CENP - Certified Executive in Nursing Practice

  • Cost: $325-$450
  • Renews every 3 years

COURSE FORMAT

Online
In Person

About

The Certified Executive in Nursing Practice (CENP) certification is a professional credential for nurse leaders at the executive level. Administered by the American Organization for Nursing Leadership (AONL), this certification signifies advanced expertise in nursing leadership and administration. The CENP certification is designed for nurse executives who are responsible for strategic planning, organizational management, financial stewardship, and leading large segments of healthcare organizations.

Completion Time: 3.5 hours

Cost: $325 for AONL members, $450 for non-members

Course Format

Exam Format

- The CENP exam comprises 175 multiple-choice questions (150 scored, 25 unscored) that assess competencies in areas such as leadership, communication, business skills, professionalism, healthcare knowledge, and environmental management.

- The exam evaluates the ability to effectively lead nursing practices and manage resources in healthcare organizations.

- A passing score is achieved when you answer 108 scored items correctly.

In Person

Registration involves an application process, including meeting eligibility criteria such as a current RN license, a master’s degree (or higher), and executive-level nursing leadership experience, and paying the examination fee.

The exam is conducted at designated testing centers, adhering to specific protocols.

Online

Depending on AONL policies, there may be options for taking the CENP exam online. Candidates should verify current exam options through the AONL website.

Certification

Eligibility criteria include an RN license, a graduate degree, and executive nursing leadership experience.

The application process involves submitting documentation of educational qualifications and professional experience.

If unsuccessful on the exam, candidates can reapply following AONL’s reexamination policies.

Renewal

CENP certification must be renewed every 3 years.

Renewal involves completing continuing education credits in nursing leadership and administration, along with a recertification fee.

Continuing Education

Continuing education requirements typically include specific hours of education related to nursing leadership and healthcare management.

Detailed records of these activities must be maintained and submitted for the recertification process.

For the most accurate and comprehensive information regarding Certified Executive in Nursing Practice certification, including application procedures, exam preparation resources, and renewal requirements, it is recommended to consult the American Organization for Nursing Leadership (AONL) website.

Other Resources

Study materials may include AONL’s review courses, practice exams, textbooks on nursing leadership and administration, and professional journals.

Additional resources might include leadership workshops, conferences, and mentoring programs.

Related Certifications

A current, active RN license and a master's degree in nursing or a related field are typical prerequisites.

Executives with significant nursing leadership experience may also be eligible.

After obtaining CENP certification, nurse leaders may pursue additional leadership or healthcare administration certifications.

The AONL also offers the Certified Nurse Manager and Leader (CNML).

Other related certifications include:

  • Nurse Executive Certification (NE-BC)

  • Nursing Professional Development Certification (NPD-BC)

  • Certified Professional in Health Care Risk Management (CPHRM)

  • Director of Nursing Services–Certified (DNS-CT)

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Frequently asked questions

Can I earn a Certified Executive in Nursing Practice (CENP) online?

Yes you can earn a Certified Executive in Nursing Practice (CENP) online.

What organization offers the Certified Executive in Nursing Practice (CENP)?

The American Organization for Nursing Leadership (AONL) offers the Certified Executive in Nursing Practice (CENP).

What other certifications does the American Organization for Nursing Leadership (AONL) offer besides the Certified Executive in Nursing Practice (CENP)?

The American Organization for Nursing Leadership (AONL) also offers the Certified Nurse Manager and Leader (CNML).

Who may benefit from earning the Certified Executive in Nursing Practice (CENP) certification?

Nurse executives who help develop policies and procedures to improve patient care outcomes, serve as patient care advocates and maintain a level of financial responsibility may benefit from earning the Certified Executive in Nursing Practice (CENP) certification.

How often do I need to renew my Certified Executive in Nursing Practice (CENP) certification?

You must renew your Certified Executive in Nursing Practice (CENP) certification every three years.

What are the eligibility requirements for the Certified Executive in Nursing Practice (CENP) certification?

The eligibility requirements for the Certified Executive in Nursing Practice (CENP) certification include:

  • Holding a current RN license

  • Having a bachelor's degree or higher in nursing

  • Having experience as nurse manager, supervisor, director or assistant director full-time for 24 months (or equivalent) in the last 5 years, OR

  • Having had a faculty position teaching nursing administration in a graduate program OR

  • Having held a position in nursing management or executive consultation position full-time for 24 months (or equivalent) in the last 5 years

  • Having completed 30 continuing education credits in nursing administration within the last 3 years (this doesn't apply to those who hold a master's degree in nursing administration)