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Accreditation in Public Relations (APR)
A public relations and communications practitioner with five or more years of experience can gain accreditation through our APR programme.
Why become accredited?
Increasingly, job listings - particularly overseas - are specifying APR-preferred practitioners. Senior public relations professionals have been outspoken in support of Accreditation.
"APR is a symbol of professionalism. It demonstrates that individuals have the knowledge, ethics and experience that set them apart. It also demonstrates that they care about their own profession and that they are dedicated to enhancing their own personal abilities." - Joe. S. Epley, APR, Fellow PRSA, President, Epley Associates, USA.
The APR qualification tests a practitioner on standards set by a professional body. It certifies that a practitioner is both experienced and has proven high level of professional knowledge and ethical judgement.
APR is an international qualification. Graduates can use it as a point of difference when looking for work in the USA, Canada, UK, South Africa and Australia.
APR in New Zealand
PRINZ has more than 120 members who have achieved the status of APR. The PRINZ APR programme is designed to refresh and ‘test’ a candidate’s understanding across PR/communications management. It is understood that some practitioners work exclusively in a particular area. However, the APR coursework and meetings are designed to encourage practitioners to develop an understanding of all areas.
Are you eligible?
Accreditation in New Zealand is open to all PRINZ members with five years experience in professional public relations. In order to participate, candidates must be working at a level where they are managing projects. As a guide, candidates should be working at or above a communication adviser (in-house) or account manager (consultancy) position.
What's the process?
The programme starts in June and concludes in November. All interested member practitioners need to complete an online application form outlining their PR experience. Once the application is approved, they are enrolled in the programme and provided a handbook, programme schedule and a mentor.
In 2013 the APR investment is $950 plus GST. Applications are open now and close on 15 May 2013. Download the application form here.
