Building the Future of Healthcare
Santiago Canyon College's Growing Nursing Assistant (CNA) Program
Every great healthcare journey begins with a single step. For hundreds of students, that first step has been Santiago Canyon College Continuing Education's tuition-free Nursing Assistant (CNA) Program.
As the demand for compassionate, skilled healthcare professionals continues to grow, so does SCC's commitment to preparing students for meaningful careers. The Nursing Assistant Program has become one of the college's fastest-growing healthcare pathways, opening doors for individuals seeking stable, rewarding careers while helping meet the workforce needs of our local communities.
This fall marks an exciting milestone. For the first time, SCC Continuing Education will offer five CNA cohorts in a single semester, expanding access so more students can begin their healthcare journey. The growth reflects increasing student interest and the SCC’s dedication to providing high-quality, accessible education that leads directly to employment.
The program's impact now extends beyond the college campus. During the 2025–2026 school year, SCC proudly launched its first high school CNA cohort in partnership with Orange Unified School District at Canyon High School. The pilot program introduced students to healthcare careers while in high school, giving them the opportunity to develop clinical skills, earn a valuable healthcare certificate, and explore careers in patient care. Building on its success, SCC will welcome another high school cohort during the 2026–2027 school year, continuing to strengthen the healthcare workforce pipeline in Orange County.
One of the program's greatest strengths is that it is tuition-free, making healthcare education accessible to students from all backgrounds. The program combines classroom instruction, hands-on skills training, and supervised clinical experience to prepare students for the Nurse Assistant state exam and for success in the workplace. Along the way, students build the knowledge, professionalism, and confidence needed to provide compassionate, high-quality patient care.
Behind every successful student is a dedicated team of instructors and staff committed to helping learners thrive. From enrollment to externship, students receive guidance from experienced instructors and supportive staff. This encouraging environment helps students overcome challenges and confidently take the next step toward their career goals.
Completing the CNA program is just the beginning. SCC Continuing Education offers opportunities for graduates to continue advancing through stackable healthcare pathways. Students can enroll in the Nurse Assistant Acute Care program to prepare for hospital-based careers, and an upcoming Home Health Aide (HHA) program will provide additional training for those interested in serving patients at home.
Whether students are entering the workforce for the first time, changing careers, or building a foundation for a future in nursing, SCC's Nursing Assistant Program provides a pathway to success. With tuition-free training, experienced instructors, supportive staff, and opportunities for continued growth, the program is helping students transform their passion for helping others into meaningful careers.
As SCC prepares to welcome its largest CNA class yet, there has never been a better time to begin a career in healthcare. If you're ready to make a difference in the lives of others, the Nursing Assistant Program at Santiago Canyon College Continuing Education is ready to help you take that first step.