10 Best CNA Programs & Classes in Alaska [2025]

1. University of Alaska Anchorage

3500 Seawolf Dr, Anchorage, AK 99508 (907) 786-4346

The CNA program at the University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) provides students with in-demand skills and hands-on training to launch a rewarding career in healthcare. This cost-effective, one-semester course covers medical terminology, anatomy, CPR, first aid, and skills labs to prepare students for the State of Alaska CNA exam.

UAA partners with local medical facilities to provide clinical rotations, ensuring students gain real-world experience. With strong local demand and high job placement rates for CNAs, UAA's program opens doors to begin a stable career where you can make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Apply today and gain licensed CNA skills in just one semester!

• Cost: $1800
• Program Length: 6 weeks
• Prerequisites: High school diploma or GED, background check, immunization records

2. University of Alaska Fairbanks

810 Salcha St, Fairbanks, AK 99709 (907) 474-7211

The University of Alaska Fairbanks offers an intensive one-semester CNA training program approved by the State Board of Nursing. Through classroom instruction, hands-on skills labs, and a 48-hour clinical practicum, students gain well-rounded preparation for the state CNA exam. With small class sizes led by licensed nurses, students receive personalized attention and feedback.

Clinical rotations at healthcare facilities provide real-world experience caring for patients with diverse needs. Beyond covering exam requirements, UAF’s program focuses on building communication abilities and confidence interacting with people – essential skills for any nursing or healthcare career. This high-quality training serves as an ideal launch pad to begin making a meaningful difference in others’ lives.

• Cost: Not mentioned
• Program Length: 6 weeks
• Prerequisites: High school diploma or GED, background check, immunization records, CPR certification

3. University of Alaska Fairbanks Community & Technical College

604 Barnette St, Fairbanks, AK 99701 (907) 455-2800

Offering flexible in-person or blended online and on-campus courses, UAF Community & Technical College makes certified nursing assistant training accessible. This intensive one-semester program approved by the State Board of Nursing blends classroom instruction, hands-on skills practice in the College's state-of-the-art labs, and a 48-hour clinical practicum at local medical facilities.

Students gain real-world experience caring for patients with diverse needs while receiving close guidance from licensed nurse instructors. With daytime and evening course options offered during the fall and spring semesters, UAF CTC’s CNA program empowers students to gain licensed skills on a schedule that fits their lives. The ideal launch pad for healthcare careers, apply today to begin making a difference.

• Cost: Not mentioned
• Program Length: 6 weeks
• Prerequisites: High school diploma or GED, background check, immunization records, CPR/BLS certification

4. Kenai Peninsula College

156 College Rd, Soldotna, AK 99669 (907) 262-0320

Kenai Peninsula College offers an accessible entry point into healthcare through its 6-credit CNA training program. Approved by the State of Alaska, this intensive course blends 60 hours of classroom instruction in medical terminology and anatomy with 32 hours of skills labs and 48 hours of clinical rotations at local hospitals and care facilities.

Small class sizes and experienced instructors ensure students gain hands-on practice providing compassionate care for patients with diverse needs. KPC’s CNA program allows you to quickly gain licensed qualifications to begin making a difference in people’s lives, whether as a first step towards nursing/medicine or improving quality of life through direct care. Apply today to get on the path towards this fulfilling career.

• Cost: $1404
• Program Length: 4-6 weeks
• Prerequisites: High school diploma or GED, background check, immunization records

5. University of Alaska Southeast

11066 Auke Lake Way, Juneau, AK 99801 (907) 796-6100

The University of Alaska Southeast offers an intensive CNA training program blending 60 hours of classroom lectures with 80 hours of hands-on skills and clinical experience. Approved by the State of Alaska, this coursework prepares students to provide compassionate care as an efficient member of a nursing team. Students must pass all didactic and clinical components with a 75% or higher to qualify for the state certification exam.

UAS partners with local healthcare facilities to provide real-world training caring for patients with diverse needs under the guidance of experienced nurse instructors. This accessible program allows students to quickly gain licensed CNA qualifications and begin making a meaningful difference in people’s lives through direct care roles.

• Cost: Not mentioned
• Program Length: 6-8 weeks
• Prerequisites: High school diploma or GED, background check, immunization records, CPR certification (BLS)

6. Kodiak College

117 Benny Benson Dr, Kodiak, AK 99615 (907) 486-4161

Kodiak College provides a supportive university environment for CNA students to gain essential healthcare knowledge and hands-on skills. This fall-semester program combines classroom lectures on topics like medical terminology, patient rights, and care approaches with practical skill-building at local medical facilities.

