All ONCC examination-based programs are accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). However, three ONCC credentials – Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse (AOCN), Advanced Oncology Certified Clinical Nurse Specialist (AOCNS), and Certified Pediatric Oncology Nurse (CPON) – no longer offer an examination. The information below answers frequent questions about credentials for examinations that have been retired.

Is ONCC eliminating AOCN®, AOCNS®, and CPON® certification?

ONCC is not discontinuing the AOCN®, AOCNS®, or CPON® certification. Nurses who are currently AOCN®, AOCNS®, or CPON®-certified may continue to renew these certifications as long as the individual meets the renewal requirements.

Do I need to earn a different certification?

ONCC is not requiring you to earn a different certification. You may continue to renew your current credential if you meet the renewal requirements.

Can I apply for Emeritus status if I am certified as an AOCN®, AOCNS®, or CPON®?

Yes. Emeritus status is available for all ONCC certifications. Emeritus status may only be obtained once you are no longer practicing nursing. 

Accreditation-related

Is ONCC discontinuing accreditation of AOCN®, AOCNS®, and CPON® certification?

The AOCN®, AOCNS®, and CPON® certifications were accredited as soon as the programs became eligible and maintained continuous accreditation for as long as possible. However, accreditation standards changed. Because these programs do not offer an examination based on a current job task analysis or role delineation study of the knowledge represented by the credential, they are no longer eligible for accreditation.

Who previously accredited the AOCN®, AOCNS®, and CPON® certifications?

The AOCN®, AOCNS®, and CPON® certifications were previously accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) and/or the Accreditation Board for Specialty Nursing Certification (ABSNC). These are independent organizations that set standards for certification programs.

Magnet Recognition Program® and related

How does accreditation affect my hospital’s Magnet status?

According to information published by the ANCC Magnet Program, certifications that are not accredited will not be included in Magnet’s Demographic Data Collection Tool beginning January 1, 2024. However, like the Commission on Cancer (CoC), Magnet does recognize certifications from "retired" programs that no longer offer an exam and thus are not accredited IF the program was accredited at the time the certification was earned and consistently maintained per program renewal requirements. The AOCN, AOCNS, and CPON certifications fall into this category and were accredited at the time all those who hold these credentials would have attained certification. 

Why did Magnet decide to only recognize accredited certifications?

Please see the information published by the ANCC Magnet Program regarding the rationale for the decision to only include currently accredited certifications and those from programs that were accredited at the time the of certification.  Nurses should contact Magnet staff directly with questions about the impact of this change on their organization’s Magnet status.

State Licensure-related

Will my state still recognize my AOCN® or AOCNS® certification for advanced practice licensure?

Each state board of nursing determines the licensure requirements for nurses in its state. To ensure you receive an accurate answer, it is always best to consult your state board of nursing about any questions related to your nursing license.

Note: Magnet Recognition Program® is a registered trademark of the American Nurses Credentialing Center.