APR Accreditation
As a skilled public relations professional, you know your success is dependent on staying relevant, resourceful, and inspired. The Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) credential certifies your drive, professionalism, and principles, setting you apart from your peers and positioning you as a leader and mentor in the competitive public relations field.
The strategic skillset acquired through the APR process is applicable to all industries and areas of practice. Once internalized, the “APR mindset” lends itself to Accredited practitioners’ work, resulting in more strategic, deliberate and ethical practices.
Thinking about getting your aPR?
Hear from Tammy Belton-Davis, our Programming Chair, about her APR journey.
How Life ‘Life’ed’ on the Journey to My APR
Let’s be real - pursuing the Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) wasn’t something I took on because I had extra time on my hands. Between leading Athena Communications, teaching at Marquette University, serving on the boards of incredible organizations, and dedicating myself to advancing equity in our field and beyond, my plate is full. But the importance of representation in our industry - and my deep love for learning - made this journey one worth taking.
The credential mattered, but what truly stuck with me was the journey to get there. It didn’t begin with textbooks or study guides—it started with a conversation. A colleague and local PRSA chapter chair shared their own APR experience. They talked about the challenges, the growth, the “aha” moments. In their story, I saw myself. Suddenly, it didn’t feel so intimidating. That conversation, and others, lit the spark—and made the whole process feel not just possible, but worth it.
Was it easy? Nope. I had a plan. Then life laughed and said, “Nice try.” What was supposed to be a straight path stretched into more than two years. A year in, I lost my dearest friend, and in the depths of that grief, continuing felt impossible. But I kept going. Slowly, step by step, the journey reshaped me—made me stronger as a professor, a practitioner, and an equity leader. And something incredible happened: the work we were doing at Athena and in my classroom began to shift. I was applying what I was learning in real time, and it was making a real impact.
To some, those three little letters (APR) might not mean much. But in our world, it shows you're serious. It shows you’ve done the work. And for me, it’s also about showing others, especially up-and-coming pros who have a shared life experience, this path is possible.
Thinking about going for the APR? Do it. Start the convo. Find someone who's been through it and tap into their wisdom. Carve out the time—even when it feels impossible. Life will “life”, but it’s absolutely worth it.
About the Author
Tammy Belton-Davis, APR, doesn’t just lead—she disrupts. As founder and president of Athena Communications, a Milwaukee-based brand and strategic communications firm, she’s spent 25+ years shaking up the spaces of government, education, and public relations. Her work in equity, isn’t a side mission—it’s at the core of everything she does. Tammy’s an award-winning force, a voice people listen to, and a leader who turns vision into action. She teaches corporate writing at Marquette University, served as the inaugural chief diversity officer at Milwaukee Repertory Theater, and owns every stage she steps on as a speaker and facilitator. A proud Alverno College grad, Tammy is fiercely committed to mentoring future communication pros and leaving a legacy of bold, unapologetic impact.
Different “Paths to APR” in Southeastern Wisconsin
One path to APR is individual study and preparation guided by an Accredited mentor. This path can be accomplished at any time based on the candidate’s personal schedule. To start this path, interested candidates apply online. Once approved, candidates may study on their own, request a mentor, and participate in regional and national online study classes.
Our local chapter sometimes offers a 2-month preparation course for PRSA members who want additional guidance from Accredited professionals and support from fellow members going through the process. The course uses a “cohort” approach to the prep sessions, meaning we meet as a group and share learning experiences that feature enriching discussions, cultivation of professional and personal networks, and a defined timeline. The course is offered based on facilitator availability and a minimum number of interested candidates.
Steps Toward Earning Your APR
1. Complete the Examination for Accreditation in Public Relations Application online and pay fee of $385 for PRSA members.
2. Study and sit for a Panel Presentation.
3. Continue to study and complete the examination. The examination is administered online with Certification Management Services.
4. Demonstrate a commitment to lifelong learning through renewal.
Financial Incentives
The following financial incentives are available to PRSA chapter members who earn their APR:
• Our local chapter, Southeastern Wisconsin PRSA, offers reimbursement for a candidate’s application fee if they pass the APR exam.
• PRSA national offers a $100 rebate to every candidate who successfully completes the APR exam on their first try.
• The PRSA Midwest District launched a scholarship program in 2022 for members (within the district) who earn their Accreditation. Eligible candidates can apply to receive $100 reimbursement for the cost of the APR test. The scholarship is available to members even if they received scholarships from their local PRSA or received the $100 rebate from PRSA. The district scholarship fund is limited to five applicants per year and distributed first come. To apply for the scholarship, send an email to [email protected] with the subject line "APR Scholarship Application."
• Some local companies and public sector organizations offer professional training reimbursement for the APR application fee, study materials and classes. Check with your professional development team.
• The Southeastern Wisconsin Chapter will purchase and present an APR pin ($20 value) to every member who earns Accreditation.
Questions? Contact our local APR Chair, Ann Knabe, Ph.D., APR+M at [email protected]
