Key Points
- MTECH Lehi achieved a 100% licensure rate in 2025.
- Lehi's healthcare corridor creates steady demand for CNAs year-round.
- Utah's CNA training standards are more rigorous than the federal minimum.
How to Become a CNA in Lehi: Programs, Costs, and Steps
Compare Lehi's CNA programs side-by-side, with costs, schedules, and certification steps from MTECH and Orchard CNA.
Utah’s 65-plus population will double by 2035, which means Lehi’s healthcare employers need thousands of new CNAs in the coming years. That’s why local training programs are expanding to meet the need.
Two providers in Lehi, MTECH and Orchard CNA Training Center, offer the required Utah-approved training. This side-by-side comparison covers cost, schedule flexibility, state certification requirements, and local job outlook.
Lehi's Healthcare Landscape and CNA Demand
Rapid urban growth versus steady institutional healthcare expansion: these two forces are colliding in Lehi right now, and the result is one of the strongest local job markets for entry-level healthcare workers in Utah.
A City at the Center of Healthcare Access
Lehi sits in a strategically busy corridor between two major medical anchors. Utah Valley Hospital in Provo, a hub for CNA classes in Provo, and Intermountain Medical Center to the north both draw patients from across Utah County, and Lehi residents rely on both systems for specialty and emergency care. Closer to home, the city and its immediate neighbors host a growing network of senior living communities, assisted living facilities, rehabilitation centers, and outpatient clinics. Each of those settings depends on certified nursing assistants to provide the hands-on, daily care that keeps patients safe and comfortable.
Silicon Slopes Is Reshaping the Population
Lehi has become the heartbeat of Utah's Silicon Slopes tech corridor, attracting tens of thousands of new residents over the past decade. That population surge has not slowed. More residents mean more demand for healthcare services at every level, from pediatric clinics to long-term care beds. Alongside the younger tech workforce, a significant and growing share of Utah County's population is aging into the years when assisted living and skilled nursing support become necessary. Those two demographic currents running together create a sustained, structural need for CNAs, not a temporary hiring spike.
Why CNA Training Here Makes Sense
For anyone weighing a career move in 2026, the local math is straightforward. Healthcare employers in and around Lehi are actively hiring CNAs, and that demand is expected to grow as Utah County continues to expand. Training locally means you can build relationships with facilities during your clinical rotations, which often leads directly to job offers after certification. The infrastructure is already here. The patients are already here. The question is whether your CNA classes in Utah are, too.
The Provo-Orem metro area, which includes Lehi, holds one of Utah's densest clusters of hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. That concentration keeps CNA openings steady year-round, so newly certified aides in Lehi typically find work close to home without competing across the whole Wasatch Front.
CNA Programs in Lehi: MTECH vs Orchard at a Glance
As Lehi’s healthcare sector expands, choosing between the area’s two primary CNA training providers, Mountainland Technical College and Orchard CNA Training Center, requires a close look at cost, schedule, and career support.
Mountainland Technical College (MTECH) CNA Program
MTECH’s Lehi campus offers a state-supported Nursing Assistant program designed to prepare students for the Utah CNA certification exam. For the 2025-2026 academic year, the program’s total cost ranges from $735 to $845, covering tuition, fees, and required materials. This estimate is based on a per-credit cost of $120 and a total of 3 to 4 required credits, though additional expenses like textbooks or uniforms may apply.1 The program spans 114 to 144 instructional hours and can be completed in 2 to 4 months, depending on the schedule you choose.2
- Day classes: Traditional weekday schedules for those with daytime availability.
- Evening classes: Designed for students who work or have daytime commitments.
- High school A/B day: A block schedule option for enrolled high school students.
- Accelerated evening track: A faster-paced option that compresses the curriculum into a shorter timeframe.
MTECH stands out for its affordability, particularly through a high school tuition waiver that eliminates costs for eligible secondary students. The program includes exam preparation aligned with the state certification test, and students benefit from access to multiple clinical sites and campuses across the area. This breadth of clinical partnerships helps ensure hands-on experience in diverse healthcare settings.
Orchard CNA Training Center
Orchard CNA Training Center is a private provider in Lehi that has historically offered CNA training. However, as of mid-2026, specific details about tuition, program length, and class schedules for Orchard were not publicly available for a direct comparison. Prospective students should contact Orchard directly to obtain the most up-to-date information on costs, enrollment windows, and any unique features such as job placement assistance or clinical site partnerships.
