Top 11 Television Producer Certifications

Certifications are important for a television producer in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge in the field that employers look for. Certifications can also help differentiate one professional from another, as there are often many applicants for each position. Additionally, certifications may open up opportunities to network with other industry professionals and gain access to resources and information that could potentially lead to more job prospects. Finally, certifications provide an additional validation of skills and abilities that can boost the confidence of producers when applying for jobs.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Television Producers and explains how they can help to advance a television producer's career.

What are Television Producer Certifications?

Television producer certification is a professional credential that is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and experience in the field of television production. The certification typically requires applicants to have at least three years of experience in the industry, as well as to pass an exam administered by a recognized organization or institution.

Having this certification can be beneficial for several reasons. It can demonstrate the applicant's level of expertise and commitment to their craft, and can also serve as an indicator of their ability to handle complex tasks and lead successful productions. The certification can also help employers assess potential hires more accurately, and may give applicants an edge over other job seekers. Finally, having this certification may open up new opportunities for advancement within the television industry, allowing individuals to progress into higher-level positions and increase their earning potential.

Pro Tip: Research television producer certification programs in your area to ensure that you have the proper credentials and qualifications to become a successful television producer. Make sure to review the program's curriculum, requirements, and cost before enrolling. Additionally, consider joining professional organizations such as the National Association of Television Producers and Executives (NATPE) or the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (ATAS). These organizations can provide invaluable resources and networking opportunities for those looking to break into the industry.

Related: What does a Television Producer do?

Top 11 Television Producer Certifications

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

1. Television Production Certification from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS)

The National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS) offers a Television Production Certification program for individuals who wish to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the field of television production. The certification is designed to provide recognition for those who have achieved a level of expertise in the areas of video production, editing, audio engineering, and other related disciplines.

The certification process involves passing an exam that covers topics such as video production techniques, digital media formats, audio engineering principles, and post-production workflow. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and requires a minimum score of 70% to pass. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their certification from NATAS.

The exam can be taken at any time but typically takes between two and three hours to complete. Applicants must register with NATAS prior to taking the exam and pay a fee which varies depending on the type of certification being sought. For example, a basic television production certification costs $250 while a more advanced certification may cost up to $500.

Once certified, individuals can use their credentials to demonstrate their professional qualifications when applying for jobs or seeking promotions within the television industry. They may also use it as evidence when negotiating salaries or other benefits with employers.

2. Certified Television Producer from the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB)

The Certified Television Producer (CTP) program from the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) is a professional certification program that recognizes television professionals who have demonstrated their knowledge and experience in producing television content. The CTP program provides an industry-wide standard for measuring the capabilities of television producers. It also serves as a valuable tool for employers to assess potential hires and to recognize existing employees.

The CTP certification requires applicants to pass an online examination that covers topics such as production planning, budgeting, scheduling, directing, editing, and post-production. The exam consists of 100 multiple choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

In order to be eligible for the CTP certification, applicants must have at least three years of experience in television production or related fields. Applicants must also provide proof of their work experience by submitting a resume or portfolio detailing their relevant job history.

The cost of the CTP certification is $250 USD. This fee includes access to the online exam and one year of membership in the NAB Professional Certification Program. Once certified, members are required to renew their membership annually in order to maintain their certification status.

3. Professional Certificate in Television Production from the International Academy of Film and Television (IAFT)

The Professional Certificate in Television Production from the International Academy of Film and Television (IAFT) is a comprehensive program designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to become successful television producers. The program covers all aspects of television production, including pre-production, production, post-production, and distribution.

The program takes approximately nine months to complete. During this time, students will learn about the fundamentals of television production, including writing for television, directing for television, producing for television, editing for television, and marketing for television. Students will also gain hands-on experience with real-world projects throughout the course.

To get this certificate, students must first apply to IAFT and be accepted into their program. Once accepted into the program, students will take a series of courses that cover all aspects of television production. Upon completion of these courses, students will then take an exam which they must pass in order to receive their certificate.

The cost of the Professional Certificate in Television Production from IAFT varies depending on where you are located and how long it takes you to complete the program. In general, however, it typically costs around $3,000 USD.

4. Certified Broadcast Producer from the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE)

The Certified Broadcast Producer (CBP) from the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of broadcast production. The CBP credential is designed to demonstrate an individual's knowledge, skills, and abilities in the areas of broadcast production, including pre-production, production, post-production, and distribution.

The CBP program consists of three parts: an online exam, a practical project assessment, and an oral board review. The online exam covers topics such as broadcast standards and practices, project management techniques, audio/video technology basics, digital media workflows, and legal aspects of broadcasting. The practical project assessment requires applicants to submit a portfolio demonstrating their ability to plan and execute a broadcast production project. Finally, applicants must pass an oral board review conducted by experienced professionals in the field.

