FNCB offers two certification levels that align with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) educational framework. Understanding which pathway is right for you is your first important decision.
Certification Comparison
| Criteria | GFN-C® | AFN-C® |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | Generalist Forensic Nurse – Certified | Advanced Forensic Nurse – Certified |
| AACN Level | Level 1 | Level 2 |
| Education | Diploma, Associate Degree, or Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing | MSN or DNP with physiology, pharmacology, and advanced health assessment with differential diagnosis |
| License | Unencumbered RN license | Unencumbered advanced practice license |
| Exam Content | Generalist-level questions across three pillars | Includes generalist content PLUS advanced practice expectations |
❓ “I’ve practiced as a forensic nurse for many years. Why can’t I take the AFN-C?”
Years of experience alone don’t determine which exam you take. The AACN defines educational levels based on accredited nursing school preparation, not years in practice.
The GFN-C validates the expertise of forensic nurses with Level 1 education. The AFN-C is specifically designed for those with graduate-level preparation that includes advanced assessment and differential diagnosis skills.