Top 10 Segment Producer Certifications

Certifications are important for a segment producer in the job market because they demonstrate their knowledge and experience in the field. Certifications indicate that the individual has received specialized training in the area of segment production, which can be beneficial when applying for a job. Additionally, certifications help to demonstrate that the individual is well-versed in current industry practices and technologies, which can help them stand out to potential employers. Furthermore, having certifications can make it easier for a segment producer to network with other professionals in their field, as they may already be familiar with the certification requirements.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Segment Producers and explain how they can benefit a segment producer's career.

What are Segment Producer Certifications?

Segment producer certification is a program designed to help media professionals develop the skills necessary to create compelling television segments. The program, offered by the National Association of Television Program Executives (NATPE), provides certification for those who can demonstrate expertise in producing and editing quality video content. The certification provides individuals with the opportunity to gain recognition as a professional in their field and enables them to access exclusive resources, such as job postings and networking events.

The program consists of an online course that covers topics such as pre-production planning, budgeting, scripting, shooting techniques, and post-production editing. Upon completion of the course, participants must pass a comprehensive exam in order to receive their certification.

By becoming certified as a segment producer, individuals are able to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in the industry. This can help them stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs or promotions within media production companies. Additionally, it gives employers assurance that they are hiring someone with an established level of skill and understanding of the industry. Furthermore, having this certification can open up more opportunities for freelance work or independent contracting jobs.

Pro Tip: When pursuing a segment producer certification, make sure to familiarize yourself with the latest industry trends and the newest technology. It’s also important to network with other professionals in the field and stay up-to-date on new developments in the industry. Lastly, be sure to gain hands-on experience as much as possible!

Related: What does a Segment Producer do?

Top 10 Segment Producer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Segment Producers today.

1. Certified Segment Producer (CSP)

A Certified Segment Producer (CSP) is a designation given by the National Association of Television Program Executives (NATPE) to individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and experience in the television industry. The CSP certification program is designed to recognize excellence in the field of television production and provides an opportunity for professionals to demonstrate their expertise.

The CSP certification process consists of two parts: an online exam, which tests knowledge of all aspects of television production, and a portfolio review by NATPE staff. The online exam must be completed within 30 days of registering for the program, and applicants must score at least 75% on the test to pass. After passing the online exam, applicants must submit a portfolio that includes examples of their work in order to be considered for certification. This portfolio should include samples such as scripts, storyboards, budget documents, and other materials related to television production.

The cost for the CSP certification program varies depending on whether you are already a NATPE member or not. For non-members, the cost is $495 USD; for members it is $395 USD. Additionally, there is an ongoing annual maintenance fee required to maintain your CSP status which is currently set at $50 USD per year.

Overall, the entire CSP certification process can take anywhere from 4-6 weeks from start to finish depending on how quickly you complete the online exam and submit your portfolio for review.

2. Certified Digital Segment Producer (CDSP)

Certified Digital Segment Producer (CDSP) is a certification program offered by the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB). It is designed to provide broadcast professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to produce digital content for television, radio, and other media outlets. The program consists of two courses: Digital Production and Digital Distribution. The first course covers topics such as digital production techniques, video editing, audio engineering, and distribution strategies. The second course focuses on digital distribution methods such as streaming services, podcasting, and social media platforms.

The CDSP certification process takes approximately six months to complete. To begin the process, applicants must submit an application form along with a resume and letter of recommendation from a current or former employer. Once accepted into the program, applicants must complete both courses within six months in order to receive their certification.

The cost of the CDSP certification varies depending on the applicant’s educational background and experience level. Generally speaking, it costs between $1,500-$2,000 USD for both courses combined.

Overall, obtaining the Certified Digital Segment Producer certification provides broadcast professionals with a comprehensive understanding of digital production and distribution techniques that are essential for success in today’s media landscape.

3. Certified Broadcast Segment Producer (CBSP)

Certified Broadcast Segment Producer (CBSP) is a certification program that provides broadcast professionals with the skills and knowledge to produce content for television, radio, and digital media. The CBSP certification is offered through the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), which is the largest trade association representing broadcasters in the United States.

The CBSP program consists of three parts: an online course, an on-site workshop, and a final exam. The online course covers topics such as production workflow, scripting and storyboarding, audio recording and editing, video editing, motion graphics, and more. The on-site workshop includes hands-on training from experienced industry professionals in a studio setting. Finally, the final exam tests your understanding of the material covered in both the online course and the on-site workshop.

