Broadcast presenter : Entry requirements

Although this area of work is open to all graduates and diplomates, the following degree, HND or foundation degree subjects may improve your chances:

• drama/performing arts;
• journalism;
• media/communication studies;
• media performance;
• multimedia;
• music technology.

Alternatively, a degree in the genre you wish to work in within the broadcast industry may be useful, e.g. politics or economics. However, entry without a degree, HND or foundation degree is also possible.

Postgraduate study is not essential for general broadcasting positions, but it can be useful - especially if you have an unrelated first degree - for gaining relevant practical and technical skills and industry contacts. To become a news or current affairs presenter or reporter, a journalism qualification is increasingly necessary, while expertise and further study in politics, finance or economics also helps. Careful research into course content, tutors, accreditations by relevant official bodies and likely outcomes is advisable before you commit to further study.

Candidates will need to show evidence of the following:

• excellent communication and presentation skills;
• performance skills and a clear voice;
• personable and interesting appearance, especially for visual broadcasts;
• a broad range of interests, including current affairs;
• good research and interviewing skills;
• confidence and the ability to sell yourself;
• awareness of media law;
• the ability to take the initiative and make quick decisions under pressure;
• team-working skills;
• creativity and problem-solving skills.

The route to broadcast presenting is not direct and there is no fixed entry route. Requirements vary according to the type of programme and broadcast medium. Many news presenters start out as news gatherers in local radio, or in newspaper journalism. Television presenters in light entertainment shows may come from acting, reality TV or even modelling backgrounds, while many music radio presenters may have had performance careers, worked as self-employed club or radio DJs, or been producers or broadcast assistants. Detailed knowledge and experience of a specialist field, such as music, sport, gardening or history, can also lead to a presenter role. It is often about being in the right place at the right time, with the right face or voice for the occasion.

Freelance presenting is a difficult route for new graduates to take, and work may entail presenting programmes on television, radio and the internet, or fronting commercials, corporate videos, training videos, etc. However, unless you are employed by a channel full time, and therefore a well-known name, you should only expect one or two freelance jobs per month. Most broadcasters in the early stages of their careers will need to find another source of income.

Broadcasting is a highly competitive area, requiring enthusiasm, persistence and a proactive approach to hunting for jobs and work experience. New graduates may have to enter the profession in a related role, such as a runner, a broadcast assistant or programme researcher and work up from the bottom. Prospective radio presenters often create tapes illustrating their presentation styles and send them, with a CV, to the programme controllers of the stations where they would like to work. Broadcast presenters should compile a DVD showreel of three to four minutes in length, which enables employers to gauge a presenter's performance. The showreel should consist of a series of the presenter's 'best of' clips.

Pre-entry work experience is vital. This might be through on-campus media activities and events, such as student newspapers and radio (see the Student Radio Association (SRA) ), or via vacation work with local hospital radio and television stations (see the Hospital Broadcasting Association (HBA) ). Try to gain as much experience as possible and start early - you will need a foot in the door and as many contacts as possible.

BBC Work Experience  offers unpaid placements, many of which provide an excellent insight into broadcasting. Competition is fierce. You can apply up to 12 months in advance. Another way to gain experience is to pay a fee and have your details posted on websites such as Start in TV  and The Casting Studio . Finally, you could consider signing with an agent.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.