- 160-hour CNA program with flexible day, evening, and accelerated formats in Stockton, CA
- State exam site: students train and test at the same facility for convenience
- Affordable tuition ($1,550) with possible free training or tuition reimbursement options available
Program Format and Structure
Bradford College of Nursing offers a highly structured and hands-on Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training program designed to prepare students for immediate entry into the healthcare field. The program consists of 160 hours, combining classroom instruction with clinical experience. Students can choose from three formats: a 21-day accelerated program, a 6-week morning program, or a 6-week evening program. This flexibility allows students to select a schedule that fits their lifestyle, whether they’re balancing other work or family commitments.
Classes are held Monday through Friday. Morning theory sessions run from 9:00am to 1:00pm, while evening classes meet from 5:00pm to 9:00pm. All students must complete clinical rotations scheduled from 7:00am to 3:30pm. The 21-day program is ideal for students who want to finish quickly, with full-day classroom and clinical sessions running from 8:00am to 4:30pm for theory and 7:00am to 3:30pm for clinicals.
Admissions and Prerequisites
There are no extensive prerequisites listed for the program, making it accessible to individuals who are new to healthcare. While details like background checks, immunizations, or TB testing are not explicitly mentioned, these are typically required for CNA programs in California, and students should be prepared to meet standard state health and background requirements before beginning clinical rotations.
Tuition and Financial Aid
At $1,550, the tuition is competitively priced for CNA training programs in California. Bradford College of Nursing offers payment plans with weekly or bi-weekly options, making it manageable for students who cannot pay upfront. Additionally, prospective students are encouraged to call the school to inquire about free training or tuition reimbursement opportunities—something that may be available through partnerships with employers or government funding.
Accreditations and State Approval
Bradford College of Nursing is approved by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE), which is the licensing and oversight body for all private postsecondary schools in California. These credentials ensure that the curriculum meets state-mandated standards and that students are eligible to take the California CNA State Competency Exam. Additionally, the school is a certified test site for the CNA exam—allowing students to test at the same place they trained, which can ease exam-day stress and reduce travel logistics.
Instructional Approach and Faculty
The faculty at Bradford College of Nursing are described as highly dedicated professionals who view healthcare education as a personal mission. Students are taught by experienced educators who emphasize ethical, compassionate care. The program’s philosophy supports holistic, culturally competent training and encourages students to treat patients as they would their own family. This caring, service-oriented ethos is deeply embedded in the instructional approach.
Facilities and Learning Environment
The campus in Stockton includes modern classrooms, four dedicated skills lab rooms, a computer lab, library, and administrative offices. The facility is located in a well-regarded area of the city, with security cameras and adequate parking, especially convenient for evening students. With nearby access to I-5 and close proximity to cities like Modesto, Tracy, and Lodi, the location is practical for commuting students.
Job Placement and Career Support
While formal job placement services are not listed, the fact that Bradford is a test site for the CNA exam gives students a seamless path from education to certification. The program’s long-standing presence in the Stockton area (with a history going back to 1996) suggests strong community connections and a good local reputation, which can help students network for employment. Additionally, the school encourages inquiries about employer-based tuition reimbursement, indicating potential ties to hiring facilities.
What to Expect During and After the Program
Students can expect a demanding yet rewarding academic and hands-on training experience, with high expectations for professionalism, punctuality, and compassion. They will learn core competencies including infection control, basic nursing skills, communication, safety, and patient rights. Upon completion and successful testing, graduates will be eligible for entry-level roles in hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, or private care.
This program is a good fit for…
Prospective CNAs who are looking for a fast-track, affordable program with flexible scheduling and a supportive learning environment. It is especially ideal for career changers, working adults, or recent high school graduates who want to enter the healthcare field quickly. Students who value small class sizes, dedicated instructors, and local clinical experiences will thrive in this close-knit educational setting.
Program Information | Details |
Cost | $1,550.00 |
Program Duration | 6 weeks or 21 days (depending on format) |
Class Schedules | Morning: 9am–1pm, Evening: 5pm–9pm, Accelerated Day: 8am–4:30pm (Mon–Fri) |
Prerequisites | No |
Address | 7333 Tam O’Shanter Dr, Stockton, CA 95210 |
Phone | (209) 475-9854 |
[email protected] | |
Website | http://bradfordcareer.org/ |
Job Placement | No |
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