Perceived Benefits of National Recreation and Park Association Certifications

Abstract

The aim of this study is to assess the perceived benefits of National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) certifications. The NRPA offered three certifications in 2010: Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP), Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO), and Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI). The electronic survey sent from authors covered the type of work in which the individual is involved, the certifications, the perceived benefits of attaining the certifications, and the satisfaction level with being a certified professional. The study shows that the majority of individuals holding NRPA certifications have attached some type of value to attaining certification. Personal sense of achievement, increased knowledge of the field, career advancement, and networking opportunities were identified as the most important benefits in attaining certifications.

Keywords:

• National Recreation and Park Association
• certifications
• perceived benefits
• value
• satisfaction level