Click on any of the six sections below to find out more about programs PRSA has to offer.

10 Benefits Of PRSA Membership
Thoroughbred Chapter PRSA Awards
Communicator Of The Year Award
Professional Development
Accreditation
PRSA Code Of Ethics
Thoroughbred Chapter Bylaws



Accreditation
The designation Accredited in Public Relations (APR) signifies a high professional level of experience and competence. Successfully completing the APR exam indicates that a public relations professional has demonstrated broad knowledge, experience and professional judgment in the field.

The Accreditation program was established in 1964 as a way to improve the practice of public relations by encouraging professionals to remain current on the trends impacting their industry. Preparing for Accreditation helps professionals broaden and refresh their knowledge. Nearly half of the eligible PRSA members have earned Accreditation. Beginning in the summer of 2003, PRSA will launch a new and improved Accreditation exam process that more closely reflects what PR people do today, provides a better measure of professional knowledge, increases the value of APR, strengthens the APR brand and reduces barriers to potential APR candidates.

Those eligible to take the exam include PRSA members and 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. The fee for PRSA members is $275.

Also, nonmembers who belong to member organizations of the North American Public Relations Council and who meet the same requirements as members are eligible. Please contact PRSA Headquarters for details. The fee for members of other partner organizations is $385. The fee for nonmembers equals the fully allocated cost of administering the examination. In addition, nonmembers must pay an annual maintenance fee equal to PRSA member dues ($225).

Once Accreditation is earned, an individual must accumulate the required number of points in continuing education, professionalism or service categories every three years as part of the Maintenance of Accreditation Program. This further strengthens the value of the APR credential by keeping members actively involved and current in the profession.

For more information about becoming Accredited by the Public Relations Society of America, contact Sandra Plant. For answers to frequently asked questions, visit the PRSA Headquarters Web site. To download Accreditation exam applications, click here.