Accreditation

 The process by which an agency or organization evaluates and recognizes a program of study or institution as meeting certain predetermined qualifications or standards. 
          o NRPA/AALR accredited:  Recreation, park resources and leisure services baccalaureate degree programs accredited by the Council on Accreditation sponsored by the National Recreation and Park Association in cooperation with the American Association for Leisure and Recreation.
          o Regionally accredited educational institution:  An institution of higher education accredited by a Council on Postsecondary Accreditation (COPA) regional accrediting agency.  

Certification

     The process by which a non-governmental agency or association grants recognition to an individual who has met certain predetermined qualifications specified by that agency or association.  For  purposes of this plan,  certification encompasses the "Model Certification Plan for Recreation, Park, Resources, and Leisure Service Personnel" established by the NRPA National Certification Board.  

CPRP Examination

     The national examination for Certified Park & Recreation Professionals administered by the NRPA National Certification Board.  

Full-time experience/employment

     Shall be defined by the following characteristics:           
          o 30 hours or more per week employment in a recreation, park resources, and leisure service position; and
          o primary source of income; and
          o cumulative experience requirement met within twice the time (i.e., accumulated time for a two (2) year experience requirement must be within a four (4) year period maximum); and
          o experience is counted only after receipt of the degree or diploma.

Re-certification

     The process of becoming certified again in the NRPA Model Certification Plan after previous certification has lapsed or been withdrawn.  

Renewal of Certification

     The process of maintaining certification.