Included in the case studies is a problem specifically addressing the healthcare field. In addition to the written exam, candidates participate in an oral test given by a panel of three Accredited peers. During the oral interview, candidates are asked about their public relations experience, specialty of practice, accomplishments, ethics, comprehension of public relations and its role in business and society. Some of this material can be tested in closed-end or multiple choice questioning. Essay questions are also used.
All new questions undergo a validation process before inclusion in the examination.
A professional service firm determines whether questions are valid based on statistical analysis, but the final decision to include a question rests with the Universal Accreditation Board. The written test is initially scored by a professional service firm. Canididates' responses are scrupulously examined by the firm in comparison to detailed answer keys and point allocations provided by the Universal Accreditation Board. Tests that fall within a few points of achieving a passing grade are reviewed automatically by members of the Universal Accreditation Board. Ultimately, the Universal Accreditation Board grants or denies Accreditation.