Broadcast Technology Degree and Training Programs

<p>Certificate and associate's degree programs are most widely offered in broadcast technology and radio broadcasting. Certificate programs can take 12-18 months to finish, while associate's degree programs can span from 18-24 months in length. Some certificate programs are aimed at those who wish to work as an independent videographer. Associate's degree programs are typically for those looking to work in the radio, television or film industries. </p> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><td><b>Program Types</b></td><td>Certificate, associate's</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Common Course Topics</b></td><td>Equipment operation, digital imaging, field production, video editing, software use</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Online Availability</b></td><td>Typically programs aren't offered online, though some general education courses could be completed online</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Career Possibilities</b></td><td>Broadcast technician, radio operator, sound engineering technician</td></tr> </table><h3 id="section---WhatWillILearn">What Will I Learn?</h3> <p>During a broadcast technology program, you'll work in sound studios and learn how to use a variety of technical equipment such as cameras, lighting tools and sound equipment, in addition to video software. Over the course of a program, you'll develop a portfolio that you can add to your resume when job hunting. Common topics that broadcast technology classes explore include: </p> <ul><li>Radio and TV production </li><li>Video editing </li><li>Digital imaging </li><li>Camera operation </li><li>Broadcast management </li><li>Field production </li></ul><h3 id="section---IsTheDegreeAvailableOnline">Is the Degree Available Online?</h3> <p>Due to the need to work in studios using a variety of equipment, broadcast technology programs aren't typically offered online. If you're interested in distance learning, some programs are available that allow you to take your general education courses online. In online courses, you can work asynchronously and communicate with instructors through e-mail or telephone. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatCareersAreAvailable">What Careers are Available?</h3> <p>A certificate or associate's degree in broadcasting technology enables you to work as a broadcast technician, a radio operator or a sound engineering technician. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), these job fields increased at an average rate of three percent from 2019-2029; however, applicants can expect to face competition in larger cities since jobs will be in greater demand throughout urban areas (<i>www.bls.gov</i>). </p> <p>The BLS reported that broadcast technicians earned a mean yearly salary of $49,250 as of May 2020, while audio and video technicians made an annual mean wage of $53,390 as of May 2020. Sound engineering technicians earned a mean salary of $67,210 annually in May 2020, stated the BLS.</p>