Top 11 Nurse Clinician Certifications

Certifications for nurse clinicians are important in the job market because they provide evidence of knowledge, expertise, and a commitment to professional development. Certifications demonstrate that a nurse clinician has the necessary skills and experience to perform their job effectively and safely. By obtaining certifications, a nurse clinician can demonstrate their commitment to staying up-to-date on best practices and current trends in healthcare, which can make them more attractive to potential employers. Additionally, certifications can help a nurse clinician stand out from other applicants and give them an edge when applying for jobs or promotions.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Nurse Clinicians and explain how they can help advance a nurse clinician's career.

What are Nurse Clinician Certifications?

Nurse clinician certification is a type of professional certification that recognizes nurses who have advanced knowledge and experience in a specific area of practice. This type of certification demonstrates that the nurse has achieved a certain level of expertise in their specialty, which can be beneficial to both patients and employers. With this certification, nurses are able to provide more specialized care and have access to new job opportunities. By obtaining nurse clinician certification, nurses can demonstrate their commitment to providing outstanding patient care and show their dedication to continuing education. In addition, employers may be more likely to hire certified nurses as they are seen as having a higher level of expertise than uncertified nurses. Furthermore, certified nurses may be eligible for higher salaries due to the added value they bring to the workplace.

Pro Tip: When pursuing nurse clinician certification, it is important to research the requirements of the board you are applying to. Each board may have different requirements for certification, such as continuing education credits and experience in specific areas. Make sure to meet all the requirements before submitting your application.

Related: What does a Nurse Clinician do?

Top 11 Nurse Clinician Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Nurse Clinicians today.

1. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)

A Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) is an advanced practice registered nurse who specializes in the administration of anesthesia and related care for patients undergoing surgical, diagnostic, or therapeutic procedures. CRNAs are responsible for assessing a patient’s condition prior to administering anesthesia and monitoring a patient’s vital signs during and after the procedure. They also provide post-operative pain management.

It typically takes between 7-9 years to become a CRNA. This includes obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, becoming a registered nurse (RN), gaining 1-2 years of experience as an RN in an acute care setting, completing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree with a specialization in Nurse Anesthesia, passing the National Certification Examination administered by the National Board of Certification & Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA), and obtaining state licensure.

The cost to become a CRNA varies depending on location, school tuition rates, and other factors. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $50,000-$200,000+ to complete all the necessary steps required to become a CRNA.

2. Certified Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)

A Certified Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) is a type of advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed a master’s degree in nursing and passed an exam to become certified. CNSs specialize in providing care for patients with complex medical conditions and chronic illnesses, as well as providing education and support to other nurses. They often work in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, home health agencies, and other healthcare settings.

The process of becoming a CNS typically takes two to three years depending on the individual's educational background. To become certified, individuals must first obtain a master's degree in nursing from an accredited college or university. This program should include coursework related to advanced practice nursing such as pharmacology, pathophysiology, health assessment, and clinical management. After completing the master’s program, individuals must then pass the national certification exam administered by either the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN).

The cost of becoming a CNS varies depending on the individual's educational background and which certification exam they choose to take. The cost of obtaining a master's degree in nursing can range from $10,000-$50,000 depending on the school and program chosen. The cost for taking the ANCC certification exam is $395 for members and $495 for non-members; while AACN charges $325 for members and $425 for non-members.

3. Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (CPNP)

A Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (CPNP) is a registered nurse with advanced training and education in the diagnosis and treatment of childhood illnesses. CPNSs provide primary care services to children from birth through adolescence, including physical examinations, immunizations, health maintenance, diagnosis and management of acute and chronic illnesses, and health promotion.

To become a CPNP, nurses must first obtain an RN license. Then they must complete a Master's degree program in nursing that is accredited by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. The program should include coursework in pediatric primary care, pharmacology, pathophysiology, physical assessment, and clinical practice.

Once the educational requirements are met, prospective CPNPs must pass a certification exam administered by either the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB) or the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). This exam covers topics such as pediatric growth and development; acute care; mental health; nutrition; family-centered care; pharmacology; professional issues; research; leadership/management; and evidence-based practice.

The cost of becoming a CPNP varies depending on the institution offering the program. Generally speaking, tuition for a Master's degree program can range from $20,000 to $50,000 or more. Additionally, there is an application fee for both PNCB and ANCC exams ($225-$395), plus any associated costs for study materials or test preparation courses.

4. Certified Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP-BC)

A Certified Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP-BC) is an advanced practice registered nurse who provides primary care to adults and geriatric patients. AGPCNPs are qualified to diagnose, treat, and manage acute and chronic illnesses, as well as provide preventive health services such as health promotion and disease prevention. They can order diagnostic tests, prescribe medications, develop treatment plans, and refer patients to other healthcare professionals when needed.

