NRPA Certification Programs
NRPA offers a number of certification programs for industry professionals looking for greater career opportunities and advancement. These certifications not only demonstrate your commitment to the parks and recreation profession but also help to enhance the quality of parks and recreation services nationwide.
Your certification offers you recognition for your accomplishments and ability to meet national standards as well as providing you with additional skills and knowledge through continuing professional development and education.
The NRPA certification programs are governed by the National Certification Board; four certifications are currently offered:
Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) certification is granted to individuals employed in the recreation, park resources and leisure services profession who meet high standards of performance.
Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE) certification can be achieved by individuals employed in the recreation, park resources and leisure services profession who meet high standards of performance at a mastery (middle to upper management) level.
Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO) is a state-of-the-art certification for pool operators and aquatic facility managers. More than 16,000 aquatic facility operators have gained certification in the program's 16 years of existence.
Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) provides the credentials to inspect playgrounds for safety ensuring that each playground meets the current national standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
CRPA tracks the CEU's for current members as a member benefit, and will aid members in taking and studying for their CPRP and CPRE exams.
For questions or further information on certification, please email [email protected].