Top 10 Broadcast Technician Certifications

Certifications are important for broadcast technicians in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge that employers look for when hiring. Certified broadcast technicians have proven their proficiency by passing rigorous tests, which demonstrate to potential employers that they can handle complex equipment and techniques. Additionally, certifications help broadcast technicians stand out from other applicants and show employers that they take their profession seriously. Certification also gives broadcast technicians access to more opportunities in the industry, as some employers may only hire certified personnel. Lastly, certification can provide access to higher-paying jobs or promotions with better benefits.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Broadcast Technicians and explains how they can help to advance one's career.

What are Broadcast Technician Certifications?

Broadcast technician certification is a type of certification that is offered to individuals who have completed an approved program of study in the area of broadcast technology. This certification is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work in radio and television broadcasting, satellite communications, and other related fields.

The certification provides evidence that an individual has received formal training in the area of broadcast technology, which can be beneficial when seeking employment or advancement within the industry. It also serves as proof that the student has achieved a certain level of proficiency in their understanding of broadcast technologies, which can help them stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs. Additionally, it can also serve as a way for employers to identify qualified technicians when hiring for open positions.

Having a broadcast technician certification can also be beneficial for those looking to pursue higher education in areas such as engineering or telecommunications. Depending on the institution, having this certification may make it easier for students to gain acceptance into a program and potentially receive credit for courses taken during their program of study.

Overall, having a broadcast technician certification can provide numerous benefits throughout one’s career in the field of broadcasting technology. It can be used as evidence of achievement when applying for jobs and higher education programs, making it easier to stand out from other applicants. Additionally, it serves as an assurance to employers that certified technicians have achieved a certain level of proficiency in their understanding and use of broadcast technologies.

Pro Tip: If you are considering becoming a broadcast technician, make sure to research and pursue the proper certification. Many companies require certification in order to be considered for employment and it can give you a competitive edge.

Related: What does a Broadcast Technician do?

Top 10 Broadcast Technician Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Broadcast Technicians today.

1. Society of Broadcast Engineers (SBE) Certification

The Society of Broadcast Engineers (SBE) Certification is an industry-recognized certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of broadcast engineers. The SBE offers certifications in a variety of areas, including radio, television, audio engineering, video engineering, and IT networking.

It typically takes about two years for someone to become certified by the SBE. To get certified, individuals must complete a series of courses and exams that cover topics such as electronics theory, signal processing, digital systems, and more. After completing the courses and exams, applicants must submit an application to the SBE for review.

The cost of getting certified by the SBE varies depending on which certification you are seeking. Generally speaking, it costs between $200-$400 per exam plus a one-time application fee of $50. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking classes or purchasing study materials.

2. Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE) Certification

The Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE) Certification is an internationally recognized credential that validates the technical knowledge, skills, and competencies of professionals in the motion imaging industry. It is designed to recognize those who demonstrate a mastery of the fundamentals of motion imaging technology and its application to the production, post-production, and distribution of media content.

To obtain SMPTE Certification, applicants must pass a written exam that covers topics such as digital video systems, audio systems, signal transmission, compression techniques, and networking protocols. The exam is administered by proctors at approved testing centers throughout the world. The exam typically takes three hours to complete.

Applicants must also meet certain prerequisites before taking the exam. These include having a minimum of two years’ experience in media technology or completing an approved training program. Applicants must also submit proof of their work experience or training program completion with their application.

The cost for taking the SMPTE Certification exam varies depending on where it is taken. Generally speaking, it costs between $200-$400 USD for applicants in North America and Europe to take the exam. For applicants outside these regions, additional fees may apply due to currency exchange rates and other factors.

In addition to passing the written exam, applicants must also agree to abide by SMPTE’s Code of Ethics in order to receive certification status. This code outlines standards for professional conduct relating to honesty and integrity in all aspects of motion imaging technology work.

3. National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Certified Broadcast Technologist (CBT)

The National Association of Broadcasters Certified Broadcast Technologist (CBT) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to work in the broadcast industry. The CBT is awarded by NAB, the leading trade association for broadcasters in the United States.

This certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge of broadcast technology and operations, including topics such as audio engineering, video engineering, transmission systems, digital media production and distribution, network operations, and more. To obtain this certification, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam that covers all aspects of broadcast technology and operations.

The CBT certification exam takes approximately three hours to complete. It consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics related to broadcast technology and operations.

To apply for the CBT certification exam, applicants must first submit an application form along with an application fee of $175 USD. Once approved by NAB, applicants will receive an email with instructions on how to register for the exam. After passing the exam, applicants will be awarded their CBT certificate from NAB.

Overall, obtaining the National Association of Broadcasters Certified Broadcast Technologist (CBT) certification requires a commitment of time and money but can open up many opportunities in the broadcast industry.

4. CompTIA A+ Certification

CompTIA A+ Certification is an industry-recognized certification that validates the knowledge and skills of entry-level IT professionals. It is a vendor-neutral certification that covers the fundamentals of computer technology, installation and configuration of PCs, laptops, mobile devices, operating systems, printers and troubleshooting hardware and software issues.

