Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible?
CPRS will assess PR and communications programs delivered by any recognized post-secondary institution in Canada. In this context, a "Recognized Canadian post-secondary institution" is defined by the Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials as a "Public or private institution that has been given authority to grant degrees, diplomas, and other credentials by a public or private act of the provincial/territorial legislature or through a government-mandated quality assurance mechanism". CICIC definition
What do I need to do to apply?
To apply for assessment of your PR and/or Communications program(s), you are required to complete all sections of the application form and submit to Tbaker@cprs.ca. Fees may be paid by cheque made payable to Canadian Public Relations Society or credit card Visa/AMEX/Mastercard as indicated on the form. Alternatively, you may be invoiced. Applications will not be processed without full application fee. For personal assistance, call Tracey Baker, Director, Education at CPRS National Office at (647) 523-7034 or more quickly by email at Tbaker@cprs.ca.
What support is available to me as I work on my submission?
We are here to help. If you have any questions, need clarification or are simply looking for some advice, please don’t hesitate to contact Tracey Baker, MBA, Director of Education, CPRS National. She may be reached by phone at (647) 523-7034 or more quickly by email at Tbaker@cprs.ca.
What is the cost?
The application fee is $1,500, which includes the assessment for the first program at your institution. Additional programs at the same institution will be assessed for $500 per program. Should a program change occur during the recognition period, an early re-assessment fee of $500 per program will be applied. Further details are available in Appendix I, Fees.
What happens if my program is Denied recognition?
Should your program not meet the recognition requirements, you will receive a letter from CPRS with the option to contact the National Council on Education to discuss what may be done to adapt or revise the program and resubmit the application.
What does an 'In Progress' assessment decision mean?
Programs that do not meet all necessary criteria may be awarded an 'In Progress' status if the institution has indicated the intention to meet all criteria within a specified timeframe. In these cases, the program will receive a temporary approved status and will be reviewed again within the timeline to ensure all criteria are satisfied.
In Step 3 of the application process, what are examples of
"further documentation… to support its application, as required"?
Should you wish to provide additional information within your application as Addenda, you are encouraged to do so. Examples include (but are not limited to) letters of support, information about your program's history, relevant testimonials or any other information that you think would support your application.
Where should I send my forms?
Completed forms may be saved and emailed to Tbaker@cprs.ca. Fees may be paid by cheque made payable to Canadian Public Relations Society or credit card Visa/AMEX/Mastercard as indicated on the form. Alternatively, you may be invoiced. Applications will not be processed without full application fee.
When does the assessment take place?
Program assessment will take place four times per year; Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. If you apply prior to the scheduled assessment period, your application will be held until the next scheduled assessment. Please note: it is recommended that you submit your application forms no more than two weeks prior to a scheduled assessment date.
Why do we need to have our program(s) assessed?
Program recognition provides an education standard by which PR and Communications programs are assessed relative to established criteria and competencies. These newly developed measures give students and potential students a guide when making post-secondary institution choices. In addition, employers will use the Pathways program recognition as a benchmark in recruitment and hiring decisions. Institutions with recognized program(s) have an advantage over those whose programs are not recognized.
How long is the program recognized?
Program recognition is valid for up to five years barring any changes that would deem a re-assessment necessary. Should a re-assessment be warranted, a new five year term will apply from the new recognition date.
How can I get more presence in the online Centre for PR Education?
With program recognition comes the one year Bronze level program on the CPRS online Centre for PR Education program, a value of $400. If you want a premiere spot and all the additional features and benefits that come with it, upgrade to a Platinum level listing for an additional $800 in year one. Each year thereafter will be renewed at $1200 per year. Upgrades include a photo, logo, live links to your website and contacts, a 100+ word description and more. With self-administration, you are in control of the content of your page and can update/change it as often as you choose, making it a dynamic component of the program's promotional and advertising plan.
Can I upgrade my online Education Directory listing
prior to the end of the recognition term?
Yes. Fees are annual and will be prorated for the year in which the upgrade is made.