PCR FAQs

Q: Why should I take these PCR courses?

A: The Professional Christian Retailers Certification Program is the only certification program for Christian retailers. It contains foundational knowledge for Christian retailers in nine subject areas: market analysis, finances, store operations, buying, marketing and promotions, personnel, selling and customer service, merchandising and display, and technology.

Q: How much does it cost?

A: When taken online or at the International Christian Retail Show, each lesson is $39 for members and $69 for non-members. Module tests are $10 each.

Q: Why does CBA offer the PCR program in different formats? What is the difference in each format and which one is right for me?

A: It is CBA’s desire to train our members as best and as often as possible. This is why we offer the same training materials in two different formats. Whether you take the PCR modules online or at the Show, you will study the same content. However, each format differs slightly in the delivery of that content.

If you take a PCR module online, you will receive an email invitation to attend a webinar, a seminar on the web. These webinars are canned sessions, meaning you will simply listen to a speaker who has recorded the material prior to you attending the session. The recorded speaker will lead you through the module content. Taking the PCR modules online is a great option if you want to work at your own pace.

If you take a PCR module at the International Christian Retail Show, you will complete all nine modules over the course of three years as only certain modules are presented each summer at ICRS. Modules are led by industry professionals and retail veterans. This is a great way for you to learn in a classroom setting and interact with your peers, but it will take you some time to become fully certified.

Q: What is the difference between a module and a lesson?

A: Each of the nine modules is composed of two or three lessons. The modules are like chapters in a book and the lessons are like sections of those chapters.

Q: Do I have to take PCR courses to be a CBA member?

A: No, you do not have to take PCR courses to be a CBA member. However, taking these courses will ground you in the essentials of Christian retailing and can improve your business.

Q: Can I take the PCR modules in any order or do I have to follow the order already established?

A: We suggest you start with the Strategic Plan module, as this information lays the foundation for the other modules. After you have successfully completed the Strategic Plan module, you are welcome to complete the rest of the modules in any order you like.

Q: What happens when I order a module?

A: Your order is sent to a CBA Member Services Representative who processes your order, bills your account, and then will send you an email with the password for the lessons you purchased. You will also receive an email from iLink with all the materials for the course.

Q: What is iLink?

A: iLink is a web conferencing tool CBA uses to present the PCR modules to you. iLink presents seminars online. CBA also uses iLink for their webinars.

Q: Do I need any particular software or type of computer to use iLink?

A: No, just a computer that can access the internet. iLink is an web-based software so there's nothing additional that you need to install on your computer.

Q: How do I become a certified Professional Christian Retailer?

A: After successfully passing all nine of the module tests, the next step is to write a strategic plan for your store. When you have completed your strategic plan, the CBA Training Staff will review the plan, provide you with feedback and help you revise your plan, if need be, so it is as effective as possible. Once your plan has gained the CBA Training Staff’s approval, you will be certified as a Professional Christian Retailer.

Q: I am ready to start becoming a Professional Christian Retailer! What do I need to do?

To attend a PCR session at ICRS, check the PCR session of your choice on the registration form when you register for ICRS by clicking here.

To order a PCR lesson online, go to the Order a PCR Module page, add as many lessons to your cart as you would like and click order. Your order will then be sent to CBA. You will receive a confirmation email with the passwords to the sessions and an email from iLink with the materials for the lessons.