Small class sizes ensure personalized guidance from experienced nursing faculty. Upon successfully completing 60 hours of coursework and 48 hours of clinical training, students are eligible for Alaska CNA certification and prepared to begin compassionately caring for patients. Whether seeking to jumpstart a nursing career or gain qualifications for direct patient care roles, Kodiak College’s CNA program allows you to quickly start making a difference in your community.

• Cost: Not mentioned
• Program Length: 8 weeks
• Prerequisites: High school diploma or GED, background check, immunization records, CPR/BLS certificate

7. Alaska Job Corps Center

800 Lynn Martin Dr, Palmer, AK 99645 (907) 861-8800

Alaska Job Corps Center offers hands-on CNA training to launch careers making a meaningful difference in healthcare. This program combines classroom and skills labs with practical experience at local medical facilities to prepare students for rewarding in-demand roles.

Coursework covers care approaches, safety protocols, clinical skills like vital measurements, feeding assistance, patient transfers, personal hygiene care, and more. Job Corps handles certification exam fees – students earn credentials including National CNA certification, CPR, First Aid, and Alaska CNA licensure. With small class sizes and passionate instructors, Job Corps’ accessible training platform serves as an affordable path to gain qualifications, confidence, and knowledge to provide compassionate support care or further your nursing education.

• Cost: Not mentioned
• Program Length: 4-6 weeks
• Prerequisites: Should be a US citizen, High school diploma or GED, background check, health screening test

8. Matanuska-Susitna College

8295 College Dr, Palmer, AK 99645 (907) 745-9774

Matanuska-Susitna College’s mission-driven CNA program prepares students with essential skills and hands-on training to launch meaningful careers improving healthcare accessibility. This intensive 6-week course blends classroom lectures, skills labs for techniques like specimen collection and vital sign measurements, and invaluable clinical rotations providing direct care for patients under instructor guidance.

With compassionate instructors supporting small classes, students gain confidence providing care, documenting patient interactions, assisting nurses, and enhancing quality of life through human connection. MSC’s program sets graduates up to pass Alaska CNA certification exams and begin making positive impacts as ethical, empathetic healthcare team members. Start your rewarding career by helping others today!

• Cost: $3424
• Program Length: 8 weeks
• Prerequisites: High school diploma or GED, background check, immunization records

9. Alaska CNA Program

1569 Bragaw St #102, Anchorage, AK 99508 (907) 267-9113

Dedicated to excellence in CNA training, Alaska CNA Program equips students with essential patient care skills through a 6-week blended course approved by the State Board of Nursing. Led by experienced nurse instructors, the curriculum blends online learning and weekend/evening skills labs focused on building job-ready competencies in a supportive environment.

Students then complete 80 hours of clinical rotations providing hands-on care at local facilities under close supervision. Beyond classroom and clinical hours required for certification, Alaska CNA’s career-focused education, job placement assistance, and reputation within the healthcare community set graduates up for success helping others through meaningful work.

• Cost: $1800
• Program Length: 4-8 weeks
• Prerequisites: High school diploma or GED, background check, immunization records, CPR certification

10. King Tech High School

2650 E Northern Lights Blvd, Anchorage, AK 99508 (907) 742-8900

King Tech High School offers rigorous CNA training blending 48 hours of clinical rotations with focused classroom prep for Alaska state certification. This fast-paced course approved by the State Board of Nursing provides hands-on skills practice while building knowledge in areas like medical terminology, anatomy, and first aid.

Under close supervision from licensed staff, students directly apply their developing abilities to care for patients in facilities like nursing homes, reinforcing career expectations. King Tech sets graduates up to compassionately support others as ethical medical team members. From the application screening to dual enrollment credits and pathways to test for credentials, this program empowers students with essential qualifications, empathy, and confidence to launch healthcare careers.

• Cost: Free for high school students
• Program Length: 1 semester
• Prerequisites: Enrollment as a high school student, background check, immunization and health screening

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)

Alaska Department of Commerce, Community & Economic Development
Division of Corporations, Business & Professional Licensing

550 W 7th Ave, Suite 1500
Anchorage, AK 99501
Phone: (907) 269-8169
Fax: (907) 269-8196
Email: Lisa.Maroney@alaska.gov
Registry Search Link

FAQs

Conclusion

To begin a career as a CNA in Alaska, complete a state-approved training program and pass the state exam. With numerous accredited programs and promising job opportunities, this path offers exciting possibilities. Use this guide to navigate your journey to becoming a CNA in the Last Frontier. Discover your ideal program and start your journey today!