Broadcast and Cable Networks

Since its birth over 60 years ago, television news has grown to become the voice of local communities throughout America, and national broadcasts have helped make the United States seem smaller. In addition to providing news, television networks also offer viewers a variety of programming, ranging from cooking shows to movies to situation comedies to sporting events. The four major television networks -- CBS, NBC, ABC and Fox -- compete with cable stations, satellite TV, the Internet, video games and other media choices.

Jobs in television include content, production and business positions. Content and production jobs range from entry-level positions such as production assistant to senior-level jobs like executive producer. On-air jobs include reporter, meteorologist, sportscaster and anchor. On the business side, typical roles include advertising sales and marketing. The best way to break into television news is through internships. As with other media, a journalism degree will enhance your resume, but it won’t necessarily land you a job. Many of the entry-level jobs once used to launch careers in television are disappearing due to technological changes, budget cuts and consolidation. A relatively new way to enter the television business is by working for broadcast organizations’ websites.

Television broadcasters and networks have struggled during the economic downturn as advertising revenue has fallen. For example, in late 2008 NBC Universal laid off large numbers of employees. In the long run, things look slightly better. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects employment in radio and television broadcasting to increase approximately 9 percent between 2006 and 2016.