Comparing Costs and Commitment
When weighing your options, MTECH’s public-supported pricing makes it a notably accessible choice, especially for high school students. The total expense of under $900 is competitive, and the range of scheduling options lets you balance training with work or school. Private programs like Orchard may offer different formats or personalized support, but verifying current tuition and outcomes is essential before committing. Remember that both programs will require you to pass the Utah CNA competency exam after completing training, so quality instruction and clinical hours are key regardless of the provider.
Next Steps: Verify Before Enrolling
Costs and schedules can shift between academic years or enrollment periods. Always confirm the latest figures with each program:
- Contact MTECH’s Lehi campus admissions office to confirm the current per-credit rate, any potential fee increases, and available start dates for your preferred schedule.
- Reach out to Orchard CNA Training Center to request a current breakdown of tuition, course hours, and class schedules.
- Ask both schools about their clinical site arrangements, exam pass rates, and any career services that can support your job search after certification.
MTECH Lehi's Nursing Assistant program reported a 95% first-time pass rate on the Utah CNA state exam in 2022, and by 2025 it achieved a 100% licensure rate among its graduates. That means virtually every student who completed the program went on to earn full CNA certification, placing MTECH among the top performers statewide.
CNA Training Schedules: Day, Evening, and Accelerated in Lehi
MTECH Standard and Accelerated Tracks
MTECH Lehi offers two primary CNA tracks to accommodate different schedules. The standard program runs four months and totals 144 hours, with day classes meeting from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and evening sections available Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM.1 This term-based format aligns with the academic calendar; for example, a recent summer cohort started on May 27, 2025.
For students who need to finish faster, MTECH also operates a seven to eight week accelerated track. This condensed program packs 114 hours into evening sessions on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM.2 Both tracks deliver the same state-approved curriculum and prepare students for the Utah CNA exam, but the accelerated path requires a more intensive commitment over a shorter window.
Orchard's Full-Time Immersive Model
Orchard CNA training in Lehi follows a very different calendar. The program compresses the entire certificate into two to three weeks of full-time instruction, combining classroom theory and hands-on clinical rotations in a single block. This immersive model suits students who can dedicate weekdays to training and want to enter the workforce almost immediately after completion. Orchard typically enrolls students on a rolling or monthly basis, so start dates occur more frequently than MTECH's term schedule.
Part-Time, Weekend, and Hybrid Options
Neither school currently advertises a dedicated weekend-only CNA track in Lehi. Some programs in other Utah cities have tested hybrid formats that pair online theory modules with in-person clinical skills labs, but Lehi CNA programs remain predominantly face-to-face for both lecture and clinical hours to ensure compliance with state board requirements for direct supervision.
Confirm Schedules Before You Enroll
Enrollment periods and class times can shift from one term to the next based on instructor availability and demand. Before you commit, call the admissions office at your chosen school to verify the next start date, confirm the exact meeting days and hours, and ask whether any new schedule options have been added. What appears on a website in early 2026 may not reflect late-summer or fall offerings, so a quick phone call ensures you plan around accurate information.
Utah CNA Requirements: Hours, Exams, and Certification
Utah updated its certified nursing assistant training standards in recent years, and as of 2026 the requirements are more rigorous than the federal minimum many neighboring states still follow. Here is what every prospective CNA in Lehi needs to know about CNA requirements before enrolling.
Total Training Hours
Utah requires 100 hours of approved CNA training, with at least 24 hours of hands-on clinical instruction in a long-term care facility.1 The remaining hours are split between classroom instruction and lab skills practice, depending on your program. Both MTECH and Orchard are structured to meet these state minimums.
The Competency Exam
Once you finish your approved program, you register for the CNA exam through D&SDT-Headmaster, Utah's current exam vendor.2 The exam has two parts:
- Written test: 75 multiple-choice questions with a passing score of 75 percent.1
- Skills evaluation: A hands-on demonstration of core nursing assistant skills assessed by a trained evaluator.1
You must pass both components to earn your certification. If you do not pass one part on the first attempt, you can retake only the section you did not pass, which saves time and money.
Background Check and Fingerprinting
Utah requires a criminal background check and fingerprinting for all CNA candidates.1 This step is initiated through your training program or directly through the Utah Nursing Assistant Registry (UNAR). Plan ahead, as processing times can vary and a delay here can push back your start date.
Certification Renewal
Your CNA certification is valid for two years. To renew, you must document 200 hours of paid nursing assistant work and complete 12 hours of in-service training within that two-year window.1 If your certification lapses, you may need to retrain and retest, so tracking your hours from day one is important.
