PRAM

Universal Accreditation
Universal Accreditation is a universal, voluntary certification program for public relations professionals that aims to unify and advance the profession by identifying those who have demonstrated their knowledge, experience and judgment in planning and managing public relations activities. Universal Accreditation enables PR practitioners a common credential that increases the visibility, credibility and perceived market value of the profession. Successful completion of the Accreditation process results in the awarding of the designation Accredited in Public Relations (APR) to qualified public relations professionals.

The Accredited in Public Relations program originated in 1964 and was administered by PRSA until 1998, when the Universal Accreditation Board was formed to administer the Examination for Accreditation in Public Relations. The public relations organizations that are members of the Universal Accreditation Board include the Agricultural Relations Council, Florida Public Relations Association, Maine Public Relations Council, National School Public Relations Association, Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), Religion Communicators Council, Southern Public Relations Federation, Texas Public Relations Association and Asociación de Relacionistas Profesionales de Puerto Rico (Puerto Rico Public Relations Association).

To retain their designation, APRs must maintain membership in a participating organization (of which SPRF/PRAM is one) and complete the required Maintenance of Accreditation every three years.