Accreditation in Public Relations

“Accreditation is incredibly important to our association and has become a valuable asset to me professionally as well.  I feel very accomplished after successfully completing the APR national certification and was overjoyed to learn our chapter was recognized by FPRA for our certification and accreditation efforts during my year as chapter president.  It was like icing on the cake.” – Allison Campbell, APR, CPRC

The Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) credential, is the only nationally recognized certification of the public relations profession. Currently, more than 5,000 professionals from the agency, corporate, association and education fields hold the APR mark. The Ocala Chapter of the Florida Public Relations Association boasts 16 accredited members.

Established in 1964, the Accreditation in Public Relations is the profession’s only national postgraduate certification program. It measures 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. Granting of the APR is overseen by the Universal Accreditation Board (UAB).

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. Through their high professional and ethical standards, Accredited professionals contribute to greater understanding of public relations as a vital management function, and undermine those who would refer to our craft as spin, our professionals as flacks, and our currency as misrepresentation and disinformation.

If you’re interested in learning more about APR, contact us!