APR or Advanced Degree? How to Decide the Next Step in Your Professional Development
Posted on Mar. 12, 2022 / Professional Development / Subscribe 0
APR or Advanced Degree? How to Decide the Next Step in Your Professional Development
With so many options for professional development in the field of public relations, how do you decide between earning your APR or pursuing an advanced degree?
When I entered public relations after a decade in science journalism, the desire to learn as much as I could about the industry, now that I was an insider, led me to research my myriad options. I looked at master’s degree programs and accreditation in public relations (APR). I chose the MBA route after some thought, especially since I had already completed my coursework for a master's in journalism but didn’t have the experience recommended to get an APR.
It was the best decision for me at the time. I loved the strategic management and marketing classes, which I could use in my current position. After completing my MBA, I then focused on my APR. I felt that the knowledge I gained from my work and my MBA classes gave me an advantage.
For those who are choosing between an APR or an advanced degree, here’s what I’ve learned:
What do you want to get out of the process?
As someone who loves to learn, I want to enjoy the journey. I loved my MBA program, but the sense of accomplishment came at graduation. With the APR process, the journey meant more than the piece of paper at the end.
The presentation allowed me to apply the public relations knowledge and skills I had learned to use, and the exam served as a cumulative test of everything I had learned through the process.
What are you willing to put into the process?
Consider the time, cost and commitment for each of your options.
Earning your APR can take up to one year but can be completed sooner if you accelerate the process. An executive program or advanced degree can take anywhere between one and three years or more. If you need a break between classes, you can pick up months or years later for most programs. For the APR, the one-year clock begins when you submit your application, so it’s best to plan to finish within 12 months.
The cost of your APR is $385 for the application. Additional classes, boot camps and educational materials may add to the price tag. Some employers cover the fees associated with accreditation. On the other hand, a degree program could be several thousand dollars.
Many employers cover the cost of degree programs, but not certifications. Ask your employer what is covered when it comes to professional development. Some Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) chapters will reimburse your APR fee, including PRSA Memphis.
Often, the APR process is a self-guided journey, but some chapters provide resources and mentors to help professionals applying for accreditation. Degree programs may be more structured, with assignment deadlines, a dedicated professor, and a group of fellow students to help study and build a network.
When I chose my MBA program, I knew I needed structured, in-person classes. Dedicating that time away from family and potential late nights at work helped me focus on my classwork. With my APR, I set aside time to complete the application essays, presentation, and studying, but I wouldn’t pick it up for weeks or even a month at a time when life got busy. The occasional check-in from my mentor helped motivate me to stay on track.
What are you expecting after you successfully finish your goal?
Ask yourself what you expect to gain after you complete your APR or degree: is it a new job, a promotion, leadership opportunities, or credibility and thought leadership?
Within the public relations industry, having an APR goes a long way. Accreditation demonstrates your personal and professional commitment to the highest standards of public relations. If you’re at an organization or in an industry that values academia or an advanced degree, a master’s degree may get you further when it comes to elevating you on the career ladder.
Talk to peers and potential mentors to help you decide the best path. Review your time commitments, financial obligations and reimbursement opportunities. Based on your career outlook, talk to your boss or industry leaders to see what they look for when promoting or hiring in their organization. Finally, ask yourself which option would give you the most personal satisfaction, and make the leap.
If you’re wondering if it’s the right time, read “Is it a good time to earn your APR?”
If you’re considering beginning the process, contact [email protected].
Elizabeth Whittington, MBA, APR, is the PRSA Memphis 2022 APR Chair. She is the director of executive communications for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
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