A bachelor’s degree is the most common academic requirement when pursuing a writing or broadcasting career, and yes, there are online schools that do offer coursework in these two careers. As with all online degrees, please verify that your chosen school is an accredited institution.
There are several different kinds of writers; journalist, novelist, editors, copywriters, television, radio and web writers and screenplay writers. All areas are unique in their own way with a wide array of employment possibilities including careers in corporate business, media and web journalism and entertainment. Certain positions, such as reporters, require exceptional research and “detective” skills when writing, especially on unfamiliar topics.
As a writer, you must conceive the thought, use your acquired research skills, creatively convey those thoughts to words, and then forward them to “paper” in order to touch and intrigue the mind of the reader, whether it be through newspaper print, an award-winning Broadway play or a page turning novel. Writers influence our lives on a daily basis in some shape, form or fashion.
A writer must hone their writing skills – that takes time, effort and determination. You must have excellent communication skills, orally, as well as, written. A very important part of earning a communications degree includes excellent spelling, word usage and grammar skills. Your imagination could possibly be your best asset; for you will need to be able to expand on original and creative thoughts. Proofreading for accuracy and grammar structure is mandatory. Earning a communications degree will help you achieve these goals.
So, you may be wondering what sort of coursework you will be participating in as an online student. Typical classes will include journalism, creative writing, debate and speech, social media, technical writing, public relations writing, advertising, media psychology, editing, poetry and script writing, just to name a few.
Another online distant learning option for you is Broadcasting. You may choose to be on the radio or maybe you prefer to be in front of the camera as a news anchor. Both online programs are available.
Students earning a bachelor’s degree in radio broadcasting will learn about communication through radio and technology. Online classes are available, however, some programs require internships and on-campus assignments so, you will want to research your options before you pursue an online education in radio to be sure you can meet the requirements. An internship with a radio station is a great way to gain experience for your resume’.
Coursework for online radio broadcasting will include audio production, studio recording, the effect of media in society, broadcast sales and techniques, digital media, networking, internet and programming, in addition to, ethics and media law. Students with potential radio careers need to be familiar with the regulations of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
Are you comfortable in front of the camera? Perhaps a career as a television broadcaster fits your outgoing personality. If you would rather be behind the scenes, perhaps you are more suited for a role in production or camera operation.
Although rare, you can earn a television broadcasting communications bachelor’s degree through an online program, however, some on-campus projects will be required.
A bachelor’s degree in TV broadcasting and mass communications will involve coursework focusing on the evolution of film, television, cable and internet, ethics and legal regulations, theory and functions of media, communications technology and mass media’s influence on culture. Students will need access to special computer programs and high-speed internet for video recording presentation assignments. Depending on the program, you may be required to attend scheduled web-conferencing classes to participate with other students.
To summarize, online degree programs are available for careers in writing or broadcasting, however, they are limited and some do require assignments to be completed at a brick and mortar campus location.