Techs (NCT), a position which you can apply for with your CNA license.

CMA can stand for Certified Medication Aide or Certified Medical Assistant, both which perform separate but overlapping duties in the workplace.

How Much Does CNA Training Cost in Albuquerque?

Nursing assistant courses at vocational colleges and allied health schools usually range between $400 and $1200. When choosing a CNA school, learn about all the associated costs required at each institution. Some schools list their program cost as all expenses included. However other schools may also require you to purchase additional materials (such as books, scrubs and materials for your clinicals) which have separate fees from the tuition costs.

CNA Refresher Courses around Albuquerque usually cost around $100-$200.

Need Tuition Assistance?

While not all schools offer financial aid for students enrolled in their CNA course, some training programs may offer assistance to help with the cost of the course or certification. Also, some CNA employers will even pay for your Nurse Assistant training or reimburse you after you successfully complete your CNA training.

Some employers in Albuquerque will cover a percentage of your CNA tuition; others will pay tuition costs up to a specific dollar amount. Often, new CNAs are required to work a particular number of months at the employer that covered their school bills. Or you may just need to reimburse them for any of the tuition costs they paid on your behalf.

When Can I Start CNA Training in Albuquerque?

Many schools that offer CNA training have new sessions beginning every 6 to 8 weeks. In many areas in New Mexico, you can find CNA training starting in December 2024, January 2025, February 2025, or March 2025 available for registration now. Unlike nursing programs in New Mexico, you can usually find a school starting a new session of their CNA course fairly quickly. However, some schools offer CNA classes in semester format. At these schools, you may need to wait up 3 or 4 months to start your course.

Becoming a Nurse Aide in Albuquerque is a great way to quickly gain experience in the medical field. Also check out New Mexico CNA Salary info.