Frequently Asked Questions for the CNA and Geriatric Care Technician Program
When will it start?
How do I apply?
How are the candidates selected?
What are the steps that I need to take for the application process and prepare for enrollment in the program?
What about the physical examination, drug screen, and immunizations?
What about fingerprinting and background check?
What about the CPR card?
What is the estimated total cost of the program?
How are the classes scheduled?
How do I become certified as a Nurse Assistant?
How do I become certified as a Geriatric Care Technician?
When will it start?
- The CNA class will begin spring semester 2007, beginning February 13, 2007 - June 3, 2007.
- The Geriatric Care Technician class will be offered during the winter and summer 2007 sessions.
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How do I apply?
Applications are available in online, the Allied Health Office (Building A-9), or Counseling Department (Building A-10).
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How are candidates selected?
Candidates are selected on a first-come, first-serve basis and subject to completion of all eligibility requirements listed on the website.
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What are the steps that I need to take for the application process and prepare for enrollment in the program?
- Obtain an application to the program.
- Submit the application and required paperwork to the Allied Health Division , Building A-9.
- Enroll at West Los Angeles College.
- Show proof of entry college level Math and English courses that have been taken with a passing grade ("C" or better), or take the mathematics and English assessment at West Los Angeles College, with a minimum placement in to English 20A and Math 105.
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What about the physical examination, drug screen, and immunizations?
Prior to acceptance into the program, entering students must provide proof of a physical exam, negative drug screen, and necessary immunizations including a TB test within the last 3 months. Students may get these services from their private physician or go to clinics listed on the student resource list provided in the application packet. Students are required to have this by a combination of the Department of Health Services and our clinical affiliates. This protects you from patients that may have a communicable disease and vice versa.
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What about fingerprinting and background check?
The program will provide the necessary forms and these services will be provided to the student at no cost and will be performed in class.
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What about the CPR card?
Students need to obtain a Basic Life Support CPR for the Healthcare provider completion card prior to starting the program. A CPR course is available through the UCLA Center for Prepositional Care at (310) 267-5959.
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What is the estimated total cost of the program?
West Fees at $20/unit
Nurse Assistant= 5 units x $20 = $100
Geriatric Care = 4 units x $20 = $80 |
$180 |
| Course Textbook |
$50 |
| Malpractice Insurance |
$20 |
| CPR Course Fees |
$35-65 |
| Uniforms |
$35 |
| Stethoscope |
$25 |
| Drug screen, physical, and immunizations |
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| Closed-toe shoes (tennis shoes, no clogs or heels) |
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| State examination administered by the American Red Cross |
$90 |
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How is the class scheduled?
- The Nurse Assistant class is formatted as follows:
- 54 hours of lecture
- From February 13 - March 29, 2007, Tuesday and Thursdays from 6:30 pm to 9:05 pm
- From April 10 - May 22, 2007, Tuesdays from 6:05 pm - 9:05 pm.
- The Geriatric Care course will have a similar schedule and be offered in the winter 2007, beginning Wednesday, January 2 - February 11, 2007 and Summer 2007. Prerequisite: a CNA certificate or completion of the Nurse Assistant course at West Los Angeles College.
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How do I become certified as a Nurse Assistant?
Upon meeting the hour and academic requirements for the Nurse Assistant program, students are eligible to sit for the State of California Certifying Examination. Students must have a valid photo ID (i.e. driver's license, state ID, or passport AND an original social security card to sit for the examination.
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How do I become certified as a Geriatric Care Technician?
Currently, there is not a State Certification for this course. Students meeting the academic requirements for this program will be issued a completion certificate in Geriatric Care from West Los Angeles College.
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