To become certified as a CBP requires approximately six months to complete all three parts of the program. Applicants should expect to spend at least 40 hours studying for the online exam and completing the practical project assessment.

The cost of becoming certified as a CBP is $250 USD for SMPTE members or $500 USD for non-members. This fee includes access to study materials for the online exam as well as administrative costs associated with conducting the oral board review.

5. Certified Digital Video Producer from the Digital Media Professionals Association (DMPA)

The Certified Digital Video Producer (CDVP) from the Digital Media Professionals Association (DMPA) is a professional certification designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated advanced knowledge and skills in digital video production. This certification is intended for professionals who are involved in all aspects of digital video production, including pre-production, production, post-production, and distribution.

To become certified as a CDVP, you must complete the DMPA's online coursework and pass the associated exams. The coursework consists of seven modules that cover topics such as digital video fundamentals, camera operations, lighting techniques, editing software, audio recording and mixing, motion graphics and visual effects, and distribution. Each module requires approximately three hours to complete. After completing the coursework and passing the exams with a score of 70% or higher, you will be eligible to receive your CDVP certification.

The cost for the CDVP certification program is $299 USD. This fee includes access to all seven modules of coursework as well as two attempts at each exam. Once you have successfully completed the program and received your certification, you will also be given access to an exclusive members-only forum where you can network with other certified professionals and stay up-to-date on industry trends.

6. Certified Video Producer from the American Film Institute (AFI)

The Certified Video Producer (CVP) from the American Film Institute (AFI) is a professional certification program designed to recognize excellence in the field of video production. The CVP credential is awarded to professionals who demonstrate a mastery of the craft and business of producing video content.

To qualify for the CVP certification, applicants must have at least three years of professional experience in the field, along with a portfolio that demonstrates their skills and knowledge in producing video content. They must also pass an online exam covering topics such as budgeting, scheduling, pre-production planning, post-production workflow, and distribution strategies.

The certification process typically takes about six months from start to finish. Applicants must submit an application form, provide proof of their professional experience and portfolio materials, complete an online exam, and pay the associated fees.

The cost for obtaining the CVP certification varies depending on whether you are a member of AFI or not. For non-members, it costs $600 plus applicable taxes; for members, it costs $500 plus applicable taxes.

7. Certified Video Editor from the Hollywood Professional Association (HPA)

The Certified Video Editor from the Hollywood Professional Association (HPA) is a certification program designed to recognize the skills and knowledge of professional video editors. This certification is intended to demonstrate that an editor has mastered the technical, creative and organizational skills necessary to produce high-quality, professional video projects.

In order to become certified as a Video Editor, applicants must pass an online exam administered by HPA. The exam consists of multiple choice and essay questions related to the principles of editing, production workflow and post-production techniques. It takes approximately three hours to complete the exam. Applicants must also submit a portfolio demonstrating their editing experience and skills.

The cost for taking the HPA Certified Video Editor exam is $250 USD. Upon successful completion of the exam and portfolio review, applicants will be awarded a certificate from HPA recognizing them as a Certified Video Editor. The certificate is valid for two years from the date it was issued. After two years, applicants may renew their certification by submitting proof of continuing education or additional work experience in video editing.

8. Advanced TV Production Certificate from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS)

The Advanced Television Production Certificate from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) is a professional certification program that provides specialized training in advanced television production techniques. The certificate is designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of those already working in the television industry, as well as to provide an opportunity for those interested in entering the field.

The program consists of three courses: Television Production Techniques, Advanced Television Production, and Post-Production Techniques. Each course focuses on a specific area of television production, such as lighting, camera operation, editing, and sound design. The courses are offered online or at AMPAS’s Los Angeles campus.

The program takes approximately one year to complete. Students must complete all three courses within two years to receive their certificate. There are no prerequisites for enrollment in the program; however, students should have some background in television production or related fields before enrolling.

The cost of the program varies depending on which courses you take and how many credits you need to complete it. Generally speaking, each course costs around $1,000 per credit hour. So if you take all three courses and need 12 credits to finish the program, it will cost around $12,000 total.

To get started with the program, applicants must submit an application form along with transcripts from their previous education or work experience that demonstrate their knowledge of television production techniques. After submitting their application materials, applicants will be contacted by AMPAS staff who will guide them through the process of enrolling in classes and completing their certificate requirements.

9. Advanced Television Production Certification from the Producers Guild of America (PGA)

The Advanced Television Production Certification from the Producers Guild of America (PGA) is a certification program designed to recognize television producers who have demonstrated a high level of skill and knowledge in the production of television. The program is open to all professionals working in the television industry, including writers, directors, editors, cinematographers, production designers, and other creative personnel.

The certification process consists of two parts: an online course and an exam. The online course covers topics such as budgeting and scheduling, production management, legal issues, post-production processes, and more. It takes approximately 10 hours to complete the online course. After completing the online course, applicants must take a written exam that tests their knowledge of the material covered in the course. The exam includes multiple-choice questions and essay questions related to television production.

