Career roadmap
How to Become a Broadcast Announcer
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a broadcast announcer, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a broadcast announcer: (1) earn a communications degree, (2) work at college radio, (3) intern at a station, (4) get on-air shifts, (5) advance. Most people need about Degree plus station experience. BLS lists “bachelor's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a broadcast announcer
Earn a communications degree
Or broadcasting.
Work at college radio
Experience.
Intern at a station
Experience.
Get on-air shifts
Start.
Advance
Bigger markets.
Education and training requirements
A bachelor’s degree in communications or broadcasting is typical.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | Degree plus station experience |
Certifications and licenses
- Broadcasting degree: Communications.
- FCC rules knowledge: Required.
- Voice training: Helpful.
- Podcast production training: Helpful.
Skills to build now
Start with voice delivery, scriptwriting, and interviewing, and practice personality and quick thinking. Learning the broadcast announcer vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Board Operator: Entry.
- Part-Time Host: On air.
- Full-Time Host: Own shift.
- Program Director: Lead station.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Broadcast Announcer training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do I need a degree?
BLS lists a bachelor’s as typical.
How long does it take to become a broadcast announcer?
Most people need about Degree plus station experience of training. A bachelor’s degree in communications or broadcasting is typical.
Do you need a degree to be a broadcast announcer?
Usually, yes. BLS lists a bachelor's degree as the typical entry-level education, although skills, certifications and experience can sometimes substitute.
What certifications are available for broadcast announcers?
Common credentials include Broadcasting degree, FCC rules knowledge, Voice training, and Podcast production training. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 27-3011 (Broadcast announcers and radio disc jockeys).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Broadcast announcers and radio disc jockeys (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.