PRSA-Cleveland/Akron Chapters

Announces 2010 Fall Accreditation Plans

Informational Meeting – For PRSA members considering Accreditation – Wed., Sept. 8, 5:45 p.m.

Akhia Public Relations, 85 Executive Parkway, Hudson, Ohio 44236

3 Evening Classes – To be scheduled between Sept. 20 – Oct. 27

*(You help determine the schedule!)

Computerized Exam (taken anytime at candidate’s preference after passing the Readiness Review. Exams are administered at all Sylvan Learning Centers.)

There is no cost for prep classes.

PRSA’s Cleveland and Akron Chapters will host prep classes for members seeking Universal Accreditation over five weeks (3 classes) starting at 5:45 at Akhia Public Relations, Hudson. Classes are not mandatory but are highly recommended. Alternatively, there is an online study course available through www.prsa.org. The cost is $195 (local prep classes are free).

At the informational meeting on Sept. 2, Candidates will receive a complete overview of the Universal Accreditation testing process including the Readiness Review Portfolio Presentation, preparation resources and the multiple-choice computer exam. Following this introduction, candidates who want to proceed will have approximately three weeks to complete the following:

• Apply for the exam through PRSA – National. Download the application at www.prsa.org by clicking on Professional Development and selecting Accreditation. Members have one year from the date of application approval to complete the testing process. The cost is $395, with a $110 rebate to PRSA members who pass the exam. (Please feel free to apply earlier if you are certain you will be proceeding with the process. The application is good for one year).
• Visit the Preparation Resources link and borrow/purchase the general textbook that we will be using in class: Effective Public Relations by Cutlip, Center and Broom, Prentice-Hall, 1999. (We will also be referencing the book: Public Relations: Strategies and Tactics by Dennis Wilcox, et. al., Longman, 2000. If you can borrow/purchase this book as well, that would be helpful but is not necessary.)
• Via email, contact one or both of the Co-Chairs listed below to confirm participation and obtain a class schedule, Please provide your complete contact information. Candidates will receive a syllabus and reading assignments.