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 on the basis of broad knowledge, strategic perspective, experience, and sound professional judgment.

Accreditation elevates the stature of the profession, public relations societies and individual APRs. As employers demand more strategic, sophisticated communications counsel from their public relations staff, there is growing reliance on professional certification as a hiring and promotion criterion, both in the U.S. and abroad.

For information on accreditation, contact Donda D. Spiker, APR.

Eligibility
To apply for accreditation, which is voluntary, a candidate must be a member of PRSA. It is recommended that the candidate also have at least five years of paid, full-time experience in the professional practice of Public Relations, or in the teaching or administration of Public Relations courses at an accredited college or university.

Examination
Candidates must make a 1-2 hour presentation during a Readiness Review session with three accredited Public Relations professionals. Candidates who successfully pass the Review are notified within a month that they can then proceed taking an on-line multiple choice exam. The results are shared with the candidate within a few weeks after taking the exam.

Maintenance
Every three years, professionals accredited after January 1, 1993 must accumulate the required number of points in continuing education, professionalism or service categories to maintain their accreditation. This further strengthens the value of the credential and keeps APRs actively involved in the currents of the profession.