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Broadcaster: How to Become a Broadcaster

Published Sep 06, 2009

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Broadcast journalists research, write and report the news on television, radio and online. Broadcasters must possess exceptional writing skills, be comfortable working in front of an audience and keep abreast of current events. In video journalism, a broadcaster's appearance is important, so reporters need to practice impeccable hygiene. Some broadcasters, such as sports reporters or local news reporters, must be experts in the field they cover. Often, broadcast journalists must improvise, especially when covering a live event.

Broadcaster Career Summary

Broadcasters frequently work erratic schedules, sometimes starting or ending their work day in the middle of the night. Long hours, sometimes intense conditions and day-to-day unpredictability make broadcasting a grueling, yet exciting career. High-profile broadcast journalists might find themselves working in situations as varied as a city council meeting or a war zone. Many entry-level broadcasting positions exist in smaller markets, so reports frequently have to move for work and career advancement. Due to the consolidation of many radio and television stations, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, www.bls.gov, predicts that job growth for broadcasters will be slightly less than average.

Education Required to Become a Broadcaster

Most broadcasters earn at least a bachelor's degree in journalism through an accredited program. Broadcasting degree programs generally include a broad liberal arts education, coupled with courses in journalism ethics, theory and writing. Those who wish to become broadcast producers or editors might benefit from a master's degree in journalism. The Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC) at the University of Kansas is the main accreditation board for U.S. broadcast journalism programs.

Job Training Required to Become a Broadcaster

Increasingly, broadcasting employers are unwilling to hire people with little or no experience. Most broadcasters gain experience in college through campus radio and television stations and through summer and post-graduation internships. Entry-level broadcasters should expect to relocate to a small market and continue to relocate as their careers advance.

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