Wound Care University offers advanced wound care education courses designed to begin the education and experience necessary to become a wound care clinician eligible to sit for the National Board Certification Examination.
The organizations that offer credentials are the Wound Care Certification (WCC) through the National Alliance of Wound Care and Ostomy or Certified Wound Care Associate CWCA, Certified Wound Specialist (CWS) through The American Board of Wound Management.

Certification FAQ

Home Page 2020

– Wound Care Certification Prep Course

• 22 Hours with Practice Exam

– Introduction to Hyperbaric Medicine (LIVE)

• 40 Hours with Exam Approved by UHMS and NBDHMT
• Qualifies for the Certified Hyperbaric Tech – CHT or Certified Hyperbaric Nurse – CHRN

– Introduction to Hyperbaric Medicine (ON-DEMAND)

• 40 Hours with Exam Approved by ACHM
• Qualifies for the Certified Hyperbaric Tech – CHT or Certified Hyperbaric Nurse – CHRN

– Wound Prevention Certification Prep Course

• 14 Hours with Practice Exam
• Wound Care University has been reviewed by the National Alliance of Wound Care & Ostomy (NAWCO) Certification Committee and meets the eligibility requirements for the Wound Care Certified (WCC®) and Wound Prevention Certified (WPC®) examination.

– How do I access my online course modules?

Once you create your account you simply log-in and the courses will be available for on-demand access. For the live zoom courses the links to zoom will be available under your login and the presentations will be available to view.

-How do I access the online modules after I have completed the online course?

Your online access to modules will be available for 90 days post purchase. You login will be available indefinitely to ensure that you are able to print your certificates at any time.

Remote, Online and On-Demand:

The Wound Care course is offered 3 times per year live and in person, it is offered 24/7 on demand.

The Introductory Course to Hyperbaric Medicine is offered live virtually every month. This class has the option to come in person as well.

The Wound Prevention Certification Prep Course and Wound Care 101 are offered on-demand.

Yes.

WOUND CARE UNIVERSITY’S WOUND CARE PREP COURSE HAS BEEN REVIEWED BY THE NATIONAL ALLIANCE OF WOUND CARE & OSTOMY (NAWCO) CERTIFICATION COMMITTEE AND MEETS THE ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR THE WOUND CARE CERTIFIED (WCC®) EXAMINATION.

Yes. Once the online requirements are completed, you will receive a certificate of completion with the associated CNE/CME

Yes, know your certifying bodies requirements for CNE/CME in your location

Immediately upon completion, you are able to review the correct answers as well.

You can re-test, if you do not pass you will have access to the content to continue to study for the next exam

Please contact us with any questions regarding what certification or course may be right for you. Contact us today!

Due to the nature of courses and material access, we do not offer refunds.

WCC 85%
CWCA 64%
CWS 60%
CWSP 80%

What is the OMS credential?

OMS (Ostomy Management Specialist) is a NAWCO certification that recognizes clinicians with demonstrated knowledge and competence in ostomy management. The credential is valid for five years.

Who is eligible to apply?

Licensed healthcare professionals with an active, unrestricted license (examples: RN, LPN/LVN, NP, PA, MD/DO, PT, OT, DPM, etc.) and at least the equivalent of one year full-time clinical practice are eligible. Check the Candidate Handbook for exact license categories and any alternative experience pathways.

What documentation is required with the application?

Applicants must submit a completed online application, a copy of their current, unrestricted professional license, and any other requested documentation (e.g., proof of course completion, continuing education, or experience) as specified by NAWCO. Incomplete applications will not be processed.

Is completing an ostomy training course required?

NAWCO recognizes approved ostomy training courses that prepare candidates for the exam. Some applicants qualify by work experience alone; others choose to take an approved course to meet eligibility and preparation needs. Refer to the Candidate Handbook for details about acceptable courses and minimum education hours.

How do I apply and what are the fees?

Apply online via the NAWCO website. The Candidate Handbook lists the application/exam fee (verify the latest fee schedule in the handbook). Additional nonrefundable processing fees may apply for certain transactions—confirm amounts on the application page.

When and where is the exam given?

The OMS exam is computer-based and is offered at Prometric testing centers across the U.S. and internationally. NAWCO may also provide testing at some live course locations under specified conditions—confirm availability when you register.

What is the exam format and passing score?

The exam content and format are described in the Candidate Examination Handbook (content outline, number of items, time limits, and exam policies). Check the Candidate Handbook for the current passing score and exam blueprint.

What if I don’t pass the exam? Can I retake it?

Yes. Candidates may retake the exam; a re-examination fee is required for each attempt (refer to the Candidate Handbook for the current retest fee). NAWCO policies set limits on the number of consecutive attempts and provide instructions for re-application—consult the handbook for details.

How long is the OMS credential valid and how do I recertify?

OMS certification is typically awarded for five (5) years. Recertification options include passing the current exam again, completing an approved ostomy management course that meets NAWCO criteria, or documenting the required continuing education/contact hours. See the OMS Recertification Handbook for pathways, required CE amounts, and submission procedures.

Are continuing education (CE) requirements specified for recertification?

Yes. NAWCO requires a defined number of CE/contact hours for recertification, and a minimum portion must be ostomy-related. The OMS Recertification Handbook describes the exact CE breakdown, acceptable activities, documentation, and deadlines.

How will I schedule my exam after application approval?

After NAWCO approves your application, you will receive authorization information to schedule your exam at a Prometric center (or at an approved course site, if applicable). Follow the scheduling instructions in your eligibility notice. Prometric handles seat reservations and test-center policies.

Where can I find the official candidate handbook and exam blueprint?

Download the OMS Candidate Examination Handbook and the OMS Recertification Handbook from the NAWCO website—these are the authoritative sources for eligibility, content outline, policies, fees, and testing procedures. Read them thoroughly before applying or scheduling.

Preparation tips and recommended resources

Review the Candidate Handbook’s content outline and focus study on those domains. Take an NAWCO-approved ostomy management course or an accredited review program that aligns with the exam blueprint. Use practice questions, join study groups, and consult WOC literature and guidelines. Ensure your clinical experience includes ostomy patient care and documentation to reinforce practical skills.

Who do I contact for questions or problems with my application or exam?

Contact NAWCO’s certification office (phone and address are on the NAWCO website and in the Candidate Handbook). For scheduling and test-center issues, contact Prometric. Always include your NAWCO candidate ID or application number when you call.

Is there a public directory of OMS certificants?

NAWCO maintains a directory of certificants as part of its credentialing transparency. The Candidate Application includes consent for directory listing—review that section on the application form.

Final note

This FAQ covers the most frequently asked items but does not replace the Candidate Examination Handbook. Before applying or scheduling, download and read the OMS Candidate Handbook and OMS Recertification Handbook from NAWCO for the most current, detailed policies and fee schedules.