Opening an Allied Health School in California
From CNA programs to dental assisting and phlebotomy, we help healthcare training schools navigate the approval process and open with confidence.
A Growing Industry With Real Demand
~12M
Allied Health Workers in the U.S.
60%+
Of the U.S. Healthcare Workforce
1.9M
Healthcare Jobs Openings Annually
Sources: ASAHP, BLS
The Approval Process
The approvals required to open a school in California depend on your program type and how your school is structured. Most allied health schools require approval from the BPPE (Bureau of Private Postsecondary Education) and a secondary state agency.
01 · Primary
BPPE Approval
The BPPE oversees most non-exempt private postsecondary institutions in California, including allied health schools. Unless your school qualifies for exemption, you must receive BPPE approval before enrolling students or operating legally.
02 · Secondary
Secondary Agency Approval
In addition to the BPPE, many allied health programs must also answer to a secondary state agency. The BPPE will issue a Conditional Approval that does not convert to full approval until your secondary agency license is secured.
Which Secondary Agency Does Your Program Answer To?
CDPH
California Department of Public Health
The CDPH is California’s primary oversight body for healthcare training programs. It establishes curriculum standards and clinical requirements. Students complete CDPH-approved programs to qualify for state certification or licensure.
Programs: CNA, Phlebotomy, Medical Assistant, and Home Health Aide
DBC
Dental Board of California
The DBC approves dental educational programs and courses required for practice, licensure, and continuing education in California. Dental assistants can qualify for licensure as an RDA by graduating from a Board-approved educational program.
Programs: RDA, RDAEF
DHBC
Dental Hygiene Board of California
The DHBC oversees the licensure and regulation of dental hygienists in California, including oversight of dental hygiene educational programs and the standards graduates must meet for state licensure.
Programs: RDH
BVNPT
Board of Vocational Nursing & Psychiatric Technicians
The BVNPT serves as the regulatory body for all vocational nursing and psychiatric technician schools in California. Graduates qualify to take the National Council Licensing Examination for Practical and Vocational Nursing (NCLEX-PN) for state licensure.
Programs: LVN, Psychiatric Tech, IV Therapy & Blood Withdrawal
EMSA
Emergency Medical Services Authority
The EMSA establishes training standards for emergency medical services personnel in California. Programs must receive local EMSA approval before offering courses that lead to EMS certification or licensure.
Programs: EMT, AEMT, Paramedic
CAB
California Acupuncture Board
The CAB oversees and regulates the practice of acupuncture in California, including approving acupuncture training programs. Graduates qualify to take the California Acupuncture Licensing Examination (CALE) for state licensure.
Programs: Acupuncture
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an allied health school?
An allied health school is a postsecondary institution that trains students for healthcare careers that support physicians and nurses. Common programs include CNA, phlebotomy, medical assisting, dental assisting, vocational nursing, and EMT training.
Do I need BPPE approval to open an allied health school in California?
Most allied health schools require BPPE approval before enrolling students. Some schools may qualify for exemption depending on their program structure and tuition. A free consultation with our team can help you determine what applies to your situation.
What is a secondary agency approval?
A secondary agency approval is required when your program is regulated by a state agency in addition to the BPPE. The specific agency depends on your program type. Visit our Secondary Agency Approvals page to learn more.
How long does it take to get approved to open an allied health school?
We typically prepare applications within one month. After submission, BPPE review timelines can take up to a year or more due to application backlog. Secondary agency timelines vary by agency.
Can School Builder Plus help with both BPPE and secondary agency applications?
Yes. We help you identify which approvals apply to your program, prepare both applications, and guide you through each review process so nothing falls through the cracks.
Do I need to be a healthcare professional to open an allied health school?
Not necessarily. Requirements vary by program type and governing agency. Some programs require owners or directors to hold specific credentials while others do not. We can help you understand what applies to your specific program during your free consultation.