The FNP-BC certification, or Family Nurse Practitioner - Board Certified certification, is awarded by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and qualifies individuals to provide medical care. It is one of two FNP certifications, the other being the FNP-C (Family Nurse Practitioner - Certified) certification, which is awarded by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP). While both certifications allow individuals to practice as FNPs, the FNP-BC is more focused on research and theoretical aspects of nursing, making it preferred for those interested in academia, while the FNP-C is more focused on clinical aspects and is often chosen by those who want to actively practice medicine.