CBCN vs OCN: Which Breast/Oncology Certification Is Right for You?
Comparing the Certified Breast Care Nurse and Oncology Certified Nurse Credentials
The CBCN (Certified Breast Care Nurse) and OCN (Oncology Certified Nurse) are both ONCC certifications, but they focus on different aspects of cancer care.
What Is the CBCN?
The CBCN validates specialized knowledge in breast care nursing — from screening and diagnosis through treatment, survivorship, and palliative care for breast cancer patients.
- •Certifying Body: ONCC (Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation)
- •Questions: 165 (125 scored + 40 pretest)
- •Time Limit: 3 hours
- •Cost: $300 ONS/APHON member / $420 non-member
- •DoubleTake: $100 for one free retake
What Is the OCN?
The OCN validates knowledge in adult oncology nursing across all cancer types. It covers the full spectrum of cancer care including solid tumors, hematologic malignancies, treatment modalities, and survivorship.
- •Certifying Body: ONCC
- •Questions: 165 (125 scored + 40 pretest)
- •Time Limit: 3 hours
- •Cost: $300 ONS member / $420 non-member
Key Differences
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I get the CBCN or OCN first?
If you work specifically in breast care, the CBCN is the logical choice. If you work in general oncology, start with the OCN. Many nurses eventually hold both.
Is the CBCN exam harder than the OCN?
Both have the same format (165 questions, 3 hours). The CBCN goes deeper into breast-specific content while the OCN covers all cancer types. Difficulty depends on your clinical background.
How often do I need to renew the CBCN?
CBCN certification is valid for 4 years. Renewal requires either re-examination or ONCC-ILNA (Individual Learning Needs Assessment) points.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CBCN exam?
The CBCN is a standardized exam. For a comprehensive study guide with practice questions and full-length exams, see our CBCN Study Guide.
How should I prepare for the CBCN?
Start with a structured study plan, use official exam blueprints, and practice with realistic exam questions. Our CBCN Study Guide covers the complete exam content with detailed rationales.
Where can I find CBCN practice questions?
Our CBCN Study Guide includes full-length practice exams with detailed answer rationales covering every content area on the actual exam.
Related Resources
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Our CBCN Study Guide covers every content area with practice questions and detailed answer rationales.