How to study radio broadcasting

Do you think you are suited to a career in radio broadcasting? If you answer yes to five or more of the questions below, then radio broadcasting is a career well worth exploring.

* Do you have a clear speaking voice and a good command of language?
* Do you have a broad general knowledge and interest in current affairs?
* Are you passionate about music and musicians?
* Do you find it easy to earn how to operate new technology?
* Do you cope well under pressure?
* Are you confident, outgoing and energetic?
* Are you a people’s person?

A career in radio broadcasting will allow you to work behind the microphone or behind the scenes at the station.

You may wish to pursue a career as a presenter where you could read news bulletins, traffic updates or present the weather, or you could work your way up to having your own show as a DJ.

You could deliver live action commentary on sporting events, politics and social and economic matters. You could specialise in the more technical aspects of the career such as studio engineering.

If writing is your thing, you could write scripts for the presenters, competitions or news bulletins.

You could eventually work your way up to station manager where you will be responsible for the strategic direction, DJ line-up and musical selection on your radio station.

Where is the best place to study?

INTEC College is one of the recommended South African institutions where you can study radio broadcasting. INTEC’s radio broadcasting course has both a theoretical and practical component – the practical training is conducted with the Broadcasting Training Institute. INTEC’s course is offered via distance learning, a flexible and affordable study method which allow students to continue working and also gives them the option of gaining in-house experience.

The Damelin TV and Radio Presenting Certificate is a one-year course, in which you will attend full-time classes during the week (based on certificate requirements).
With this programme, successful learners could pursue a career as a:
* Television presenter
* Radio presenter
* Continuity radio presenter
* Voice over artist
* Dubbing artist
* News anchor

The College SA Radio and Sound Engineering Studies course covers the following and more:
* How to get into radio
* The history of radio
* Getting to know the broadcasting industry
* Writing and scriptwriting for radio
* Working as a radio journalist
* Understanding media ethics
* Working as a radio presenter
* Developing on-air time management skills
* Operating within a recording or broadcasting studio
* How to construct accurate, clear and engaging stories
* Performing sound editing and engineering
* Operating digital recording equipment and software

You will also learn universally applicable skills, such as how to:
* Perform captivating interviews
* Conduct effective research
* Write efficiently
* Present and conduct yourself professionally.

These are just three options for school-leaving youngsters who are keen to get into radio, TV or sound engineering. Do some research and find out which course is suited to you.

Sources: www.intec.edu.za; www.damelin.co.za; www.collegesa.co.za