1.  Identify Eligible APR Candidates

• Become familiar with the computer-based Examination and support materials
• Recruit, identify and invite candidates, promote value and benefits of Accreditation
• Identify volunteers to work with you as coaches, mentors and Readiness Review panelists  
• Guide volunteers to ensure that they are familiar with materials appropriate for their roles
• Receive names of candidates approved in your area from UAB

2.  Deliver Coaching, Mentoring, Support Services

• Secure UAB-provided online Coach's Guide
• Use Coach's Guide in combination with online exercises, reference materials and Online Study Course to deliver local prep program
• Offer prep support, mentoring and other resources to candidates

3.  Schedule Readiness Review

• Receive notification of candidate request for Readiness Review from UAB 
• Receive four copies of Readiness Review Questionnaire from candidate
• Distribute candidate's questionnaire and panelists' materials to three Readiness Review panelists 15 business days in advance of Readiness Review
• Explain what is required and time commitment, i.e., approximately two hours to review each candidate's questionnaire and develop questions to ask during the session, and one-to-two hours for each Readiness Review
• Designate Readiness Review Panel Chair
• Schedule candidate(s) for Readiness Review

4.  Conduct Readiness Review

• Conduct review, vote to Advance/not Advance candidate to computer-based Examination
• Counsel candidate on additional preparation needed for computer-based Examination
• Send original copy of Questionnaire and scoring forms to UAB
• Receive UAB notification of Advance/not Advance status unless candidate has requested that it not do so
• If candidate does not Advanced, re-schedule Readiness Review upon candidate's request no sooner than 90 days after first Review
• If candidate is Advanced, provide support and encouragement to proceed to the computer-based Examination while preparation is fresh

5.  Candidate Takes Examination

• Create supportive environment for candidate, encourage additional preparation if they do not succeed when they take the computer-based Examination
• Receive UAB notification of results unless candidate has requested that it not do so

6.  Schedule Celebration

• Schedule APR presentation/celebration at local event

* Please see Candidate's Process

 

In this section:

Main

Competencies / KSAs Tested

FAQs

APR Chair's Process for the Examination for Accreditation in Public Relations


UAB Accreditation Tips & Tools

Testimonials

"To me, Accreditation validates to clients my ability to counsel and understand public relations strategies and programs. It assures clients that I’m committed to and serious about the practice of public relations."

- Kathy Burnham, APR
Vice President
Padilla Speer Beardsley

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