OCN vs PCCN
Oncology Certified Nurse vs Progressive Care Certified Nurse — a side-by-side comparison of exam costs, prerequisites, salary impact, CE requirements, and which certification is best for your career path.
OCN
Oncology Certified Nurse · Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC)
OCN demonstrates expertise in oncology nursing practice including cancer treatment, symptom management, and patient education. Sought by cancer centers and infusion units.
PCCN
Progressive Care Certified Nurse · American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN)
PCCN certifies nurses caring for acutely ill patients in intermediate or step-down units. Complements CCRN for nurses in progressive care settings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Attribute | OCN | PCCN |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | Oncology Certified Nurse | Progressive Care Certified Nurse |
| Issuing Body | Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC) | American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) |
| Category | Oncology | Critical Care |
| Exam Cost | $230 | $275 |
| Validity | 48 months | 36 months |
| CE Credits Required | 120 | 100 |
| Salary Impact | +8.00% | +8.00% |
| Prerequisites | Current RN license; 1 year (2,000 hours) oncology nursing experience; 10 contact hours of oncology CE within the last 3 years | Current RN license; 1,750 hours caring for acutely ill patients in the past 2 years |
| Demand Level | medium | medium |
Which should I get — OCN or PCCN?
Choose OCN if…
- • You work in Oncology settings
- • Your employer requires or prefers OCN
- • You have met the prerequisites: Current RN license; 1 year (2,000 hours) oncology nursing experience; 10 contact hours of oncology CE within the last 3 years
- • You want a ~8% salary boost
Choose PCCN if…
- • You work in Critical Care settings
- • Your employer requires or prefers PCCN
- • You have met the prerequisites: Current RN license; 1,750 hours caring for acutely ill patients in the past 2 years
- • You want a ~8% salary boost
FAQ — OCN vs PCCN
Is OCN or PCCN harder?
Both OCN and PCCN require preparation and hands-on practice. OCN covers oncology scenarios; PCCN covers critical care scenarios. Difficulty depends on your clinical background.
Can I get both OCN and PCCN?
Yes. Many healthcare professionals hold both certifications, especially in settings that overlap (e.g., ICU nurses often have both CCRN and ACLS). Each is independently issued and maintained.
Which pays more — OCN or PCCN?
OCN certification is associated with approximately a 8% salary increase; PCCN approximately 8%. See the full salary data for your specialty and state.