Cambridge College of Healthcare & Technology offers a 5-week, 120-hour Nursing Assistant program at its Miami Gardens campus. The program prepares students for Florida CNA certification through a mix of classroom instruction, lab training, and real-world externships. Key benefits include experienced instructors, career coaching, and access to industry-current medical equipment. Upon completion, students are eligible to sit for the state exam and begin entry-level roles in hospitals, long-term care, and other medical facilities.
A Quick Start to a CNA Career
If you’re looking to enter the healthcare field without spending years in school, Cambridge’s Nursing Assistant program might be the right choice. In just five weeks, students complete 120 hours of instruction and practical training that covers all the essentials needed to become a Certified Nursing Assistant in Florida. The curriculum focuses on helping students pass the state CNA exam while developing the day-to-day skills needed for direct patient care.
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Curriculum Breakdown
The program is split into two courses:
- NA101 – Nursing Assistant (80 hours)
- NA102 – Nursing Assistant Externship (40 hours)
You’ll start with classroom instruction and hands-on practice in a lab setting, where you’ll learn how to check vital signs, assist with bathing and dressing, document patient interactions, and understand the basics of healthcare and medication administration. After completing NA101, students move on to NA102, which provides externship experience in a local medical facility.
This externship is a key strength of the program. It allows you to apply what you’ve learned in a real medical setting while working alongside nurses and other healthcare professionals.
What You’ll Learn
This program covers all the foundational areas that CNAs need to master:
- Patient care basics
- Recording and capturing vital signs
- Communicating with nurses and doctors
- Assisting with daily activities like eating, grooming, and mobility
- Basic wound care and safety procedures
- Using and maintaining medical records
The training is designed to be direct and applicable, helping you build real confidence before entering the job market.
Real-World Training with an Externship
Cambridge partners with long-term care facilities and other healthcare employers in the Miami area to give students a taste of what it’s really like to work as a CNA. This isn’t just shadowing—you’ll be interacting with patients and staff, applying your skills under the supervision of licensed nurses. These externship opportunities are particularly valuable if you’ve never worked in healthcare before, as they give you a clearer sense of the demands and rewards of the job.
Instructors with Industry Experience
One of the things that sets Cambridge apart is the quality of its instructors. According to the program, teachers are experienced healthcare professionals who bring real-world insights into the classroom. That can be especially helpful when learning hands-on skills or preparing for patient interactions. Having access to instructors who’ve “been there” gives students the opportunity to ask questions, gain advice, and better understand the profession they’re entering.
Modern Learning Environment
The Miami campus is described as modern, accessible, and well-equipped. Students benefit from working with industry-current medical equipment—the same types of tools and devices used in local hospitals and care facilities. If you’re a hands-on learner, this is an important factor. Simulated training labs help bridge the gap between classroom theory and clinical practice.
The location itself is convenient, with easy access for commuters, plenty of parking, and public transportation options. That makes it easier for working students or those with other obligations to attend.
Certification and Career Outlook
Once students complete the 120-hour program, they’re eligible to take the Florida (or Georgia) CNA certification exam. This credential is required to work as a nursing assistant in most medical settings, and Cambridge supports students by offering exam preparation resources, including:
- Practice tests
- Study groups
- One-on-one prep sessions
After passing the exam, graduates can apply for jobs in:
- Hospitals
- Skilled nursing facilities
- Home health agencies
- Clinics
- Private medical offices
Career Support and Placement Assistance
Cambridge offers career coaching and job placement support through its Career Services department. This is a nice bonus, particularly for students who may be entering the workforce for the first time or are unfamiliar with job-hunting in healthcare. The staff includes professionals with experience in HR and medical hiring, which could help connect graduates with local employers in need of CNAs.
That said, the program doesn’t guarantee employment. While the support is appreciated and likely helpful, students should still take personal initiative in applying for jobs and preparing for interviews.
Admissions Requirements
While the program description doesn’t list detailed entry requirements, students should expect to meet typical CNA program standards. Most likely requirements include:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Possess a high school diploma or GED
- Pass a background check (especially to qualify for the externship)
It’s a good idea to call the admissions office directly to confirm any specific prerequisites.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Short duration (just 5 weeks)
- Externship included with hands-on training
- Modern lab facilities and real-world medical equipment
- Career support through job placement services
- Prepares for Florida CNA certification exam
Cons:
- No mention of financial aid or tuition cost
- No evening/weekend or online options
- Program may move too quickly for students who prefer a slower pace or need part-time schedules
- Some students may prefer a program with deeper specialization (like geriatric care)
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Who Should Consider Cambridge College of Healthcare & Technology
Cambridge’s Nursing Assistant program is a smart choice for motivated individuals who want to get started in healthcare quickly and prefer hands-on training in a structured, in-person learning environment. The five-week format is ideal for those with limited time who still want to gain real-world experience through an externship.
The program is particularly suited for recent high school grads, career changers, or entry-level healthcare workers looking to become CNAs in a short amount of time. The fact that it includes state exam prep, lab work, and clinical practice all within five weeks makes it an efficient and focused path to certification.
However, it may not be the best fit for someone who needs night classes, remote learning options, or a longer format to absorb material at a slower pace. If you’re ready to jump into the medical field, learn by doing, and work with experienced instructors who offer career support, this program is worth exploring.
Category | Details |
Cost: | Not specified (contact school directly for current tuition) |
Duration & Clock Hours: | 5 weeks, 120 total clock hours |
Evening/Weekend Classes?: | Not mentioned |
Online Classes?: | No |
Job Placement?: | Yes, career coaching and job placement assistance offered |
Requirements: | Likely includes: 18+ years old, high school diploma or GED, background check (externship requirement) |
Address: | 1000 Park Centre Boulevard, Suite 112, Miami Gardens, FL 33169 |
Phone: | (305) 627-3001 |
Website: | https://www.cambridgehealth.edu |
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