Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation

The Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC) is a nonprofit organization established to develop, administer, and evaluate programs for certification in oncology nursing. Incorporated in 1984, ONCC is governed by a Board of Directors and is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies.

Mission and Vision

ONCC's mission is to promote health and safety by validating competence and ensuring lifelong learning in oncology nursing and related specialties. Its vision is that oncology care across the continuum is provided by oncology certified professionals.

Certification Programs

ONCC offers eight credential programs for nurses in oncology and related specialties:

• Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN): A basic-level certification focusing on adult oncology.
• Certified Pediatric Hematology Oncology Nurse (CPHON): Basic-level certification in pediatric hematology oncology.
• Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner (AOCNP): Role-specific, advanced-level certification for nurse practitioners in adult oncology.
• Advanced Oncology Certified Clinical Nurse Specialist (AOCNS): Role-specific, advanced-level certification for clinical nurse specialists in adult oncology.
• Certified Breast Care Nurse (CBCN): Specialty certification focused on breast care.
• Blood and Marrow Transplant Certified Nurse (BMTCN): Specialty certification in blood and marrow transplantation nursing.
• Certified Pediatric Oncology Nurse (CPON): Basic-level certification in pediatric oncology (available for renewal only).
• Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse (AOCN): Advanced-level certification focusing on adult oncology (available for renewal only).

Eligibility and Testing

All candidates must hold a current, active, unencumbered RN license. Each certification has specific eligibility criteria regarding education and experience. Examinations are comprehensive multiple-choice tests offered at over 300 computer-based testing centers in North America and selected international sites.

Renewal Process

Certifications are valid for four years. Renewal requires meeting two of three components: practice hours, professional development activities, and successful retesting. Three renewal options are available based on these components.

Number of Certified Nurses

As of early 2025, ONCC had over 41,000 certified nurses. This includes more than 30,000 as OCN and over 3,300 as CPHON, among others.

Values and DEI Commitment

ONCC values integrity, innovation, advocacy, excellence, and agility. It is committed to supporting and advancing oncology nurses by promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and connection in delivering care to diverse patient populations.

[1] https://www.oncc.org/sites/default/files/2023-04/ONCC%20Fact%20Sheet.pdf [2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oncology_Nursing_Certification_Corporation [3] https://www.oncc.org/about-oncc [4] https://www.credly.com/org/oncology-nursing-certification-corporation [5] https://www.oncc.org/oncology-certified-nurse-ocn