Accreditation
FPRA participates in Universal Accreditation. Members can demonstrate their professional skills by sitting for the APR (Accredited in Public Relations) exam. In addition, FPRA offers an even higher level of professional certification, giving members an opportunity to earn the title of Certified Public Relations Counselor.
What is APR?
Universal Accreditation is a voluntary program that allows you to demonstrate your proficiency in public relations through a standardized written exam following advancement from an oral readiness review. Successful completion of the exam validates a PR professional's commitment to the field and level of knowledge in public relations practice.
The purpose is to unify and advance the profession by identifying those who have demonstrated broad knowledge, experience and professional judgment in the field. The program seeks to improve public relations practice. The designation APR signifies a high professional level of experience and competence.
Certified Public Relations Counselor
The credential of Certified Public Relations Counselor is the second tier credential offered by the Florida Public Relations Association. 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 the Florida Public Relations Association and have a minimum of 10 years of professional practice in public relations.
The exam, which is administered throughout the year, consists of a written section, comprised of case studies, and an oral component, which requires the candidate to make a presentation to a panel of certified evaluators.
For the oral portion of the exam, candidates are encouraged to use an actual presentation they have made to an employer, a client or the media. The goal of the 30-minute presentation is to "sell" an idea or a course of action, rather than to demonstrate extemporaneous speaking skills.
The cost of the CPRC exam is $150. To take the CPRC exam, request an application from the State Association Office of FPRA, 40 Sarasota Center Blvd., Ste. 107, Sarasota, FL 34240 or call 941-365-2135.
For more information on accreditation, please contact Tracy Louthain at tlouthain@beachesofsouthwalton.com.