We’re continuing the conversation here on the ThriveAP blog about certifications for nurse practitioners that don’t require an additional degree. If you’re an NP working in a specialty, achieving certification or specialty training can help you distinguish yourself as a provider with a specific skill set. So far this week we’ve touched on certifications for cardiology NPs and nurse practitioners working in dermatology. Today, we’ll look at options for oncology nurse practitioners.
1. Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner (AOCNP) Certification
The AOCNP certification is the most widely recognized credential when it comes to nurse practitioners practicing in the oncology setting. NPs. must successfully complete a three-hour, 165 question multiple choice test which includes subject matter in eleven different oncology subject areas. To become certified, nurse practitioners must also have either 500 or 1,000 practice hours in an oncology setting and have completed 30 hours of oncology specific continuing education or have taken 2 credit hours in a graduate level oncology course.
2. American Society of Clinical Oncology Advanced Practitioner Certificate Programs
The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) offers three basic online learning modules for nurse practitioners interested in advancing their cancer know-how. The courses in each module are offered online making the certification convenient for working NPs. A certificate of completion is awarded at the end of each module.
3. The Ohio State University Acute Care Oncology Fellowship Program
NPs looking to advance their oncology education may with to complete a fellowship in the specialty for more robust practice experience. The Ohio State University’s year-long oncology fellowship includes a blend of clinical and didactic study covering cancer education from diagnosis to survivorship and/or end-of-life care.
4. Sylvester Oncology Nurse Practitioner Fellowship
Nurse practitioners interested in hematology and oncology may also wish to consider the fellowship program offered through the University of Miami’s Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. Over the one-year duration of the program, participating NPs complete rotations in a variety of clinical oncology settings providing a strong foundation in patient care. The program is competitive and currently accepts just one nurse practitioner each year.
5. MD Anderson Cancer Center Post Graduate Fellowship in Oncology Nursing
The renowned MD Anderson Cancer Center also offers an oncology fellowship for APRNs. Recognized as one of the top cancer centers in the nation, the facility’s program follows a robust curriculum of clinical experiences preparing NPs to care for oncology patients from prevention to end-of-life. Up to four fellowship positions are available each year.
How will you further your oncology NP education?
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