AOCNS - Advanced Oncology Certified Clinical Nurse Specialist

Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS) are nurses with additional graduate-level training to manage clients with more autonomy than the RN scope of practice. The CNS is employed in hospital and clinic settings and is also involved in policy, research, and the portion of evidence-based practice.

The Advanced Oncology Certified Clinical Nurse Specialist (AOCNS) certification is relevant for nurses who are graduates of a CNS program and are working with adult oncology clients. The AOCNS certification is offered only for renewal as of March 2022 by the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC).

The AOCNS certification is valid for four years. 

To renew the certification, the nurse must fulfill the following items:

• Current AOCNS certification.

• Current, unencumbered RN licensure in the US, its territories, or Canada at the time of application.

• A minimum of 1,000 hours of practice in roles of the clinical nurse specialist in adult oncology within the four years (48 months) prior to application.

• Completion of 50 Professional Development Points in adult oncology.

The cost to renew the AOCNS certification is dependent on application deadlines and professional organization membership.

Renewal Fees

Option 1: Practice hours + Professional Development (Points)

• Applying before September 15, 2023 - $240 for ONS/APHON members and $360 for non-members

• Applying by October 15, 2023 (Final Deadline) - $340 for ONS/APHON members and $460 for non-members

The ONCC offers resources for recertification, including:

• Point Categories

• Continuing Education Resources

The nurse seeking additional verification of skills in the field of oncology nursing may also observe the following certifications offered by the ONCC:

• Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN): requires nursing practice working with the adult oncology population.

• Certified Pediatric Oncology Nurse (CPON): requires nursing experience in pediatric oncology care.