Mass Media Careers

Television

• Major networks
• Local commercial television stations
• Public television stations
• Cable television
• Private production companies
• Government
• Business corporations

• Participate in campus media including student television and cable stations.
• Seek part-time or volunteer opportunities with independent production companies.
• Complete practicums at local television stations and internships at local or national TV stations, networks, or cable systems.
• Join student broadcasting organizations.
• Develop excellent writing, reporting, researching, and editing skills.
• Volunteer to announce sporting events on campus or at local high schools.
• Consider taking courses in political science, economics, sociology, or any applicable field for news broadcasting careers.
• Read trade publications.
• Be willing to start in smaller markets and work your way up the ladder. Professionals often move frequently for career advancement.
• A greater number of opportunities exist in larger cities.

Radio

• National networks
• National public radio
• Digital stations
• State or regional networks
• Major, medium, and small market stations
• Local commercial stations and groups

• Work at the student radio station. Join radio or music organizations on campus.
• Complete an internship at a station.
• Announce sporting events for your university.
• Host music programming for parties and social events.
• Coordinate, program, and promote musical events.
• Gain performance experience through music, drama, or public speaking.
• Create a demonstration tape to be used as a sample of vocal and speaking talent.
• Enhance public speaking skills by practicing with a handheld recorder.
• Radio job markets are known to fluctuate, be prepared to weather the changes.

Internet

• internet based companies, e.g., Yahoo or Google
• Companies specializing in webcasting services and technology
• Businesses in a variety of industries
• Colleges and universities
• Nonprofit organizations

• Gain expertise in computer and internet technology.
• Learn how to design websites.
• Become familiar with a variety of languages and software packages on various platforms.
• Seek certifications in networking, website design, or related areas.
• Volunteer to create or maintain websites for student organizations or local nonprofits.
• Assist in campus webcasts if possible.

Video Production

• Freelance or private video production companies or videographers
• Large corporations
• Universities and colleges
• Post-production companies
• Professional associations
• Non-profit organizations

• Obtain entrepreneurial knowledge and experience through starting a small business or taking business courses.
• Volunteer to do video editing/production for campus videographers or television stations.
• Gain contacts in the specific industry of interest (e.g. develop relationships with wedding photographers in order to build wedding videography business).
• Enter video contests.
• Cultivate artistic talents.

Education

• Colleges and universities
• Technical schools
• Public and private high schools

• Obtain a PhD for college and university teaching opportunities.
• Obtain state teacher certification for high school teaching opportunities. You will need certification to teach additional subjects such as foreign languages, English, theater, social studies, or art.
• Volunteer to assist local high school students with productions.
• Actively participate in campus radio, television, or theatrical organizations.