It typically takes around two months to complete all three parts of the CBSP program. To get started, you must first register for the program through NAB’s website. Registration costs $295 USD plus applicable taxes or fees. Once registered, you will receive access to the online course materials and instructions for scheduling your on-site workshop and final exam.

Once you have completed all three parts of the CBSP program successfully, you will be awarded your certification from NAB. This certification is valid for two years from date of issuance and can be renewed by completing additional training courses or attending workshops offered by NAB or its affiliates.

4. Certified Video Segment Producer (CVSP)

Certified Video Segment Producer (CVSP) is a certification program offered by the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and expertise in the production of professional video segments.

The program consists of two parts: an online assessment and a practical exam. The online assessment covers topics such as video production, editing, post-production, and delivery. The practical exam requires the candidate to produce a video segment from start to finish.

It typically takes around three months to complete the program, depending on how quickly you can complete the online assessment and practical exam. To get started, you must first register for the program at SMPTE's website. Once registered, you will be given access to the online assessment and instructions on how to prepare for the practical exam.

The cost of becoming a Certified Video Segment Producer varies depending on your region and whether or not you are already an SMPTE member. In general, it costs between $200-$400 USD for non-members and $100-$200 USD for members.

5. Certified Audio Segment Producer (CAP)

Certified Audio Segment Producer (CAP) is a certification program created by the Audio Engineering Society (AES). It is designed to recognize and reward audio professionals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in producing audio segments for various media. CAP is intended to provide an objective measure of the skills, knowledge, and experience required to produce quality audio segments.

The certification process consists of two parts: an online exam and a practical assessment. The online exam tests your knowledge of basic audio engineering principles and techniques, as well as your ability to apply them in real-world scenarios. The practical assessment involves creating an original audio segment from start to finish using professional software and equipment.

The entire certification process typically takes about 8 weeks to complete. To get started, you must first register for the program on the AES website. Once registered, you will be given access to study materials and practice exams that will help prepare you for the online exam. After passing the online exam, you will then be able to schedule your practical assessment with an AES-certified instructor or mentor.

The cost of the CAP certification varies depending on the region in which you live, but typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD.

6. Certified Multimedia Segment Producer (CMSP)

Certified Multimedia Segment Producer (CMSP) is a certification offered by the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated an advanced level of knowledge and skill in creating, producing, and delivering multimedia content for television, film, web, mobile devices, and other digital media.

The CMSP certification requires applicants to pass an online exam that tests their knowledge of video production techniques, audio engineering principles, editing software applications, project management skills, and other relevant topics. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete.

To apply for the CMSP certification program you must be at least 18 years old and have a minimum of two years professional experience in the field of multimedia production. You will also need to submit a completed application form along with proof of your professional experience.

The cost for the CMSP certification program is $400 USD. This fee includes access to the online exam as well as one year’s membership in SMPTE.

7. Certified Interactive Media Segment Producer (CIMSP)

Certified Interactive Media Segment Producer (CIMSP) is a certification program that provides training and certification for individuals who produce interactive media content. The CIMSP program is designed to help professionals develop the skills needed to create, manage, and deliver interactive media content. This includes web design, video production, animation, audio engineering, game development, and more.

The CIMSP certification program consists of three levels: Certified Interactive Media Segment Producer (CIMSP), Advanced Certified Interactive Media Segment Producer (ACIMSP), and Master Certified Interactive Media Segment Producer (MCIMSP). Each level requires a different set of knowledge and experience in order to qualify for the certification.

The CIMSP certification can be obtained by completing an online course or attending an in-person workshop. Depending on the type of course chosen, it typically takes between four to six weeks to complete the requirements for the CIMSP certification.

In order to get certified as a CIMSP, applicants must have at least two years of experience working with interactive media content. They must also pass a written exam that covers topics such as web design principles, video production techniques, audio engineering concepts, game development principles, and more.

The cost of getting certified as a CIMSP varies depending on the type of course chosen; however, most courses range from $500-$1,000 USD.

8. Certified Social Media Segment Producer (CSMSP)

A Certified Social Media Segment Producer (CSMSP) is a professional certification that recognizes an individual’s expertise in developing and producing social media segments for broadcast, web, or other digital platforms. The certification is awarded by the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) and requires passing a comprehensive examination.

The CSMSP exam covers topics such as content creation, production techniques, segment development, audience engagement, analytics, and more. It takes approximately three hours to complete the exam. In order to take the exam, applicants must have at least two years of professional experience in creating content for broadcast or digital platforms.

