Top 11 Multimedia Journalist Certifications

Certifications for multimedia journalists are important in the job market because they demonstrate proficiency in a variety of skills and knowledge related to multimedia journalism. These certifications show employers that an individual has received specialized training in the field, and is qualified to carry out complex tasks such as editing video, creating graphics, and managing digital content. Additionally, certifications give potential employers assurance that the journalist is familiar with industry-standard software and technologies. Finally, certifications provide evidence of commitment to professional development, which can set an individual apart from other applicants when looking for employment.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Multimedia Journalists and explains how they can help to advance a multimedia journalist's career.

What are Multimedia Journalist Certifications?

Multimedia journalist certification is a professional credential that is designed to help journalists and media professionals gain the skills and knowledge needed to create multimedia content. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices involved in creating effective multimedia stories, from audio, video, and photography to data visualization and interactive storytelling. With this certification, journalists can demonstrate their ability to produce content for multiple platforms and become more competitive in the job market.

The certification program includes courses that cover topics such as digital production techniques, audio editing, video editing, photojournalism, web development, graphic design, social media management, HTML coding, search engine optimization (SEO), data journalism and more. Through these courses, journalists gain a better understanding of how to use technology to create engaging multimedia stories that are optimized for different platforms. They also learn how to effectively manage digital assets so their stories are accessible on any device or platform.

By obtaining a multimedia journalist certification, journalists can build their portfolios by showcasing the projects they have created during the course of the program. This will make them more attractive to employers looking for individuals with specialized skills in multimedia creation. Additionally, having this certification may give them access to higher-level positions in media organizations as well as open up opportunities for freelance work or other independent projects.

Pro Tip: If you are interested in becoming a multimedia journalist, consider earning certification. Many organizations offer certifications that provide recognition and validation of your skills. Certification not only demonstrates your knowledge and expertise, but can also open up new opportunities for career advancement.

Related: What does a Multimedia Journalist do?

Top 11 Multimedia Journalist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Multimedia Journalists today.

1. National Press Photographers Association (NPPA) Certification

The National Press Photographers Association (NPPA) Certification is a program designed to recognize professional photographers who have achieved a high level of expertise in their field. The certification is awarded to those who demonstrate a mastery of the technical and creative aspects of photography, as well as an understanding of the ethical and legal issues involved in the profession.

It typically takes two years to complete the NPPA Certification process. During this time, applicants must complete a series of courses related to photography, including topics such as lighting, composition, digital imaging, and photojournalism. Applicants must also submit a portfolio of their work for review by a panel of NPPA judges. Upon successful completion of these requirements, applicants receive an official certificate from the NPPA certifying them as professional photographers.

To get started with the NPPA Certification process, applicants must first become members of the organization by paying an annual membership fee. This fee varies depending on whether you are applying as an individual or as part of a group. After becoming a member, applicants can then register for courses offered by the NPPA or other accredited institutions that meet the criteria for certification.

The cost for completing the NPPA Certification process varies depending on how many courses you take and which institution you choose to complete your studies at. Generally speaking, it is estimated that it will cost between $1,000-$2,500 USD to complete all requirements for certification.

2. Radio and Television Digital News Association (RTDNA) Certification

The Radio and Television Digital News Association (RTDNA) Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes excellence in digital news reporting. The RTDNA Certification is designed to recognize the highest standards of digital journalism, including accuracy, fairness, objectivity, and ethics. The program is open to all journalists working in radio, television, online media, and other digital platforms.

In order to receive the RTDNA Certification, applicants must demonstrate their knowledge of digital news reporting through a series of tests and assessments. The process typically takes between three and six months to complete. To get started with the RTDNA Certification process, applicants must first submit an application and provide proof of their experience in digital news reporting. Once approved for the program, applicants will be required to take a series of online exams that cover topics such as writing for digital media, multimedia storytelling techniques, social media best practices, data journalism principles, legal considerations for digital journalists, and more.