It typically takes around 60 hours to prepare for the CompTIA A+ exam. The exam consists of two parts: Core 1 (220-1001) and Core 2 (220-1002). Both exams must be passed in order to become certified.

In order to get CompTIA A+ Certification, you must pass both exams within one year of each other. You can take the exams at any authorized testing center or online through Pearson VUE.

The cost to take the CompTIA A+ exam varies depending on which version you choose. The standard version costs $226 USD per exam while the performance-based version costs $319 USD per exam.

5. CompTIA Network+ Certification

CompTIA Network+ Certification is an industry-recognized certification for IT professionals that validates the knowledge and skills necessary to manage, maintain, troubleshoot, install, and configure basic network infrastructure. It is a vendor-neutral certification that covers topics such as networking technologies, installation and configuration, media and topologies, security, and network troubleshooting.

The CompTIA Network+ certification exam typically takes about 90 minutes to complete and consists of 90 multiple choice questions. In order to pass the exam, you must score at least 720 out of 900 points.

To get CompTIA Network+ certified, you must first register with CompTIA for the exam. You can do this online or through a local testing center. Once registered, you will need to prepare for the exam by studying topics covered in the syllabus and taking practice tests.

The cost of the CompTIA Network+ certification exam varies depending on your country of residence but typically ranges from $200-$300 USD.

6. Avid Certified Professional Certification

Avid Certified Professional (ACP) Certification is an industry-recognized certification program designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a level of proficiency in Avid’s professional video editing and production software. The ACP certification is available for three levels of expertise: Avid Certified User, Avid Certified Associate, and Avid Certified Professional.

The Avid Certified User certification is the entry-level certification that validates a user’s knowledge of the basic features and functions of the Avid software. This certification can be obtained by taking an online exam that tests your understanding of the basics. The exam takes approximately one hour to complete and costs $99 USD.

The Avid Certified Associate certification is for users who want to demonstrate their advanced skills with the Avid software. This certification requires passing an online exam that tests your knowledge of more advanced features and functions. The exam takes approximately two hours to complete and costs $199 USD.

The highest level of certification is the Avid Certified Professional, which is designed for professionals who are experts in the use of the Avid software. To obtain this certification, you must pass two exams: one on advanced topics such as media management, effects, audio mixing, etc., and another on troubleshooting techniques used to solve complex problems within the software. These exams take approximately four hours each to complete and cost $299 USD each.

In addition to passing these exams, you must also meet certain experience requirements in order to become an ACP certified professional. You must have at least 12 months of experience working with either Media Composer or Pro Tools HD systems in a professional environment or have completed a recognized training program related to either system within the past 24 months prior to taking the exams.

Once you have passed all three exams and met all other requirements, you will receive your official ACP certificate from Avid Technology Inc., along with recognition on their website as an officially certified professional user of their products.

7. Adobe Certified Expert (ACE) Program

The Adobe Certified Expert (ACE) Program is an official certification program from Adobe that recognizes individuals who demonstrate a high level of proficiency in the use of Adobe products. It is designed to validate the skills and knowledge of professionals who design, develop, and maintain solutions using Adobe products.

To become an ACE, you must pass one or more exams that cover specific Adobe products. The length of time it takes to get certified depends on your familiarity with the product and how much time you put into studying for the exam. Generally, it should take between 2-4 weeks to prepare for the exam depending on your experience level.

In order to get certified, you must purchase an exam voucher from Adobe. The cost of the voucher varies depending on which product you are certifying for, but typically ranges from $150-$250 USD.

Once you have purchased a voucher, you can register for the exam at Pearson VUE's website and select a date and time to take it. You will need to answer 75-80 multiple choice questions in two hours or less and score at least 70% in order to pass the exam and become an ACE.

8. Apple Certified Pro - Final Cut Pro X

Apple Certified Pro - Final Cut Pro X is an Apple certification program that allows professionals to demonstrate their expertise in using the industry-leading video editing software, Final Cut Pro X. This certification is for video editors who want to prove their skills and stand out from the competition.

The certification process involves taking an online exam that covers topics like importing media, creating a project, editing footage, adding effects and titles, as well as exporting and sharing projects. The exam has 60 questions with a time limit of 90 minutes. To pass the exam, you must score at least 80%.

It typically takes about two weeks to receive your results after taking the exam. If you pass the exam, you will receive an email with a link to your digital certificate which can be printed or shared on social media.

The cost of the Apple Certified Pro - Final Cut Pro X certification is $199 USD. This fee includes access to the online exam and your digital certificate upon passing.

9. Audio Engineering Society (AES) Certificate Program

The Audio Engineering Society (AES) Certificate Program is an internationally recognized program designed to provide professional education and training in the field of audio engineering. The program consists of three levels: Certified Audio Engineer (CAE), Certified Professional Audio Engineer (CPAE), and Certified Master Audio Engineer (CMAE). Each level requires a different number of courses and exams, as well as a minimum amount of experience in the field.

