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Accreditation
Where your career in public relations takes you is based on individual drive, determination and diligence. All seasoned practitioners should consider earning the Accredited in Public Relations (APR) designation to prove you successfully have demonstrated competency in the knowledge, skills and abilities required to practice public relations effectively in today's business arena.
What is APR?
APR is a mark of distinction for public relations professionals who demonstrate their commitment to the profession and to its ethical practice, and who are selected based on broad knowledge, strategic perspective and sound professional judgment.
Who administers the Accreditation program?
The Accreditation program is administered by the Universal Accreditation Board (UAB), a consortium of nine leading public relations and communications organizations, including PRSA.
Who can pursue the APR?
Any PRSA member in good standing can take on the challenge of earning Accreditation. However, it is recommended that candidates have at least five years' experience in the full-time practice or teaching of public relations have earned either a bachelor's degree in a communication-specific field (e.g., public relations, journalism, mass communication), or have equivalent work experience. This experience includes public relations principles, public relations writing, public relations campaigns, research, ethics and law and internship (practical experience under supervision).
What steps are involved?
- You must complete an application that lets the UAB gauge your full-time public relations experience.
- Once your application is approved, you must schedule a Readiness Review presentation, which is a face-to-face review by three APRs to determine whether you have a grasp of the knowledge, skills and abilities required to pass the comprehensive examination.
- Prior to the Readiness Review presentation, you must complete a Readiness Review Questionnaire that addresses your organization and position in public relations; overall experience; and assessment of readiness to pass the computer-based written examination.
- Successfully pass a comprehensive examination that is administered at numerous Prometric Testing Centers around the nation.
What is the cost?
The cost is $385. PRSA members receive a rebate of $110 upon completion of the computer-based examination.
When should I start the process?
It's best to begin seeking Accreditation when you can commit the time, energy and resources to completing the entire process.
How long does the process take?
The length of time varies based on the individual and the number of applicants in your area. However, once your application is approved, you have one year to complete the Readiness Review and take the computer-based examination.
What's the computer-based examination process like?
The APR examination is computer-based and administered at Prometric Testing Centers throughout the United States. There are Prometric centers in most major cities. You'll have 3 hours and 45 minutes to complete the examination. This time includes a 10-15 minute break. A few weeks after the examination, you'll receive notification on your results.
"Test drive" the computer-based examination
You can experience the look and feel of the examination through the online demonstration, developed by the U.A.B. All candidates are encouraged to incorporate the online demo as part of his/her preparation for the actual examination. It only takes a few minutes and can be a valuable experience.
What happens if I fail?
You can reschedule the examination at any time, providing you notify the UAB of your intent, in writing. The fee for a retake is $200, providing you retake the exam within six months. No rebates apply for retakes.
How long does the APR last?
The APR designation is "good for life," providing the individual remains a current member of a UAB participating organization and completes maintenance requirements every three years.
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