-How does the training program work at Discovery Broadcasting Academy?
Discovery Broadcasting Academy uses a time tested apprentice/mentor program.  We work with radio stations across the country to match students and mentors.  For hundreds of years skilled masters have trained apprentices one-on-one on the job.  It was, and still is, the most effective way to learn the skills necessary to become a master in your chosen profession.  Upon acceptance into the Discovery Broadcasting Academy program, you will be matched with a working radio professional at a radio station near you.  Your mentor will work one-on-one with you to train you in a real world environment-- something you cannot get at a traditional college or trade school.  You will receive the same text material and assignments of any school, college or university program.  The difference, however, is that you will not be stuck in a classroom or lab with 30 or more students all vying for time with the instructor or grad student, but instead Discovery Broadcasting students work one-on-one with a professional broadcaster in a real radio station gaining knowledge and real broadcasting experience.

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-Can I work this around my current job and schedule?
Yes, once accepted, your training can take place around your schedule, during your off hours, evenings and weekends.  This program is self-paced and can accommodate any schedule.

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-How long does it take to complete the program?
The program is self-paced and designed to be completed in 4 to 6 months.  As a student, you do the reading, homework assignments and audio labs at home, during times that are convenient for you.  Typically, students meet once per week with their mentor at a time that is convenient for both of you.   There is no set number of required hours per week that must be adhered to; each mentor/student relationship, schedule and lesson plan is unique.

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-What is the tuition?
Your admission councilor will have details on any special scholarships or discounts, be sure to ask.  A discount of $1000.00 is available if tuition is paid in full before your first mentor training session, making your tuition only $3950.00. Full tuition is normally $4950.00.

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-What does my tuition cover?
Tuition covers all text books, mentor fees, and an audio production suite that includes a USB Microphone with Audio Interface and Stand, Digital Recording and Editing Software.

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-Why does Discovery Broadcasting Academy cost less than traditional or trade schools?
Discovery Broadcasting Academy has very little overhead.  No campus, expensive classrooms or audio labs.  Students at Discovery Broadcasting Academy study at home and learn in a real operational, state of the art radio station.

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-What does the mentor get out of this?
The largest portion of your tuition goes to the mentor/instructor.  This person is the most important part of your educational experience.  They are showing you the reality of a career in broadcasting.  The mentor also receives an incentive for your employment.  They will, however, not jeopardize their station or accept you as a student if they do not believe that they or someone else in the industry could hire you after completion of the Discovery Broadcasting Academy program and the on the job training it provides.  If you are a professional broadcaster working at a radio station and want to be a mentor, click here.

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-What kinds of jobs are available to me?
As a graduate of Discovery Broadcasting Academy you will be able to fill many needs at a radio station including on-air announcer, newscaster, board operator, copy writer, show producer, and production department staffer.  You must be prepared to start at the bottom of the ladder.  You should plan on working weekends and night shifts, the hours that people with a lot of experience don’t want.  Opportunities are countless for people who are willing to “do what it takes” and by completing the Discovery Broadcasting Academy program, you have taken a major step to show employers you are serious about the industry, and willing to do the job.

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-What is the enrollment process?
Completing the applicant contact form is the first step. (Click here to get to the applicant contact form)  Make sure you give a telephone number that you can be reached at and the best time to call.  A representative of Discovery Broadcasting Academy will call you, discuss the program with you, and answer any questions you may have.  If you want to move forward with the process we will schedule an in-depth telephone interview with you.  After the successful completion of the telephone interview you will be set up for a face-to-face interview with your potential mentor at the mentor’s radio station.  This is a very important part of the process. If the mentor feels you have what it takes for a career as a broadcaster and you are comfortable with mentor, (remember you will be meeting with this person for the next 4 to 6 months) the placement can be made.  There is no cost for the application and interview process.

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-What should I expect in the phone interview?
The phone interview is designed to determine if you have the desire and willingness to work towards a successful outcome with Discovery Broadcasting Academy.  Not only will we find out more about you, but just as important, this is your chance to ask any questions you may have about us and about our training program.  If you pass the telephone interview, and you wish to proceed with the placement process, you will be scheduled for a face to face interview with your potential mentor.

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-What should I expect in the face to face interview?
After passing the telephone interview you will move on to the face to face interview.  This is when you will meet your potential mentor at the mentor’s radio station.   You will have time to get to know each other, talk about your questions and expectations, discuss schedules and take a tour of the broadcasting facilities.  If your potential mentor passes you, and you wish to proceed, the placement will be made.

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-How do I know if I am qualified?
The most important element for qualification is the ability and willingness to work hard.  No amount of talent can make up for a poor work ethic.  Candidates need desire, motivation, dedication, persistence and a good attitude to be accepted into the program.   You need not have any prior broadcasting experience to be accepted into the Discovery Broadcasting Academy.

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-Am I guaranteed a job when I complete the Discovery Broadcasting Academy program?
In a word, no, however as a Discovery Broadcasting Academy graduate, Program Directors and General Managers will know that you are well ahead of the curve compared to the stacks of resumes from ordinary college graduates.  You will have the unique opportunity to show off your potential talents, skills and your work ethic to potential employers.  Sometimes when your desires are known and opportunities present themselves, a student may line up a job before the completion of the Discovery Broadcasting Academy curriculum.

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-Does Discovery Broadcasting Academy offer a payment plan?
Discovery Broadcasting Academy does offer a payment plan. Ask for details during your telephone interview.

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