The Canadian Public Relations Society/Nova Scotia chapter actively promotes and supports the national Accredited in Public Relations (APR) program.

The APR designation demonstrates a respected measure of professional experience in public relations. Among the benefits of achieving your APR is professional recognition from fellow practitioners and the broader professional community. The self-directed professional development program consists of three parts: a work sample, written examination and oral examination- - all designed to test the breadth and depth of a candidate's PR experience and ability. The APR program takes approximately one year to complete.

Eligibility
To be eligible to pursue the accreditation process, a practitioner must be:

• A member in good standing of the Canadian Public Relations Society
• Employed full-time in Public Relations practice for at least five years
• Spend at least half of your time involved with specific PR activities

Accreditation Schedule
December 1: Deadline for submitting Accreditation application to CPRS National Office
April 1: Submission of work sample
October: Three and a half hour written accreditation exam, followed by a one to two hour oral exam

Benefits
What are the benefits of achieving your APR?

• Establishes professional credentials and recognition
• Improves skills and knowledge
• Reflects achievement, not easy but very rewarding
• Builds self-esteem
• Increases career opportunities and advancement
• Prepares you for greater on-the-job responsibilities
• Demonstrates commitment to PR profession

Information/Assistance
Contact Denise Corra, APR at denise.corra@canadapost.ca, tel 902-494-4076, or Cindy Bayers, APR at pebblecomms@eastlink.ca tel 902-889-9181, co-chairs CPRS/NS Accreditation Committee.