It typically takes two years of full-time study to become a Certified Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP-BC). To qualify for certification, applicants must have a master’s degree in nursing from an accredited program with a focus on adult-gerontology primary care. In addition, they must pass the national certification exam administered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).

To get certified as an AGPCNP-BC, you will need to complete the following steps:

1. Obtain a Master's degree in nursing from an accredited program with a focus on adult-gerontology primary care.

2. Pass the ANCC's national certification exam for Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioners.

3. Apply for state licensure or endorsement if required by your state of residence.

4. Become board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).

5. Maintain certification by completing continuing education requirements every five years.

The cost of becoming certified as an AGPCNP-BC varies depending on the cost of tuition for your Master's degree program and other fees associated with taking the certification exam and maintaining your certification status over time. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $5,000 - $20,000+ to become certified in this specialty area of nursing practice.

5. Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN)

Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) is a professional certification for nurses who specialize in emergency care. It is offered by the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing (BCEN). The CEN credential is designed to recognize the knowledge and skills that competent emergency nurses possess.

It takes approximately six months to prepare for the CEN exam. Candidates should review the BCEN website and study guide, as well as take practice tests and review any other materials recommended by their employer or educational institution. Additionally, candidates should attend relevant continuing education courses and seminars to ensure they are up-to-date on the latest developments in emergency nursing.

To get certified, candidates must pass an exam administered by BCEN. The exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as patient assessment, pharmacology, trauma management, medical emergencies, and more. The cost of the exam is $375 for non-members and $275 for members of BCEN.

6. Certified Ambulatory Care Nurse (CACN)

Certified Ambulatory Care Nurse (CACN) is a certification offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). This certification is designed to recognize nurses who specialize in providing care to patients in ambulatory settings, such as clinics, physician offices, and outpatient centers.

The CACN certification requires nurses to have at least two years of experience in ambulatory care nursing and complete a minimum of 30 hours of continuing education related to ambulatory care nursing within the past three years. In addition, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as patient advocacy, health promotion, disease prevention, and clinical management.

To obtain the CACN certification, nurses must first apply for eligibility with the ANCC. After being approved for eligibility, they can then register for the exam. The exam fee is $295 for members of the American Nurses Association or $345 for non-members. The exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete. Upon successful completion of the exam, nurses will be issued their CACN certification.

7. Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse (CMSRN)

A Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse (CMSRN) is a credential granted by the Medical-Surgical Nursing Certification Board (MSNCB). The CMSRN certification demonstrates that a nurse has achieved and maintained a high level of knowledge, skill, and experience in medical-surgical nursing. It is designed to recognize the expertise of experienced medical-surgical nurses who are committed to providing quality patient care.

To obtain the CMSRN certification, nurses must have an active RN license and at least two years of full-time clinical practice as an RN in medical-surgical nursing within the past three years. They must also pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as pharmacology, pathophysiology, patient safety, health promotion, and evidence-based practice.

The cost for taking the exam varies depending on where you take it. The MSNCB charges $295 for members to take the exam or $395 for nonmembers. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam at certain locations.

It typically takes about 4–6 weeks to receive your results after taking the exam. Once you have passed the exam and met all other requirements, you will receive your official CMSRN certification from MSNCB.

8. Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC)

A Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) is a type of advanced practice nurse who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders. PMHNPs provide comprehensive care to individuals, families, and communities. They are able to diagnose, treat, and manage mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance abuse disorders, and other psychiatric illnesses.

It typically takes two to three years of additional education beyond a registered nursing degree to become a PMHNP. This includes completing an accredited master’s or doctoral program in psychiatric-mental health nursing. After completing the educational requirements for certification as a PMHNP-BC, applicants must pass the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Board Certification Exam.

The cost of becoming certified as a PMHNP-BC varies depending on the type of program chosen and other associated costs such as books and materials. The ANCC exam fee is $395 for members of the American Nurses Association (ANA) and $495 for nonmembers. Additionally, there may be fees associated with obtaining clinical experience hours required for certification eligibility.

9. Certified Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Nurse (CNN)

A Certified Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Nurse (CNN) is a registered nurse who has specialized training and experience in caring for critically ill newborns. The CNN certification is awarded by the National Certification Corporation (NCC) and requires that the nurse have at least two years of full-time work experience in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

It typically takes about six months to complete all of the requirements for the CNN certification, including completing an approved NCC course, passing a comprehensive exam, and providing proof of current licensure. The NCC also requires that nurses maintain their certification by completing continuing education courses every five years.

To get certified as a CNN, nurses must first meet the eligibility requirements set forth by the NCC. This includes having an active RN license from any state or territory within the United States, having completed at least two years of full-time work experience in a NICU setting, and having completed an approved NCC course. After meeting these requirements, nurses can register for the exam with the NCC and pay the associated fee.