The cost of taking the CSMSP exam varies depending on whether you are an NAB member or not. For non-members, the fee is $395; for members, it is $295. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with registering for the exam and taking it at a testing center.

9. Certified Mobile Content Segment Producer (CMCP)

Certified Mobile Content Segment Producer (CMCP) is a certification program developed by the Mobile Marketing Association (MMA). It is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated expertise in developing and executing effective mobile marketing campaigns. The CMCP certification is awarded to those who have successfully completed a comprehensive training program and passed an exam.

The CMCP training program consists of online modules that cover topics such as mobile marketing strategy, audience segmentation, creative development, targeting, campaign optimization, analytics and reporting. The program typically takes 4-6 weeks to complete depending on the individual's pace.

To get certified as a CMCP, individuals must first register for the training program and pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher. Once they have successfully completed the coursework and passed the exam, they will receive their official CMCP certificate from MMA.

The cost of the CMCP certification varies depending on whether you are an MMA member or non-member. For MMA members, it costs $495 USD; for non-members it costs $995 USD.

10. Certified Live Event Segment Producer (CLEP)

A Certified Live Event Segment Producer (CLEP) is a certification program designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of expertise in producing live events. The CLEP program is administered by the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA).

The CLEP program requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in producing live events, including event planning, budgeting, marketing, and production. Applicants must also demonstrate their ability to manage multiple projects and work with stakeholders. To become certified, applicants must pass an exam that covers the topics outlined in the PCMA’s Live Event Segment Producer Certification Guide.

The exam typically takes about two hours to complete. Once an applicant passes the exam, they will receive a certificate of completion from PCMA. The cost for taking the exam varies depending on where you take it; however, it generally ranges from $150-$300 USD.

In order to maintain certification status, certified producers must participate in continuing education activities every three years as well as pay an annual renewal fee of $50 USD.

Do You Really Need a Segment Producer Certificate?

Whether or not you need a segment producer certificate depends on the type of work you are seeking. If you are looking for a job in television production, then having a segment producer certificate may be beneficial. It can demonstrate your knowledge and experience in the field, as well as show potential employers that you have the skills necessary to succeed in the role.

Having a segment producer certificate can also help open doors to more advanced positions. This is because many employers view certification as an indication that an individual has received specialized training and has met certain standards of performance. This may make them more likely to consider hiring someone who holds such a certificate than someone without it.

Even if you do not need a segment producer certificate for employment purposes, there are still other benefits to obtaining one. Earning this certification can give you an edge over other candidates when applying for jobs, and it can also help increase your confidence and knowledge of the subject matter. Additionally, having this credential may make it easier for you to keep up with new trends in television production and stay current on industry best practices.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a segment producer certificate will depend on your career goals and the type of work that you are seeking. While it is not necessary for all positions, having this credential can be beneficial in many cases and could potentially help open doors to more advanced roles within the industry.

Related: Segment Producer Resume Examples

FAQs About Segment Producer Certifications

1. What is a Segment Producer Certification?

Answer: A Segment Producer Certification is an industry-recognized qualification that demonstrates a producer's ability to create compelling stories and bring them to life through TV, radio, or digital media. It is a comprehensive course of study that covers all aspects of the production process, from research and development to post-production.

2. Who should pursue a Segment Producer Certification?

Answer: Anyone interested in working in the television, radio, or digital media industries should consider pursuing a Segment Producer Certification. It is ideal for those who have some knowledge of production but want to gain more insight into the craft and become more marketable in their field.

3. What are the requirements to obtain a Segment Producer Certification?

Answer: To obtain a Segment Producer Certification, you must complete an accredited program that includes courses such as fundamentals of producing, editing techniques, scriptwriting basics, production management, and legal issues related to media production. Depending on the program you choose, additional courses may also be required.

4. How long does it take to complete a Segment Producer Certification?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to complete a Segment Producer Certification depends on the program you choose and your individual progress rate. Most programs can be completed in 12-18 months if you are taking classes full-time; however, some programs may require up to 24 months if you are taking classes part-time or online.

5. What type of job opportunities will I have with my certification?

Answer: With your certification, you will be qualified for positions such as segment producer/director, assistant producer/director, video editor/editorial assistant, multimedia journalist/reporter/hosts and more across various industries such as broadcast television news networks and web-based producers of original content for digital platforms (e.g., YouTube).