Reporters

• The average salary for radio and television reporters is $37,710. The top 10 percent earned more than $77,000 and the lowest 10 percent earned less than $20,000. The middle income earners made between $25,000 and $52,000. Many radio and television reporters follow the same process as their counterparts at newspapers and magazines but they often compose and present their stories live on the scene. Some reporters may offer opinions on certain stories and these reporters are referred to as commentators. Commentators usually specialize in a certain area like financial or political issues. Larger radio and television news stations have general assignment reporters who cover a specific subject like health, business or consumer affairs.
  
  

Correspondents

• Correspondents have similar earnings to reporters, according to the BLS. They average around $37,000, with the higher earners making over $77,000 and lowest earners making less than $20,000. Those in the middle are earning around $25,000 to just over $52,000. Correspondents report on national and global events from within the country or overseas. They may cover many different topics depending on major events happening at the time, including elections, meetings of political or business leaders, and social unrest such as protests and riots. Sometimes while reporting a story correspondents can be placed in harm's way.
  
  

News Analysts

• The average salary for radio and television news analysts is $51,890. The top 10 percent earned more than $156,000 while the bottom 10 percent earned less than $23,000. Those in the middle earned between $32,000 and $88,000. Also known as news anchors or newscasters, the BLS says analysts examine, interpret, and present news received from many sources. In addition to reporting on news stories, they introduce videotaped feed or live transmissions from correspondents and reporters at the scene of the stories. They may also do live interviews and discussion panels about a critical event. Some anchors specialize, like those dealing with weather and sports.
  
  

Considerations

• Broadcast journalists generally have degrees in journalism, communications or related areas like English. In addition to writing and communication skills, broadcast journalist need training in radio and broadcast news production. They should also have computer skills. Other helpful courses include economics, political science, sociology, psychology and history. Another important part of broadcast journalism is hands-on experience gained through internships or fellowships. Some qualities broadcast journalists should have are persistence, being at ease around a variety of people and in unfamiliar places, resourcefulness, ability to work long hours, and ability to meet deadlines.