A transcriptionist is a professional who listens to dictated information in the form of recordings and types this information accurately for use in letters or reports. Individuals who want to become transcriptionists often complete certificate programs that last about a year or two-year associate degree programs in order to be successful in this field. To get the best transcription training, you need to interview current professionals in the field, research information about potential schools, visit these schools, and talk to current students.
An important step that you must take to get the best transcription training is to look for industry professionals who will give you advice about where to attend school. You can call local companies that hire transcriptionists, which often include medical centers and clinics, and ask to talk to an experienced transcriptionist there. When you interview him or her via telephone or in person, you need to ask him or her where he or she received field training and the pros and cons of that particular training institution. You also should ask the transcriptionist if he or she feels that the school offered adequate preparation for the field.
Acquiring solid transcription education also requires that you visit the websites of various transcription training programs in your area. An institution’s website should give you information about the school’s course content, as well as the requirements to be admitted into that training program. Some training programs additionally feature statistics regarding how many of the institution’s alumni have found jobs. The website allows you to compare your own career goals with the school’s mission as well. For instance, some schools provide training only for those who desire to become medical transcriptionists, while others additionally prepare students to do court reporting.
A valuable way to decide on a superior transcription academic curriculum is to actually visit your potential training facility. While there, you should observe the school’s technology to make sure that the machines appear up-to-date and will accommodate modern computer software. In addition, you can ask the instructors about whether you will be able to transfer any of the transcription training program credits you earn there to a four-year business degree program.
Talking to current students, interns, or alumni also will help you to decide on the best school for aspiring transcriptionists. You can visit local hospitals or physicians’ offices to ask current students who are interning at these sties whether they feel their schools prepared them well. In addition, you should contact associations that certify transcriptionists to find out what schools they recommend for transcription training.
