ACCREDITATION IN PUBLIC RELATIONS (APR)
The Accredited in Public Relations (APR) credential is valuable to those practitioners who earn it; to the agencies, clients and organizations they represent; and, perhaps most importantly, to the public relations profession itself.
RECOGNIZED STANDARD
Established in 1964, the Accreditation Program is the profession's only national post-graduate certification program. It measures a public relations practitioner's fundamental knowledge of communications theory and its application; establishes advanced capabilities in research, strategic planning, implementation and evaluation; and demonstrates a commitment to professional excellence and ethical conduct. The skills acquired through the process are applicable to any industry or practice area. Currently, more than 5,000 professionals from the agency, corporate, association and education fields hold the APR mark. Granting of APR is overseen by the Universal Accreditation Board.
PROMOTES LIFELONG LEARNING
All APRs are required to complete continuing education programs, pursue volunteer work or pursue other professional development activities to keep their skills sharp and their Accredited status active.
CAREER ENHANCEMENT
Unlike other professional certifications, such as CPA, Accreditation in Public Relations is a voluntary demonstration of competency; as such, it reflects a strong commitment to the profession. Earning Accreditation also provides a distinction that can set individuals apart and open doors to career advancement and higher compensation.
CHAPTER SUPPORT
Ready to get started? Resources are available on the National PRSA site and the North Florida chapter offers scholarships, a mentoring program and study sessions for members looking to earn their accreditation. For more information, contact Sarah Brown, APR.
Looking to get your APR (Accredited in Public Relations)? Let us help! In addition to offering scholarships, we’ve streamlined the Accreditation process to make it less time intensive for Accreditation seekers and current APRs who participate in the process. This year's Accreditation chair is
Sarah Brown, APR.