The Radio, Television and Broadcast News (RTBN) program is divided into three options: Radio, Television or Broadcast News. Students choose the option that best fits their individual skills and interests, in preparation for a challenging, creative and exciting career in the media.
Radio students gain valuable industry experience by operating SAIT's campus radio station (accessible worldwide at radio.sait.ca). Students progress from mastering audio basics to advanced digital multi-track production, perform duties in the sales and promotions departments, and rotate through station positions including on-air personality, creative director, and production manager. Students also receive training in music directing, traffic management, and news and sports delivery, to round out this exciting and worthwhile career path.
Television students learn the fundamentals of writing, directing, producing, and editing through live production and assembling pre-recorded video and audio elements. A strong emphasis is placed on hands-on learning and innovation in both single and multi-camera environments. Students work in teams to produce information and news programs, live event programming (such as sports), variety programs, documentaries, commercials, and public service announcements. Students also become familiar with the technical aspects of television media by working with broadcast-quality equipment such as High Definition cameras, switchers, digital audio consoles, graphics work stations, servers and computer-based editing systems.
Broadcast News (BN) students learn how to research and objectively present a story. They receive extensive, hands-on training. The program provides realistic experiences behind and in front of the camera and microphone. Students are trained to work effectively in both the radio and television environment. BN students learn the importance of meeting deadlines while maintaining a respect for journalistic integrity. Students take on many roles in our newsroom, including reporter, producer, line-up editor, news and sports anchor, and weather reporter.
The RTBN program involves two years of full-time study. Each of the program's two years is divided into two semesters. There is a single intake each year, with classes ommencing in September and finishing in late April. A four-week industry practicum is required in the fourth semester. All Radio, Television, and Broadcast News students participate in laptop e-learning curriculum. Students lease a PC laptop computer from SAIT, which are equipped with various software applications. Internet access, training and technical support are provided throughout the program.
