If you have been pondering how to take your career to the next level, consider seeking the Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) certification or becoming a Certified Public Relations Counselor (CPRC). The APR accreditation program is designed for public relations professionals with at least five years of job experience and/or a bachelor’s degree in a communications field.  The questions on the APR Examination are drawn from the enduring principles of public relations, including RPIE (Research, Planning, Implementation and Evaluation), ethics and law, crisis communication management and current issues in public relations.

Here are four quick reasons why seeking accreditation should be important to you:

• Gold Standard of the Profession: Visionary leaders in 1964 established the Accredited in Public Relations (APR) credential as a way to recognize practitioners who have mastered the knowledge, skills and abilities needed to develop and deliver strategic communications. Decades later, as public relations evolved, the APR remains the recognized gold standard for the profession.
• Recognized Standard: During the past 50 years, the procedures required to earn the APR have changed. However, one thing has not: The value behind Accreditation and the importance it plays in a society now driven by digital communications, rapidly emerging technologies and a 24-hour news cycle. Many communicators today work under the mantle of “public relations.” Accredited members go much further. They demonstrate commitment to the communications profession, to their clients, to their company or organization, and to themselves. Earning the APR is an individual achievement open only to seasoned working professionals with a recommended five or more years public relations experience. It’s a challenging process but it is worth it.
• High Performance: APRs are required to commit to learning through continuing education, serving as a volunteer or other prescribed professional development activities. Most importantly, APRs are required to measure up to high standards of performance, and to stay on the right side of ethical practice.

The credential of Certified Public Relations Counselor or CPRC is the second-tier credential offered by FPRA. The certification process was developed to recognize professional growth and achievement of senior members who have already earned the APR designation. Candidates for CPRC must be a member of FPRA and have a minimum of 10 years of professional practice in public relations. Learn more about the process and how to apply to sit for the exam.

The Certified Public Relations Counselor credential demonstrates an ability to counsel clients through all public relations scenarios, from crisis to internal to external communications. The CPRC credential is only provided to members with more than 10 years of experience. It is the highest level of credential obtainable through FPRA.

So, if you are looking for a way to take your career to the next level, consider pursuing APR / CPRC certification to help you realize your career goals with unique marks of distinction.