The cost of the RTDNA Certification varies depending on the level of certification sought by the applicant. For example, basic certification costs $250 USD while advanced certification costs $500 USD. Additionally, there are additional fees associated with taking the exams which range from $30-$50 USD per exam.

3. Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) Certification

The Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) Certification is an online program designed to help journalists advance their skills and knowledge in the field. It is a self-paced course that consists of eight modules, each focusing on a different aspect of journalism. The modules cover topics such as ethical decision making, news gathering and reporting, interviewing techniques, multimedia storytelling, and more. The program takes approximately six months to complete and requires participants to pass a final exam with a score of 70% or higher.

To get SPJ Certification, individuals must first become members of the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ). Membership costs $75 for professionals and $35 for students. Once membership is secured, applicants can register for the certification program through the SPJ website. The cost for the program is $375 for professionals and $175 for students.

Once registered, participants have access to all eight modules which can be completed at their own pace within six months. Upon completion of all eight modules, participants must take an online final exam which they must pass with a score of 70% or higher in order to receive their certification.

Upon successful completion of the program, individuals will receive an official certificate from SPJ as well as recognition on their profile page on the SPJ website. They will also be eligible to use the “Certified Journalist” designation after their name when applicable.

4. Online News Association (ONA) Certification

Online News Association (ONA) Certification is a program designed to recognize and reward digital journalists for their commitment to excellence in online journalism. It is an international certification that recognizes the highest standards of online news production, including accuracy, ethics, and innovation.

The certification process typically takes about 2-3 months to complete. To get certified, applicants must first submit a portfolio of their work along with a resume and cover letter. Once accepted into the program, applicants must then take an online test that covers topics such as accuracy, ethics, and innovation in digital journalism. After passing the test, applicants will be awarded their ONA Certification.

The cost of the ONA Certification program varies depending on the type of membership you have with ONA. For individuals who are not members of ONA, the fee is $200 USD; however, members receive a discounted rate of $100 USD.

5. International Academy of Web Television (IAWTV) Certification

The International Academy of Web Television (IAWTV) Certification is a program designed to recognize and reward excellence in web television. It is an online certification program that provides web television professionals with an official recognition of their skills, experience, and knowledge. The certification process includes an online assessment and a written exam.

To get the IAWTV Certification, applicants must first complete the online assessment. This assessment is designed to evaluate the applicant's knowledge of web television production, including technical aspects such as video editing, audio engineering, and scripting. After completing the assessment, applicants must then pass a written exam that covers topics such as production techniques, marketing strategies, business models for web television shows, and more.

Once both parts are completed successfully, applicants will receive their IAWTV Certification. The certification is valid for two years and can be renewed by taking the same assessment and exam again after two years have passed.

The cost of getting the IAWTV Certification varies depending on where you live. In most cases it costs around $100 USD to take the assessment and written exam.

6. Associated Press Media Editors (APME) Certification

The Associated Press Media Editors (APME) Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates a commitment to excellence in the field of media editing. The certification is designed for editors who have demonstrated the highest levels of proficiency in their craft, and it provides an opportunity for these professionals to demonstrate their skills and knowledge to employers, peers, and the public.

The APME Certification consists of three components: a written exam, an oral exam, and a portfolio review. The written exam covers topics such as grammar, punctuation, style, news judgment, headline writing and copyediting. The oral exam tests the candidate’s ability to discuss editorial decisions with colleagues. The portfolio review evaluates the editor’s work product over the past two years.

The entire process typically takes between six months and one year to complete. To get started on the path towards certification, applicants must first submit an application form and fee ($100). Once approved by APME staff, applicants will receive instructions on how to register for the exams. After completing all three components of the certification process successfully, candidates will be awarded their APME Certification.

The cost of obtaining this certification varies depending on whether or not you are already an APME member. For non-members, there is an additional $50 fee for each component of the certification process (written exam $50; oral exam $50; portfolio review $50).