Staying Current with the Rules
No major waivers that altered standard training or exam requirements were in effect for 2026 candidates at the time of publication, though federal and state guidance can shift. Always verify the latest rules directly with UNAR through the Utah CNA Registry website, and cross-reference the Utah Administrative Code R432-045 for the authoritative regulatory text.2
Questions to Ask Yourself
Do you need evening or weekend classes to work a day job?
MTECH offers evening cohorts at its Lehi campus, while Orchard runs full-time weekday schedules. If you must keep a day job, MTECH's flexible timing prevents income loss during training.
Can you afford the higher upfront cost of Orchard in exchange for a shorter program?
Orchard's accelerated format costs more up front but gets you into the workforce weeks faster. MTECH spreads a lower tuition over a longer term, easing immediate financial strain.
Is the shorter commute to MTECH's Lehi campus more important than a few weeks' difference in timeline?
MTECH's Lehi location saves daily driving time compared to traveling to Orchard's site. If traffic or gas costs matter, that convenience may outweigh a slightly longer program.
CNA Jobs in Lehi and Utah County: Salary & Outlook
Completing your CNA certification opens doors to steady employment in one of Utah's fastest-growing regions. Lehi and the broader Utah County area have seen remarkable population increases over the past decade, driving demand for healthcare workers at every level. Understanding current CNA salaries and employment trends can help you set realistic expectations as you plan your career.
Current Wage Data for Nursing Assistants
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics for May 2025, nursing assistants across the United States earn a median hourly wage of $20.321, which translates to approximately $42,700 per year. The national workforce includes nearly 1.45 million nursing assistants1, making this one of the largest healthcare support occupations in the country.
While metro-specific wage data for the Provo-Orem area is not always published separately, Utah CNAs typically earn wages that fall slightly below the national median due to the state's overall lower cost of living. Entry-level positions may start in the $15 to $17 per hour range, with experienced CNAs and those working in specialized settings often earning closer to the national median or above. Shift differentials for evening, night, and weekend work can add $1 to $3 per hour to your base pay.
Employment Outlook in Utah County
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 2 percent growth rate for nursing assistants nationally between 2024 and 2034, with approximately 211,800 job openings expected annually2 due to both growth and replacement needs. Utah County's population boom suggests local demand may outpace national averages, though specific regional projections from the Utah Department of Workforce Services were not available at the time of this writing.
Healthcare facilities in Lehi and surrounding cities continue to expand. New urgent care centers, assisted living communities, and rehabilitation facilities have opened in recent years, creating consistent hiring opportunities for certified nursing assistants.
Major Local Employers
Several healthcare organizations regularly hire CNAs in the Lehi and Utah County region:
- Intermountain Health: Operates multiple hospitals and clinics throughout Utah County, including American Fork Hospital, and frequently posts CNA openings.
- MountainStar Healthcare: Manages Timpanogos Regional Hospital in Orem and hires CNAs for acute care and surgical units.
- Beehive Homes and other assisted living facilities: Numerous senior care communities in Lehi, American Fork, and Pleasant Grove employ CNAs for daily resident care.
- Home health agencies: Companies like Harmony Home Health and similar providers offer flexible CNA positions for those who prefer working in patient homes rather than clinical settings.
What This Means for Your Career
Lehi's position within the Utah County healthcare corridor means you will likely have multiple employment options upon certification. Starting wages may feel modest, but many CNAs use this role as a stepping stone toward higher-paying positions such as licensed practical nurse or registered nurse; for detailed CNA career information, note that employers in this competitive market sometimes offer tuition assistance, sign-on bonuses, or accelerated advancement programs to attract and retain qualified CNAs.
Top-Ranked CNA Programs for Utah Students
For students in Lehi seeking nursing assistant training, the top-ranked option is Mountainland Technical College's Lehi campus, the only CNA program physically located in the city. The following ranking also highlights other strong programs across Utah that serve Lehi-area residents through flexible schedules and affordable costs.
Factors considered
- Accreditation and state approval
- Graduation and licensure pass rates
- Program cost and length
- Job placement and earnings data
- Location relevance to Lehi
Data sources
- Internal program database
- College Scorecard graduate earnings — collegescorecard.ed.gov
- NCES-IPEDS federal institutional data — nces.ed.gov
- Independent program research
Mountainland Technical College
#1Lehi, UT
Best for: Lehi residents seeking local hands-on training
Mountainland Technical College (MTECH) is the only CNA training provider located directly in Lehi, with a dedicated nursing building on its Lehi campus. Its program runs 2-4 months, costs $755 total, and is tuition-free for local high school students. MTECH reports a 91% completion rate, 77% job placement, and 100% licensure pass rate. Cohorts follow a semester-style schedule that aligns with local high school calendars.
