Since the beginning of commercial broadcasting, individuals have entered the field of broadcast engineering using various paths. Some learned at the knee of an experienced radio or television engineer. Others have taken a more formal route, earning an associate degree from a trade school or junior college, or a bachelors degree from a college or university. The latter is more typical today because of the complexity of the technology involved.

Suggested courses of study include electronics, electrical engineering, computer science and computer programming. Though many schools offer courses or degrees in these subjects, a number of schools offer degrees that are specifically designed to prepare people to work in technical positions at broadcast stations and other electronic media. The SBE has certified a select number of these schools, reviewing their curriculum periodically to ensure that they are providing a program which teaches current methods using the latest technology. For more information about these schools, visit the SBE Certified Schools page.