7. National Association of Broadcasters Education Foundation (NABEF) Certification

The National Association of Broadcasters Education Foundation (NABEF) Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in the radio and television broadcasting industry. It is designed for those who are interested in pursuing a career in broadcasting, as well as those already working in the field.

To receive NABEF Certification, applicants must complete a series of courses covering topics such as broadcast law, media ethics, digital content production, and more. The courses are offered online through NABEF’s partner schools or through self-study materials. Applicants must also pass an exam to demonstrate their mastery of the material covered in the courses.

The entire process typically takes between four and six months to complete depending on how much time an applicant can dedicate to studying each week.

Applicants can apply for NABEF Certification by submitting an application form along with proof of completion of all required coursework and payment of the applicable fee. The fee for NABEF Certification varies depending on whether you are applying for individual certification or group certification. For individual certification, the fee is $150 USD; for group certification, the fee is $750 USD per person.

In addition to demonstrating mastery of broadcast industry topics, applicants must also meet certain eligibility requirements to be considered for NABEF Certification. These include having at least two years of experience in radio or television broadcasting, being currently employed in broadcasting or related fields, and having a high school diploma or equivalent degree.

8. Broadcast Education Association (BEA) Certification

The Broadcast Education Association (BEA) Certification is a professional credential that is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of broadcast media. This certification is offered to those who have achieved a certain level of knowledge and experience in the areas of broadcasting, audio production, video production, and multimedia technology.

The BEA Certification requires applicants to complete an online application and submit their resume and portfolio for review by a committee of industry professionals. The application process typically takes around two weeks to complete. Once approved, applicants must take an online exam that covers topics related to broadcasting, audio production, video production, and multimedia technology. The exam typically takes around two hours to complete.

Once the exam has been completed successfully, applicants will receive their BEA Certification within four weeks. The cost for the certification is $150 USD.

In order to maintain their certification status, individuals must renew it every three years by completing continuing education courses or attending professional development seminars related to broadcasting and multimedia technology.

9. National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) Certification

The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) Certification is a professional credential that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and experience in the television industry. It is designed to recognize those who have achieved a certain level of excellence in their field, and it can be used as an indicator of competency for potential employers.

In order to receive NATAS Certification, applicants must first complete an online application. The application includes questions about the applicant’s work experience, education, and other qualifications related to the television industry. Once the application has been submitted, applicants will then be invited to take a written examination. This exam covers topics such as broadcast technology, media production, and television history.

The exam typically takes three hours to complete and must be passed with at least 80% accuracy in order to receive certification. After passing the exam, applicants will then be required to submit additional documentation including proof of professional experience or education in the television industry. Once all documents are submitted and approved by NATAS, applicants will then receive their certification within 4-6 weeks.

The cost for NATAS Certification varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of NATAS. For non-members, the cost is $150 USD; for members it is $100 USD.

10. International Documentary Association (IDA) Certification

The International Documentary Association (IDA) Certification is an accreditation program that recognizes documentary filmmakers who have reached a certain level of professional accomplishment. The certification is awarded to filmmakers who demonstrate a commitment to the craft and have achieved a level of success in the industry.

To receive IDA Certification, applicants must meet specific criteria, including having at least five years of professional experience in documentary filmmaking and having produced or directed at least three projects that have been released publicly. Applicants must also submit a portfolio of their work for review by the IDA Certification Committee.

The application process typically takes two to three months to complete. Once approved, applicants will receive their IDA Certification along with an official certificate and ID badge.

The cost for applying for IDA Certification varies depending on the applicant's experience and type of project they are submitting for review. Generally, the fee ranges from $50 to $200 USD, although discounts may be available for student applicants or those who are members of the IDA.

11. National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences (NARAS) Certification

The National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences (NARAS) is a non-profit organization that was founded in 1957 to promote excellence in the recording arts. It is best known for its Grammy Awards, which recognize outstanding achievement in music and audio production. NARAS also provides certification for professionals in the recording industry, such as producers, engineers, songwriters, and mastering engineers.

