To work as an announcer, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• have training and experience beyond high school; and
• have a good speaking voice.

Education after high school

Educational requirements for announcers vary. Radio and television announcers typically have a bachelor's degree in journalism, broadcasting, or communications, along with work experience gained from working at their college radio or television station. Public address announcers typically need a high school diploma, along with short-term, on-the-job training.

Proven talent is more important in this occupation than formal training. Training alone will not get you an announcing job, talent will.

Work experience

Work at a radio or television station, even if you are not announcing, is good experience. Many colleges have radio stations and give students the opportunity to work at them. An internship or work as a student announcer while in school is good preparation for this occupation.

On-the-job training

Announcers typically need short-term, on-the-job training upon being hired. During training you become familiar with the equipment you will use during sporting and entertainment events. For sports public address announcers, training may also go over basic rules and information for the sports they are covering.

Military training

The military trains people to be broadcast journalists and newswriters. Training lasts nine to 12 weeks. The experience you gain in these positions should transfer to a job as an announcer.