|
|
|
|
Here are the answers to the most-asked questions about the Universal
Accreditation Program:
What is accreditation?
A voluntary certification program for public relations professionals.
What is the purpose of Accreditation?
The purpose is to unify and advance the profession by identifying
those who have demonstrated broad knowledge, experience and
professional judgement in the field. The program seeks to improve
public relations practice. The designation Accredited in Public
Relations (APR) signifies a high professional level of experience and
competence.
Why become Accredited?
Increasingly, job listings are specifying APR preferred. Senior public
relations professionals have been outspoken in support of
Accreditation.
How old is the Universal Accreditation Program?
The Universal Accreditation Program was formed in January 1998. Nine
public relations organizations now participate in the universal
program, including the Agricultural Relations Council, Florida Public
Relations Association, Maine Public Relations Council, National School
Public Relations Association, Public Relations Society of America (PRSA),
Religion Communicators Council, Society for Healthcare Strategy and
Market Development, Southern Public Relations Federation, and the
Texas Public Relations Association. The program is administered by
PRSA.
Who governs the process?
The Universal Accreditation Board - comprised of one chair and
representatives from each partner organization dedicated to three-year
terms - oversees the program. Providing a balanced blend of
backgrounds in a number of public relations specialities, this group
of senior-level Accredited members meets four times a year. Day-to-day
operations are administered at PRSA Headquarters. Responsibilities of
the Universal Accreditation Board include the following:
* Develops and implements policy for the program
* Develops and maintains the Accreditation Examination
* Oversees the development of Examination questions, answer keys, and
ensures content is based on the * Body of Knowledge
* Reviews appeal cases
* Grants Accreditation
Who is eligible?
Members of partner organizations who 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 in an
accredited college or university.
Also, non-members who belong to member organizations of the North
American Public Relations Council (NAPRC) and who meet the same
requirements as Members are eligible.
Is Accreditation good for life?
Yes, with fulfillment of Maintenance of Accreditation requirements.
Every three years, professionals Accredited after January 1, 1993 must
accumulate the required number of points in continuing education,
professionalism or service categories as part of the Maintenance of
Accreditation Program. This further strengthens the value of the APR
credential and keeps professionals actively involved in the currents
of the public relations profession.
|
|
|
|
