Accreditation

Thinking of Doing Your Accreditation In Public Relations (APR)? Need More Information?

We can help you take the next step.Taking that next step may seem daunting, but the experience and outcome of earning your APR is time and effort well invested. Your dedication to the program combined with the resources and assistance offered by CPRS Hamilton and CPRS National can help you navigate through this process. So, why not consider adding this to your list of goals for next year?

What does APR mean?

The Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) designation is a respected measure of professional experience in the field of public relations. This program recognizes the dedication, energy, perseverance and competence of successful public relations professionals.

How many professionals have earned their APR?

To-date, 497 individuals, accounting for one third of CPRS members across Canada, are accredited members of CPRS.
Within CPRS Hamilton, 48 percent of our members have earned their APR, demonstrating their ongoing commitment to the profession.

What are the benefits of earning my APR?

Top Ten Reasons to Seek Accreditation

Who is eligible?

If you are a member of CPRS in good standing with five years of full-time public relations work experience, you are eligible to apply.

What is required?

Eligible candidates must complete an application form and submit it prior to the December 1 deadline.
After being approved by the National Council on Accreditation, candidates will participate in a three part process consisting of:
• a review of a work sample;
• a written examination and,
• an oral examination.

What is the timing of the process?

The Accreditation Calendar provides a general sense of timelines; however, the overall process occurs one time per year.

What can I expect?

Preparing for the APR may be challenging but it certainly has its rewards. Although the examinations are designed to test breadth and depth of public relations experience and ability, consistent with a minimum of five years full-time public relations experience, candidates are highly encouraged to prepare thoroughly through formal and informal means.

CPRS Hamilton offers support to members seeking accreditation so you won’t have to navigate this process alone. The Accreditation Chair is available to help guide candidates through the process and may schedule pre-accreditation sessions that include peer support.

Candidates should be committed to the preparation process and ensure that they are able to set aside time to prepare. Your dedication combined with practical support offered to candidates through CPRS Hamilton will assist you through this process.

CPRS National’s website contains resources and information for members seeking Accreditation including the Accreditation Handbook, practice examinations, and a Top 10 suggested reading list that will help you prepare.

How are examinations conducted?

Accreditation examinations are held annually across Canada. By careful scheduling year after year, the National Council on Accreditation endeavours to ensure equitable access, taking into account variations in size of Member Societies. Examinations are conducted in both English and French ; a Chief Examiner has been appointed for each language.

The three parts of the examination are marked independently by each of three examiners. The marks are compiled by the Chief Examiners and submitted to the National Council on Accreditation for review and approval.

When will I be notified of the results?

Candidates are notified following the Council’s approval of the results. Generally this occurs one full year or more after submitting your initial application.

When can I begin using the APR designation?

Upon notification of success, candidates can begin to use the APR designation.

Is the APR designation valid indefinitely?

Candidates in good standing who remain members of CPRS are able to use the APR designation. Members are also required to maintain their APR status every five years. New APRs are considered maintained until their five year anniversary,

What is required to maintain my APR?

Maintaining your APR designation is a milestone on the road of continuous personal growth and credentials. A minimum of 15 units are required every 5 years to maintain your APR.
Maintenance of accreditation units can be earned in three categories:

• Training (minimum 5 units)
• Professional Activities
• Community Services

For further information on APR maintenance, please login to the CPRS National website using your designated username and password. Accredited members can learn more about the program, use the online maintenance system to keep track of and submit qualifying maintenance activities and check their status.

Newly designated APRs are considered maintained until their 5th year anniversary.

How can I take the next step?

We’re here for you. CPRS Hamilton’s board of directors and members can offer you the support you need to navigate through this process.

Contact us to find out more.

Melissa Macdonald APR, CPRS Hamilton Accreditation Chair, at 905-301-7887 or melissaamacdonald@yahoo.com.