Broadcast Journalism Degrees: Requirements to Complete a Degree in Broadcast Journalism

Published Sep 25, 2009

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Broadcast journalism degree programs prepare students to become reporters, anchors, correspondents and producers. Most programs last four years and confer a Bachelor of Arts degree upon graduation. Broadcast journalism degree programs are designed to strengthen students' communication, research and presentation skills.

Broadcast Journalism Degree Program Overview

Individuals interested in careers in radio or television often complete a broadcast journalism degree program. This degree program allows graduates to find positions as broadcasters, reporters, news directors, assignment editors and broadcast writers. Broadcast journalism professionals enjoy public speaking, independence, short deadlines and a fast-paced work environment. Many stories break quickly, and there is little time to produce a broadcast segment. Broadcast journalism degree programs are also beneficial for advertising and public relation professionals.

Completing a Broadcast Journalism Degree Program

Students completing a broadcast journalism degree program learn how to research, gather, organize and present information effectively, albeit a written script or an impromptu live news segment. Many courses teach students how to work under pressure with tight deadlines while being respectful of diverse cultural environments. Broadcast production, investigative reporting, mass communication laws, news writing, non-fiction television, print production, radio news production and television reporting are sample courses of a broadcast journalism degree program. Many programs also require classes in ethics.

Job Training Required for Completing a Broadcast Journalism Degree Program

Many broadcast journalism degree programs encourage, if not require, students to work at local broadcasting studios or at the on-campus broadcasting network. Students may serve as writers, anchors, editors or producers and are exposed to broadcast production and its technical equipment, such as television cameras, lighting and microphones. There are no certifications required to work in broadcast journalism. However, many join professional associations, such as the National Association of Broadcasters.

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