In order to receive certification from the PGA, applicants must pass both the online course and written exam with a score of 80% or higher. Once certified, individuals will receive a certificate from the PGA that recognizes their advanced knowledge in television production.

The cost for taking part in this program varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of the PGA. For members of the PGA, it costs $495 for access to both parts of the certification process (the online course and written exam). For non-members it costs $595 for access to both parts of the certification process (the online course and written exam).

Overall, obtaining Advanced Television Production Certification from the Producers Guild of America (PGA) is an excellent way for individuals working in television production to demonstrate their expertise and gain recognition within their field.

10. Professional Certificate in Multi-Camera Live Production from NAB Education Foundation

The Professional Certificate in Multi-Camera Live Production from NAB Education Foundation is a comprehensive program designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to produce professional multi-camera live events. The program consists of six courses that cover topics such as camera operation, audio mixing, lighting, video switchers, and streaming. Each course is taught by experienced professionals in the field and includes both online lectures and hands-on training in a studio setting. The program takes approximately three months to complete, depending on the student's availability.

To get this certificate, students must first apply for admission to the program through the NAB Education Foundation website. Once accepted into the program, students will be required to complete all six courses within three months. Upon successful completion of all courses and passing of final exams, students will receive their Professional Certificate in Multi-Camera Live Production from NAB Education Foundation.

The cost of this certificate program varies depending on the number of courses taken and whether or not any additional materials are purchased. Generally speaking, it costs around $3,000-$4,000 USD for all six courses plus materials.

11. Professional Certificate in Post-Production Management from NAB Education Foundation

The Professional Certificate in Post-Production Management from NAB Education Foundation is a comprehensive program designed to provide professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to manage post-production activities. This certificate program provides an overview of post-production processes, including editing, color grading, audio mixing, and delivery. It covers topics such as workflow management, budgeting, scheduling, client relations, and more.

The program is offered online and takes approximately 12 weeks to complete. The curriculum consists of eight courses that cover topics such as production management fundamentals, post-production workflows and techniques, digital asset management systems, media delivery formats and standards, sound design for video projects, and more.

To get the Professional Certificate in Post-Production Management from NAB Education Foundation you must enroll in the program online at their website. The cost of the program is $2195 USD.

Do You Really Need a Television Producer Certificate?

No, you do not need a television producer certificate to become a successful television producer. While a certificate may provide some knowledge and help you understand the basics of television production, it is not necessary in order to be successful. The most important thing for any aspiring television producer is to gain experience by working on projects and learning from experienced professionals.

Experience on set and hands-on work are the best ways to learn how to produce television shows. This can involve internships, assisting other producers, or even volunteering for local organizations that may need your help with their productions. Working with seasoned professionals will give you invaluable insight into the industry and teach you techniques that will make your own productions successful.

Having a good network of contacts is also essential for any aspiring producer. Building relationships with other producers and industry professionals can give you access to job opportunities and advice from those who have been in the business for many years. Developing these connections can also be beneficial when it comes time to market yourself and get your name out there as an established producer.

In conclusion, while having a certificate may give you knowledge about the basics of producing television shows, it is not necessary in order to be successful in this field. Gaining experience through hands-on work, developing relationships with industry professionals, and building up your network of contacts are all much more important factors in becoming a successful television producer than having a certificate alone.

Related: Television Producer Resume Examples

FAQs About Television Producer Certifications

1. What is a Television Producer Certification?

Answer: A television producer certification is a credential that verifies an individual’s knowledge and skills in the field of television production. It is typically awarded by an accredited institution or professional organization and can be used to demonstrate expertise in the profession.

2. What are the benefits of having a Television Producer Certification?

Answer: Having a television producer certification offers numerous benefits, including increased job opportunities, higher pay, greater credibility, and improved networking opportunities. Additionally, it can help individuals stand out from their peers and provide them with more confidence in their abilities as producers.

3. How do I become certified as a Television Producer?

Answer: To become certified as a television producer, you must pass an exam administered by an accredited institution or professional organization that specializes in certifying producers. You may also need to complete additional coursework or training depending on the requirements of the certifying body.

4. Is there an age requirement for obtaining Television Producer Certification?

Answer: Generally speaking, no – there is no specific age requirement for obtaining a television producer certification; however, some certifying bodies may have restrictions when it comes to minimum ages for certain levels of certification. It's best to check with your chosen certifying body to ensure that you meet all requirements before beginning your application process.

5. How much does it cost to get certified as a Television Producer?

Answer: The cost of obtaining a television producer certification varies depending on factors such as the certifying body and type of certification being sought after; however, most certifications range between $500-$1000 USD depending on what level of certification you are seeking (basic or advanced).