- Complete training in as few as 2-4 months.
- Total cost of $755 includes tuition, fees, and textbooks.
- High school juniors and seniors attend tuition-free.
- 144 total hours with 24 hours of supervised clinical experience.
- Earn First Aid, CPR, and BLS certifications.
- 100% licensure exam pass rate among graduates.
- Cohort schedules match local high school A/B calendars.
- Campuses also in Provo, Payson, and Heber Valley.
Bridgerland Technical College
#2Logan, UT · $2,000/yr
Best for: Budget-conscious students in northern Utah
Bridgerland Technical College in Logan offers an affordable Nursing Assistant certificate with tuition around $372 and a program length of 1-3 months. It boasts a 94% completion rate, 76% job placement, and 97% licensure pass rate. The campus-based program includes 24 hours of clinical experience, and students can choose from flexible day or evening sections. Registration is first-come, first-served, and financial aid is available to those who qualify.
- Tuition and fees estimated at $372.
- Program length of 1-3 months with flexible scheduling.
- Includes 24 hours of clinical experience at long-term care facility.
- 97% licensure exam pass rate.
- Day and evening sections available.
- Need AHA BLS Provider CPR before starting.
- Completion rate of 94%, job placement 76%.
- Open to adults 18+ with high school diploma or equivalent.
Utah State University
#3Logan, UT · $9,000 – $25,000/yr
Best for: Students wanting university CNA credentials
Utah State University in Logan offers a Nursing Assistant Technical Certificate through its College of Technology, Design, and Technical Education. The program emphasizes a human-centered curriculum with a focus on patient quality of life, preparing students to assist RNs and LPNs in diverse settings. As a public university, USU provides access to broader campus resources and a strong alumni network, though the program cost is higher than at technical colleges. Graduates benefit from the university's overall reputation and potential for continued education in nursing.
- One-semester technical certificate program.
- Campus-based instruction with hands-on clinical components.
- Focus on patient quality-of-life care and communication.
- Prepares graduates for state CNA certification exam.
- Works in nursing homes, hospitals, and assisted living.
- Individualized advising available from health professions faculty.
- Admission packet and program details available online.
- Graduates can pursue further education like LPN or RN.
Dixie Technical College
#4Saint George, UT
Dixie Technical College in Saint George provides a high-value Nursing Assistant program with tuition and fees at just $544. The program length ranges from 6 to 18 weeks, with flexible day and evening classes and multiple start dates. It features a perfect 100% licensure pass rate, 96% completion rate, and 86% job placement rate. High school students benefit from a tuition waiver and a $150 scholarship, making it exceptionally affordable for young adults.
- Total cost of $544 includes tuition and fees.
- Program can be completed in as little as 6 weeks.
- 100% licensure pass rate among graduates.
- High school students may qualify for tuition waiver and scholarship.
- Day and evening classes with flexible start dates.
- Hands-on clinical training covering vital signs and patient care.
- Accredited by the Utah Nursing Assistant Registry.
- 86% job placement rate after completion.
Tooele Technical College
#5Tooele, UT
Tooele Technical College offers a Nursing Assistant program for $985, taking about 4 months at 6 hours per week. The program awards 3 college credits and includes classroom and clinical instruction. With no application fee and no entrance exam required, it provides an accessible entry point. The college is military-friendly and open to high school students.
- Program cost of $985 for the full certificate.
- Takes 4 months with 6 study hours per week.
- Earns 3 college credits upon completion.
- Includes both classroom instruction and clinical practice.
- No application fee and no entrance exam required.
- Military-friendly with veteran services available.
- High school students can enroll in the program.
- Flexible scheduling and multiple enrollment pathways.
Snow College
#6Ephraim, UT · $6,000/yr
Snow College in Ephraim and Richfield offers a highly affordable Nursing Assistant certificate with tuition and fees totaling just $330 plus approximately $225 for supplies and books. The one-semester program is available in fall, spring, or summer, including an accelerated 5-6 week summer option. Hybrid learning options blend online and in-person instruction. Graduates are prepared for the state exam, and the college reports a 28% projected job growth in the field.
- Tuition and fees total $330; supplies and books extra.
- One-semester certificate with fall, spring, or summer starts.
- Summer term can be completed in 5-6 weeks.
- Hybrid format combines online and in-person learning.
- Campuses in Ephraim and Richfield, Utah.
- Curriculum covers vital signs, CPR, and basic patient care.
- No entrance exam required for admission.
- Median annual salary of $29,640 reported for CNAs.
