Professional Certification

Quality of life is important to individuals. For this reason, many communities have invested significantly in their park, recreation and cultural services. The result is citizens who are content with where they live, work and play. They enjoy activities that renew them physically and emotionally. Other benefits are also derived beyond that of the individual citizen. Quality park and recreation services aid the economy by sales of recreation equipment and clothing, by improving property values, by attracting visitors, retirees and new business and industry. Recreation programs provide a setting for ethnic and cultural diversity, an alternative to delinquent behavior, and opportunities for socialization. Parks provide a comfortable area for the enjoyment and appreciation of the natural environment.

Because of the specific professional skills required for park and recreation leadership in the 21st century, the National Recreation and Park Association and Louisiana Recreation and Park Association recommend that cities, towns, parishes, and special districts entrust the administration of their recreation and parks service investment in those persons who are properly educated, professionally trained and certified.

---------------------FAQ-------------------

1. What is certification?

Certification is the pro-active process where an individual voluntarily submits his or her credentials for review based on clearly identified competencies, criteria or standards. The Mississippi Park and Recreation Certification Board is the body officially approved in Mississippi to administer the National Certification program by the National Recreation and Parks Association’s Professional Certification Board.

2. Why become certified?

Certification is a tool for you to use. It shows that you have met the standards of the profession. You have made a commitment to continue your education. You have made a commitment to your profession. You have made a commitment to your organization's participants to give them the best you possibly can.

While certification is a voluntary practice, more and more employers are listing it as a desirable qualification of potential employment. Also the certified practitioner raises the quality of service nationwide and aides in public recognition of the profession.

3. Where is certification good?

The Mississippi certification plan has been approved by the National Certification Board based on the NCB model plan. This means that your Mississippi certification is recognized nationally and can be transferred to any other state participating in the National plan as you move through your career.

4. Who is eligible?

Anyone with a GED or higher degree and who is working full-time in the parks and recreation field is eligible to apply for certification. Based on your educational experience and number of years full-time work experience after you received your degree you can apply for different levels of certification.

5. How to apply?
1) See if your qualify for the exam
2) Fill out and return the Application for the NRPA Computerized CPRP Exam with your fee
3) Make sure you are prepared for the exam. Read what to expect during the exam and be sure to look through the CPRP Candidate Handbook.