CloseAbout APR
Internationally recognized, the Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) credential integrates timeless communications principles with contemporary strategies and tactics. The process of earning your APR takes your skills to the next level by exposing you to today’s cutting-edge strategies and practices, assessing your skills to identify strengths and opportunities for growth, and demonstrating your personal and professional commitment to excellence.
As a skilled PR professional, you know your success is dependent on staying relevant, resourceful, and inspired. APR sets you apart from your peers and proves you have the know-how to take your career to its fullest potential. It takes a professional — someone with exceptional experience, broad expertise, and strong dedication and values — to thrive at what you do.
It is recommended that candidates have at least five years’ experience in the full-time practice or teaching of public relations and hold either a bachelor’s degree in a communication-specific field (e.g., public relations, journalism, mass communication) or have equivalent work experience.
Accreditation in Four Steps
The Accreditation process can be summarized in four steps. It is important to review resources available for all four steps, starting with the process chart, before pursuing APR.
- Review and complete the Examination for Accreditation in Public Relations Application.
- Study and sit for a Panel Presentation.
- Continue to study and complete the computer-based examination.
- Demonstrate a commitment to lifelong learning through maintenance.
Accreditation Resources
Universal Accreditation Board
APR Application
APR Study Guide
APR Panel Presentation Candidate Instructions
APR Panel Questionnaire
APR PREP Online2Learn
APR Maintenance
Get Help for APR!
This isn’t a process that is meant to be taken alone – NAPRCA can help! If you have any questions about accreditation, please reach out to the Chapter’s APR Chair, Madi Winkler, APR at madimwinkler@gmail.com.