The cost to become certified as a CNN varies depending on where you take your exam and if you are already an NCC member. Generally speaking, it costs between $200-$400 to take the exam plus any additional fees associated with taking it at a testing center outside of your home state.

10. Certified Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nursing Certification (CWOCN)

Certified Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nursing Certification (CWOCN) is a certification program for nurses who specialize in the care of patients with wounds, ostomies, and continence issues. It is offered by the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society (WOCN). The certification recognizes nurses who have met the highest standards of practice in the specialty.

The CWOCN certification process involves completing an application, passing a written examination, and meeting other requirements as outlined by the WOCN. The application process typically takes 4-6 weeks to complete. The written exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 3 hours. To be eligible to take the exam, applicants must have a current nursing license and at least two years of experience in wound, ostomy or continence nursing.

The cost to apply for CWOCN certification varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of the WOCN. For members, it costs $215; for non-members it costs $265. Additionally, there is a $200 fee for taking the exam. Once certified, there is an annual renewal fee of $125 for members and $175 for non-members.

Overall, obtaining CWOCN certification requires dedication and hard work but can provide nurses with additional recognition and job opportunities in their field of specialty.

11. Advanced Oncology Certified Nursing Executive (AOCNE).

Advanced Oncology Certified Nursing Executive (AOCNE) is an advanced certification for nurses who specialize in oncology nursing. It is offered by the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC) and requires specialized knowledge and skills in order to provide quality care to patients with cancer.

To become AOCNE certified, nurses must first be licensed as a Registered Nurse and have at least two years of experience working in an oncology setting. In addition, they must complete a minimum of 30 hours of continuing education related to oncology nursing within the last two years. The ONCC also requires that applicants pass a comprehensive exam before they can be certified.

The AOCNE exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as cancer treatment, symptom management, patient education, and professional practice standards. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and costs $400 for members of the ONCC or $450 for non-members. After passing the exam, nurses will receive their AOCNE certification which is valid for five years.

In order to maintain their certification, nurses must complete 45 contact hours of continuing education related to oncology nursing every three years. They must also pay an annual renewal fee of $95 for members or $125 for non-members.

Do You Really Need a Nurse Clinician Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual and their career goals. For some, a nurse clinician certificate may be essential in order to advance their career, while for others it may not be necessary.

For those who want to pursue a career as a nurse clinician, obtaining a certificate is an important step in the process. Nurse clinicians are responsible for providing advanced nursing care and they must have specialized knowledge and skills in order to do so effectively. The certificate provides evidence that an individual has the required knowledge and skills to practice as a nurse clinician. It also demonstrates their commitment to continuing education and professional development.

On the other hand, if you are already working as a nurse and just want to broaden your scope of practice or specialize in certain areas, then you may not need a certificate. However, if you do decide that you would like to pursue further education or become certified in something specific such as gerontology or pediatrics, then obtaining a certificate could be beneficial.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a nurse clinician certificate depends on your individual circumstances and career goals. If you are serious about advancing your career as a nurse clinician, then obtaining a certificate can provide valuable recognition of your expertise and help open doors for new opportunities.

Related: Nurse Clinician Resume Examples

FAQs About Nurse Clinician Certifications

1. What is a Nurse Clinician Certification?

Answer: A Nurse Clinician Certification is a voluntary credential that demonstrates advanced knowledge and skills in a specialized area of nursing practice. It is awarded to nurses who have met certain criteria, such as completing an accredited nurse practitioner program and passing an exam.

2. How long does it take to get certified as a Nurse Clinician?

Answer: The amount of time required to become certified as a Nurse Clinician varies depending on the specific program and requirements set forth by the certifying body. Generally, it can take up to three years or more to complete all necessary coursework and obtain the certification.

3. Are there any prerequisites for becoming a Certified Nurse Clinician?

Answer: Yes, there are usually some educational prerequisites for becoming a Certified Nurse Clinician. These may include an accredited nursing degree, relevant work experience, and/or successful completion of an approved nurse practitioner program.

4. What are the benefits of getting certified as a Nurse Clinician?

Answer: Becoming certified as a Nurse Clinician can provide many benefits, including increased job opportunities, higher salaries, greater professional credibility and recognition, enhanced patient care capabilities, and improved career prospects in other areas of healthcare.

5. Where can I find information about obtaining my Nurse Clinician Certification?

Answer: You can find information about obtaining your certification from various organizations that offer certifications for nurse practitioners such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the National Board of Nursing Specialties (NBNS). Additionally, you should check with your state board of nursing or healthcare organization for additional resources regarding certification requirements in your area.