Earning a degree in radio and TV broadcasting can lead to obtaining a job in this exciting field. A degree in radio and TV broadcasting can be earned by attending a two year technical school or community college.
There is no requirement to earn a bachelors degree, the only requirement is to be proactive and love to interact with people. Entering the field at any age level is possible and adults typically receive preference because of their established work ethics.
Radio and TV Broadcast Careers
Careers in radio and TV broadcasting encompass several different paths, which need consideration when entering an education and training program. Specialized areas include:
- Radio and TV Broadcast Technicians – operate, maintain, and perform limited repairs to the equipment used in radio and TV studios.
- Television Camera Operators – need a strong understanding of filming (digital techniques) and need to know editing techniques.
- Recording Engineers – work in studios, live performances, or public events. They produce high-quality recordings of music, interviews, debates, and other programs.
Education and Training Programs
Education programs in radio and TV broadcasting prepare students by taking the following foundation courses:
- Computer Technology – hardware and software programs related to the industry.
- Radio Studio Techniques – control room operations and smooth transition of audio.
- Video Editing – taking raw footage and converting it into a smooth production.
- Digital Photography – working with digital images and recordings.
- Field Production – camera operators and sound operators who cover live events as news teams.
- Internet Broadcasting – online real time streaming of video and audio.
- Internships – required to apply classroom techniques in work settings and to gain experience in the field.
Job Responsibilities in Broadcast Careers
The following provides additional job responsibilities for the three primary careers in the field. These include:
Radio and TV Broadcast Technicians
- Provides optimum broadcasts to listening audiences by regulating signal strength, clarity, balance, and ensuring a smooth transition between segments and programs.
- Performs routine preventive and light maintenance of radio or TV station equipment
- Works with other members of the radio or TV station to meet broadcast requirements
Television Camera Operators
- Shoots video footage of TV programs in studios as a studio camera operator
- Shoots video footage of live events in the field as part of a news team when a field camera operator
- Edits footage of news segments and other video footage which must be aired quickly
Recording Engineers
- Performs post-production editing
- Performs mixing and mastering of video and audio
- Produces sound effects and dub tracks in radio and film
Radio and TV Broadcast Career Incomes
According to the Salary.com (July 2008) the following is the annual salary range for:
- Radio and TV Broadcast Technician – $21,000 to $60,000
- TV Camera Operator – $23,000 to $49,000
- Recording Engineer – $31,000 to $83,000
The lower end represents average starting salaries and the upper end of each range represents over 20 years of service.
Working in the radio and TV broadcasting industry is competitive; however an excellent opportunity for someone seeking a change in careers. The degree for this career can be earned by taking classes part time and in the evening, as required to fit personal situations.
This makes entering radio and TV broadcasting much more obtainable for adults who do not want to complete a four year program in this or other career fields. Visit Changing Careers and Transferable Skills and 10 Tips for Adults Who are Going Back to School for additional advice and recommendations for helping to succeed in entering the broadcast industry.
David R. Wetzel - Dr. David Wetzel's experience includes more than 25 years in continuing, adult, and teacher education.
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