Stenographers earned an median yearly salary of $49,710 in May 2008, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. With the use of a stenography machine, stenographers record the spoken word at legal proceedings, business meetings, press conferences and government proceedings. Commonly referred to as a court reporter, stenographers should experience an 18 percent increase in available opportunities through 2018, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Education
Formal training for court stenography usually takes 33 months. While training for court stenography is offered at approximately 100 technical and vocational schools and colleges, only 60 are certified by the National Court Reporters Association, or NCRA. Students attending programs which are certified by the NCRA are required to meet minimum standards, such as capturing a minimum 225 words a minute. Capturing 225 words a minute is required for federal government positions. Among the courses involved in court stenography programs are computer-aided transcription for stenography and real-time reporting.
Certification
Court reporters may be required to meet state requirements by passing a state board of examiners administered test. Passing the state test makes a student a certified court reporter. A certification provides additional job opportunities and sets you apart from other job applicants, even if your state doesn't require it. The National Court Report Association offers entry level certification, resulting in certification as a registered professional reporter. Designation is given after successfully passing a four part exam. Continuing education is required to maintain the certification.
Skills
Stenographer positions require a high rate of accuracy and speed. In order to obtain optimum efficiency it's important stenographers have excellent listening skills and good concentration. Recording information accurately involves the understanding of grammar and vocabulary. In particular, knowledge of business and legal terminology is necessary for those who will be employed as a court reporter within the legal system, government or private sector. Stenographers should also work well under pressure and be able to meet deadlines.
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