The CAE is the first level of certification, which requires completion of four courses and two exams. This certification typically takes around six months to complete, depending on the student's prior knowledge and experience. The cost for this certificate is approximately $1,000 USD.

The CPAE is the second level of certification, which requires completion of eight courses and three exams. This certification typically takes around one year to complete, depending on the student's prior knowledge and experience. The cost for this certificate is approximately $2,500 USD.

The CMAE is the highest level of certification, which requires completion of twelve courses and four exams. This certification typically takes around two years to complete, depending on the student's prior knowledge and experience. The cost for this certificate is approximately $5,000 USD.

To get any one of these certificates from AES, students must first apply online through their website or by mail with all required documents including transcripts from previous educational institutions or proof of relevant work experience in audio engineering. After submitting their application materials, students will be contacted by AES for an interview with an AES representative who will assess their qualifications for each level based on their background information provided in the application form. Once accepted into the program, students can then enroll in classes offered by AES or other accredited institutions that offer audio engineering coursework approved by AES. Upon successful completion of all required coursework and examinations within a certain timeframe set by AES, students will receive their certificates from AES directly upon passing all requirements successfully without any additional fees or charges apart from those already paid during enrollment into the program itself.

10. Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers (SCTE) Certifications

The Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers (SCTE) is a professional organization dedicated to providing training and certification for professionals working in the cable telecommunications industry. SCTE certifications are designed to recognize the knowledge, skills, and abilities of individuals in various areas of the cable telecommunications industry.

SCTE offers several different certifications, including: Certified Cable Technician (CCT), Certified Network Technician (CNT), Certified Data Communications Technician (CDCT), and Certified Video Professional (CVP). Each certification requires a certain level of experience and education in order to qualify.

In order to obtain an SCTE certification, applicants must first pass a written exam that covers topics related to their chosen specialty. The exams are administered by Pearson VUE and cost $125 each. Once the exam is passed, applicants must then complete an online application form with supporting documentation such as proof of experience or education. After submitting the application form, applicants will be notified if they have been approved for certification within two weeks.

The cost of obtaining an SCTE certification varies depending on which certification you are seeking. Generally speaking, CCT costs $250; CNT costs $350; CDCT costs $450; and CVP costs $550. In addition to these fees, there may also be additional fees associated with taking the written exam or renewing your certification every three years.

Do You Really Need a Broadcast Technician Certificate?

When it comes to pursuing any career, a certificate or degree may be necessary in order to show potential employers you have the skills and knowledge required to do the job. A broadcast technician certificate is no exception. If you want to become a broadcast technician, having a certificate can be extremely beneficial.

Having a broadcast technician certificate shows employers that you are committed to your chosen career and have the knowledge and skills necessary for the position. This certification demonstrates that you not only understand the technical aspects of broadcasting but that you also understand the principles behind it. It also shows employers that you have been trained in safety protocols, equipment maintenance and troubleshooting techniques. With this certification, employers can trust that you are knowledgeable about all aspects of broadcasting and will be able to handle any situation that may arise on set or on location.

In addition to demonstrating your commitment to broadcasting, having a broadcast technician certificate can also help open doors for future employment opportunities. Many employers prefer hiring people who already have experience in the field, which means having a broadcast technician certificate can give you an edge over other applicants who don’t have one. Having this certification may even make it easier for you to find internships or entry-level jobs in broadcasting since many companies are looking for candidates with specific qualifications before they consider hiring them.

Overall, getting a broadcast technician certificate is an important step if you want to pursue a career as a broadcast technician. Not only does it show employers that you are dedicated and knowledgeable about broadcasting but it can also open up more job opportunities for you in the future.

Related: Broadcast Technician Resume Examples

FAQs About Broadcast Technician Certifications

1. What certifications do I need to become a broadcast technician?

A: To become a broadcast technician, you will need to obtain a certification in audio engineering, video production, or broadcasting technology. Many employers also prefer applicants with experience in related fields such as computer networking, electronics, or digital media.

2. How long does it take to get certified as a broadcast technician?

A: It can take anywhere from six months to two years to become certified as a broadcast technician depending on the type of certification you pursue and the amount of time you are willing to dedicate to studying and training.

3. Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified as a broadcast technician?

A: Depending on the type of certification you pursue, there may be certain prerequisites that must be met before beginning the certification process. In general, these can include having at least one year of experience in the field and passing an exam or completing courses related to broadcasting technology.

4. Where can I find information about broadcast technician certifications?

A: You can find information about broadcast technician certifications through professional organizations such as the Society of Broadcast Engineers (SBE), online course providers like Udemy or Coursera, and local trade schools that offer programs related to broadcasting technology.

5. What are the benefits of obtaining a certification in broadcast technology?

A: Obtaining a certification in broadcast technology can open up many different career opportunities for those interested in working with media systems and equipment used for television broadcasts and radio shows. A certification also demonstrates your knowledge and skills in this field which will help you stand out when applying for jobs or promotions within the industry.