Sports Broadcasting

Sports broadcasters work as analysts or play-by-play announcers for sports networks or specific teams. Their duties may include presenting news, calling games and interviewing guests. Broadcasters are primarily employed at the collegiate and professional levels.

While opportunities for work are available in television and radio, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that entry-level opportunities are more likely to be available through small stations. Work might be stressful, with tight schedules and deadlines being the norm for these professionals. Sports broadcasters typically work indoors within climate controlled studios or booths.

Extensive on-the-job training is required for a career in sports broadcasting. Many graduates gain this training through internships with television or radio broadcasting stations. Internships will offer hands-on experience under the supervision of skilled radio and television professionals.

Aspiring broadcasting professionals may begin their careers in non-broadcasting positions as reporters, equipment operators or production assistants. Once they have demonstrated a capacity for sports announcing, they may work their way up to on-air sports broadcasting positions and eventually move on to higher-paying positions at larger stations. Some sports broadcasters go on to host their own television or radio shows.

This 2-year program focuses on broadcasting for the Internet, television and other media. Many of the core courses can be taken online. Workshop and editing courses, as well as individual projects, may require the use of an on-campus studio with up-to-date equipment. Students graduate with a portfolio and skills in:

Lighting
Media and society
Electronic production
Video editing and post-production

A professional online certificate in broadcasting technology is available at the post-baccalaureate level. The program introduces students interested in broadcasting to essential theories, ethics and practices employed by broadcast professionals. Students follow online tutorials and video lectures and participate in online exchange with their instructors. A typical program lasts from 6 months to a year, and many programs require students to complete an internship in their chosen trade before the can graduate from the program. Students in the program are only required to take courses that focus on the essentials of the trade, such as: