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PRSA Buffalo/Niagara - Accreditation (APR)
The Universal Accreditation Program is a voluntary certification process for PR professionals that recognizes the knowledge and experience of outstanding practitioners. When successfully completed, practitioners may use the designation APR (Accredited in Public Relations) after their names.
The APR after your name tells your peers, your colleagues, your clients and your employer that you truly understand the public relations profession. It demonstrates that you have knowledge, character and experience in the public relations field. It also demonstrates that you care about your own profession and that you are dedicated to enhancing your own personal abilities.
Eligibility
You are eligible to take the APR exam if you:
- Are a PRSA member (it doesn't matter how long you have been a member) or a member of one of the other participating organizations
- Have at least five years (or the equivalent) of paid, full-time experience in the professional practice or teaching of public relations
About the Exam
The APR exam consists of a Readiness Review and a multiple-choice test. The exam is designed to assess a variety of areas of expertise, including research, planning, implementing and evaluating programs, business literacy, media relations and history of current issues public relations.
How to Register for the Exam
Candidates must first apply for the exam and be accepted as a candidate. Applications can be obtained through our Accreditation Committee. A nonrefundable registration fee must accompany the application; that fee is $275 for PRSA members. Once your application has been accepted, you will be eligible to take the exam. Applications for the exam are valid for 18 months.
Preparation
Each spring, a six-week review course is offered. The course is open to all candidates who wish to take the exam within the next few months, as well as to those members who just want to broaden or refresh their knowledge of the profession. The review course is free. Participants will receive study materials, but may be asked to purchase or borrow other recommended texts.
After the Exam
Candidates are mailed the results of the exam approximately four to eight weeks after taking it. Successful candidates may immediately begin using the APR designation. Accreditation is good for life, as long as you remain a member of PRSA or one of the other participating organizations. In addition, every three years accredited members must submit proof of continuing education, professionalism, and service as part of the Maintenance of Accreditation program.
For More Information
To request information about the APR process, or to obtain an application, contact our Accreditation Committee Chair, Julie Marranca, APR.
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