Podcasters

High School

You do not need a high school diploma to work as a podcaster, but graduating from high school is one of the best moves you can make in life. A high school diploma (or GED) will open many doors for you, including making you eligible to be admitted to college. High school courses that will be useful to you as a podcaster include computer science, English, and speech. Additionally, if you plan to create a podcast about a particular subject, you should take classes in that area. For example, if you plan to host a podcast about politics, you should take as many history, social studies, and government classes as you can. If you are interested in podcasting about the environment, you should take classes in earth science, biology, environmental science, and chemistry.

Postsecondary Education

Most people treat podcasting as a second career, so it is important to complete educational training that will prepare you for your main job. Podcasters have a wide range of educational backgrounds. Some have degrees in broadcasting and digital media, while others have degrees in biology, law, political science, or mathematics. A podcaster who podcasts about auto repair may have completed an apprenticeship or have a vocational degree in automotive repair.

Certification

Some colleges and universities—such as Ohio University, Austin Community College (Texas), and Massasoit Community College (Massachusetts)—offer certificate programs in podcasting. Programs typically last six months to a year and are available in online, in-person, and hybrid formats. Contact schools in your area for information about available programs.

Other Education or Training

Continuing education seminars, webinars, and other podcast-related learning opportunities are provided by professional associations (e.g., The Podcast Academy, Black Podcasters Association), colleges and universities, and for-profit online learning platforms.