Davis Technical College
#7Kaysville, UT · $13,000/yr (net price)
Davis Technical College in Kaysville runs a fast 2-month Nursing Assistant program for adults costing $547; high school students pay only $183. The hybrid program blends in-class and remote learning with full-time and part-time schedules, including evening options. Graduates are prepared for the Utah Nursing Assistant Registry exam, and the program includes CPR certification. Applications require placement assessments and vaccination documentation.
- Completes in just 2 months with 3 credit hours.
- Adult total cost $547; high school students $183.
- Hybrid format with in-class and remote instruction.
- Full-time and part-time schedules, including evenings.
- CPR certification included in the program.
- Prepares for the Utah Nursing Assistant Registry examination.
- Open to high school juniors/seniors and adults.
- Physical requirements include lifting 50 lbs.
Utah Tech University
#8Saint George, UT · $16,000/yr (net price)
Utah Tech University in Saint George offers a Certified Nurse Assistant certificate as a 4-credit program that combines lab, classroom, and clinical experiences. The program prepares students to work in long-term care, home health, and hospital settings. As a public university, it provides access to broader academic resources, though the net price for students can be higher than at technical colleges. Graduates benefit from the university's expanding healthcare reputation.
- 4-credit certificate program.
- Blends state-of-the-art lab, classroom, and clinical training.
- Prepares students for the Utah state certification exam.
- Clinical experiences in multiple healthcare settings.
- Focuses on patient care skills and infection control.
- Military-friendly institution.
- Provides a foundation for continued education in nursing.
Southwest Technical College
#9Cedar City, UT
Southwest Technical College in Cedar City offers a Nursing Assistant program for an all-inclusive cost of $559.50, covering tuition, fees, books, and supplies. The hybrid program takes about 2 months and includes hands-on clinical practice. With a high 96% retention rate, low student-faculty ratio of 6:1, and multiple campus locations including Kane County and Beaver High School, it serves rural Utah communities well. Applicants must be at least 16 years old.
- All-inclusive cost of $559.50 with no hidden fees.
- Hybrid program combining online and clinical training.
- Duration approximately 2 months, 3 credit hours.
- Includes tuition, books, fees, and supplies.
- Open to students age 16 and older.
- Hands-on clinical experience supervised by nurses.
- Prepares for state CNA certification through UNAR.
- Multiple campus locations across southern Utah.
Frequently Asked Questions About CNA Classes in Lehi
Choosing the right CNA program raises many questions. Below, we answer the most common ones asked by students exploring CNA training in Lehi, Utah. Use these answers to guide your decision and follow up with schools for the most current details.
Costs vary by program. MTECH's CNA program is typically around $700-$900 for tuition and fees, which includes books, supplies, and background check. Orchard CNA reports similar pricing, often near $800. Additional expenses like scrubs, stethoscope, and certification exam fees may add $200. Always confirm current pricing directly with the school.
Utah requires at least 100 hours of CNA training (60 classroom + 40 clinical). Most Lehi programs run 4-8 weeks. MTECH's standard CNA course is about 7 weeks for day classes, while Orchard offers a 4-week accelerated option. After training, you schedule the state exam, which can add 1-2 weeks for testing and results.
You must complete a state-approved training program of at least 100 hours, pass a background check, and pass the Utah Nursing Assistant Registry (UNAR) exam. Certification maintenance requires 200 hours of CNA work every 2 years and renewal by your birth month. Be sure to submit fingerprints and clearance early to avoid delays.
Yes, MTECH offers evening CNA classes at its Lehi campus. The evening track typically meets two or three nights per week and runs longer than the day program, about 10-12 weeks. This schedule accommodates students balancing work or family commitments. Check MTECH's current schedule for exact days and times.
Financial aid availability depends on the school and program length. MTECH offers federal aid (Pell Grants) for its CNA program because it meets clock-hour requirements. Orchard may offer payment plans or accept workforce grants. Some students qualify for WIOA funding or scholarships through local workforce services. Always complete the FAFSA and ask each school about options.
The job outlook is strong. Lehi sits in the healthcare corridor between Salt Lake and Utah counties, with hospitals, rehab centers, and assisted living facilities continuously hiring. Utah projects 9% growth for nursing assistants through 2030, and Lehi's rapid population growth fuels demand. New graduates often find jobs quickly.
Both MTECH and Orchard maintain high state exam pass rates, typically above 85%. MTECH often reports pass rates in the low 90s, while Orchard's accelerated program boasts a 95% first-time pass rate in recent years. Actual rates fluctuate annually; ask for the latest cohort data when touring. High pass rates reflect quality instruction and hands-on clinical preparation.
