Park and recreation professionals provide essential services to their communities. Becoming a Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE) will not only keep your skills sharp, but also give you prominence in the field. Earning your CPRE will bring you to the pinnacle of the profession and demonstrate you as the true leader you are.
The CPRE certification is the highest level a park and recreation professional can reach and will give you many career advantages, including:
- Demonstrating leadership in all aspects of managing a park and recreation department.
- Mastering policy development and the management of fiscal, property and personnel resources.
- Gaining an edge over other candidates when a promotion opportunity pops up or your dream job calls.
- Joining an elite group of more than 300 CPREs who have committed to advancing our field.
*Special Offer*
*Any applications received before March 1, 2020 or after April 30, 2021 are not eligible for the promotion. All applicable CPRE application and exam fees must be paid in full on or between March 1 to April 30 to qualify for the 25 percent off the Management of Park and Recreation Agencies, 4th Ed. eBook or eBook bundle.
Eligibility
To qualify to become a CPRE, you must meet one of the following requirements:
- Hold a current Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) Certification and have a bachelor’s degree and five years of professional full-time manager experience.
- Hold a current CPRP Certification and have a master’s degree or higher and four years of professional full-time manager experience
An individual may be either a CPRP or a CPRE, but they cannot maintain both certifications at one time.
How to Become a CPRE
To become a CPRE, you must meet the eligibility requirements above, submit an application and pass the CPRE exam. To get started, complete the online application and pay the application and exam fee. CPRE certification is valid for three years.
Apply Online Apply by Mail
Not a CPRP? No problem, sign up for both exams at the same time for a discounted rate using the CPRP and CPRE Dual Application. Applicants must qualify for both exams, for more information on qualifications for the CPRP click here.
Individual CPRE Application and Exam Fees
- $345 for NRPA Members
- $404 for non-NRPA members
Learn More About the Exam
Group Discount Packages
- Premier Agency Package – NRPA’s Premier members can now save up to $95 dollars on applications by applying for a group discount.
- Agency Package – Allows for 3 or more individuals to apply for a group discount regardless of membership status with NRPA (additional fees may apply).
- University Package – Your University’s faculty, staff and students may apply for group discounts on application fees and study materials through NRPA.
CPRE Prep Materials and Resources
Access the CPRE Candidate Handbook, Procedures Manual, special testing accommodation forms and other resources to help you become a CPRE.
Prep Materials and Resources
For questions or further information on CPRE certification, please review the CPRE Frequently Asked Questions or email us at certification@nrpa.org.
