Accreditation Can Be Yours!

PRSA’s new universal accreditation examination is in full swing, and members of the Northwest Ohio Chapter are making strides toward accreditation. In 2004, a dozen members completed an eight-week study course, the chapter’s first. In 2005, several members successfully completed the Readiness Review. And in July 2005, William K. Hamilton, ABC, APR, became the chapter’s first member to successfully pass the new examination.

For more information about accreditation, contact Accreditation Chair, Julia L. Orwig, APR, at jorwig@orwig.net

On Sept. 16, National PRSA President Judith Turner Phair, APR, Fellow PRSA, awarded accreditation to the chapter’s first member to pass the new examination, Bill Hamilton, APR... congratulations, Bill! Nearly one third of the members of the Northwest Ohio Chapter are accredited, well above the national average of 22 percent.

  Teleseminars provide topic-by-topic help

PRSA regularly offers teleseminars on various topics. Some are designed especially for members who are studying to become accredited.  For details on this and upcoming sessions, visit www.prsa.org.

  New Exam.....New Tools.....Take a Look....

The Universal Accreditation Board in 2003 rolled out a new examination and process for the APR. Like the previous examination, the new process requires a thorough knowledge and skills set in public relations. However, the new examination is much more accessible to members in terms of scheduling the test and receiving feedback, for example. What's more, PRSA has provided a wealth of information and resources to help members in their preparation.

  APR...Accredited in Public Relations

APR (Accredited in Public Relations) is a mark of distinction for public relations professionals who demonstrate their commitment to the profession and to its ethical practice, and who are selected based on broad knowledge, strategic perspective, and sound professional judgment.

APR is a strong brand representing more than 90 percent of all practitioners accredited by any certification process in the public relations field. Increasingly, job listings are specifying “APR preferred.” While factors such as years of experience and seniority contribute to increased salary, Accredited public relations practitioners earn about 14 percent or about $10,000 more annually than their non-Accredited counterparts. (Source: 2003 Salary Survey as reported in PRWeek, March 24 issue).

APR dominates the field of professional certifications in our industry with 4,300 PRSA members holding Accreditation—about 22% of all PRSA members.

The Northwest Ohio Chapter is well above the national average, boasting some 30% of members who have earned Accreditation.

For those who have achieved this distinction, the value of the credential is viewed in many ways. For some, becoming Accredited means proof of their knowledge. For others, it means achieving a personal goal. For many, it opens the doors to more senior level positions, higher salaries and a deeper understanding of public relations. Regardless of the reasons for seeking Accreditation, professionals are outspoken in their support.   Visit www.prsa.org or www.praccreditation.org for full details on the process, including application and frequently–asked questions.

  The Accreditation Process at a Glance...

1. Apply ($25) for eligibility at www.praccreditation.org and order a study guide ($25).
   
2. Contact the Chapter Accreditation Chair at any time for advice or coaching services.
   
3. Complete the Readiness Review questionnaire at www.praccreditation.org and compile a portfolio.
   
4. Request a Readiness Review from the Chapter Accreditation Chair.
   
5. Participate in a Readiness Review.
   
6. Schedule the written portion of the examination via www.prometric.com or 1-800-274-1900 ($275 for PRSA members).
7. Take the written portion of the examination.
   

  Interested in Pursuing Accreditation?

Contact Accreditation Chair Julia L. Orwig, APR, at jorwig@orwig.net

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