Certification from NARAS requires applicants to pass an exam that tests their knowledge of the recording arts. The exam covers topics such as sound engineering principles, audio production techniques, and music theory. Applicants must also submit a portfolio of their work to demonstrate their experience and expertise.

The process typically takes 6-12 months to complete depending on the applicant's experience level and how quickly they can complete the necessary steps. To get certified by NARAS, applicants must first apply online or by mail with a $100 application fee. Once accepted into the program, applicants must then take an online or in-person exam at one of NARAS’s testing centers around the world. After passing the exam with a score of 80% or higher, applicants will be awarded with a certificate of completion from NARAS.

The cost for certification varies depending on what type of certification is being sought after and whether or not an applicant has previously taken any courses related to audio engineering or music production. Generally speaking though, it costs between $200-$500 USD for certification through NARAS.

Do You Really Need a Multimedia Journalist Certificate?

In today's competitive media industry, having a multimedia journalist certificate can be beneficial to your career. With the increasing demand for journalists who are proficient in various forms of digital media, such as video, audio, and web content, having a multimedia journalist certificate can help you stand out from the crowd and demonstrate your commitment to excellence.

Having a multimedia journalist certificate shows employers that you have taken the time to learn the necessary skills needed to produce quality pieces of work. This includes how to operate editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro X; how to create graphics using software such as Photoshop or Illustrator; and how to write compelling stories for both print and digital platforms. Additionally, having a multimedia journalist certificate demonstrates that you are knowledgeable about current trends in the media industry and have an understanding of different types of digital media. This can give employers confidence when hiring you for their projects.

Moreover, having a multimedia journalist certification indicates that you are familiar with best practices for producing content across multiple platforms and formats. You will be able to show employers that you understand the importance of maintaining consistency across all mediums when creating content. This is especially important if you are working with clients who need content tailored specifically for their needs.

Finally, having a multimedia journalist certificate gives you an edge over other applicants because it proves that you have taken the initiative to gain additional skills related to your profession. It shows potential employers that not only do you have experience in traditional journalism but also a willingness to stay up-to-date with modern technologies used in the field. Having this knowledge will make it easier for them to trust your ability when working on their projects.

In conclusion, getting a multimedia journalist certificate is highly recommended if you want to pursue a career in journalism or any related field involving digital media production and publishing. Not only does it show potential employers that you are serious about developing your skillset but also demonstrates that you understand the importance of staying current with technology advancements in order to produce high-quality work on multiple platforms.

Related: Multimedia Journalist Resume Examples

FAQs About Multimedia Journalist Certifications

1. What is a Multimedia Journalist Certification?

Answer: A Multimedia Journalist Certification is a certification that recognizes the skills and abilities of professionals in the field of news and journalism. It certifies that the individual has expertise in creating, editing, and producing multimedia content for broadcast, print, digital, or online media.

2. How do I become a certified Multimedia Journalist?

Answer: To become certified as a Multimedia Journalist, you must complete an accredited program that provides training in areas such as writing, interviewing, video production, audio production, photography, and more. Additionally, you may need to pass an exam to prove your proficiency in these areas.

3. What are the benefits of having a Multimedia Journalist Certification?

Answer: Having a Multimedia Journalist Certification can help you stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs in the media industry. Additionally, it can open doors to higher-level positions and better pay rates due to your specialized knowledge and skillset.

4. What type of jobs can I get with a Multimedia Journalist Certification?

Answer: With a Multimedia Journalist Certification, you will be qualified for jobs such as broadcast news producer or reporter; digital content editor; social media manager; online journalist; video journalist; audio engineer; multimedia project manager; photographer; and many more related positions.

5. Is there any way to maintain my Multimedia Journalist Certification?

Answer: Yes! You can maintain your certification by taking continuing education courses or attending workshops related to multimedia journalism. Additionally, staying up-to-date on industry trends and developments is also important for maintaining your certification status.