Reality Programming

Requirements for Membership

Please note that requirements (as outlined below) must be met within the four (4) years preceding one's application for membership or membership review; also, such requirements apply in each instance to the production and/or distribution of nationally exhibited audio visual works. All episodes should be a minimum of thirty (30) minutes in length unless defined otherwise specifically for short form programming. Credits from self-published programs alone do not qualify for membership in the Television Academy. Individuals who have received a Primetime, Daytime, or Children's & Family Emmy Nomination, specific to this peer group, within the past four (4) years are eligible for Active membership.

Active Status:

Employment in one or more of the following positions for a minimum of two (2) years within the last four (4) years on reality television content and, have at least twenty (20) credited episodes.

Primary professional function and/or on-air credits must be in competitive or non-competitive reality content including but not limited to the following job categories:

  • Audio Sound Mixer

  • Camera

  • Casting

  • Director

  • Director of Photography

  • Executive In Charge

  • Host

  • Judge

  • Music Supervisors

  • Picture Editor

  • Production Designer

  • Qualifying Producer Credit

  • Story Editor

  • Television Executives


Or a qualified body of work relevant to the peer group that warrants a waiver of the above requirements. Body of Work designation has all benefits of Active membership with the exception of running for Peer Group Governor.

Associate Status:

Anyone meeting the criteria above who has yet to compile the time or screen credits for Active membership.

updated 3.21.23

Board of Governors Representatives

Apply Now

Applications are accepted year-round. Application processing time is 4-6 weeks.  2024 Emmy Nominee applications will be expedited!

Click here for the Membership Emmy Awards Calendar. New applications are subject to a one-time nonrefundable processing fee of $50. Fees are payable by Visa, MasterCard or American Express.