How Do I Become A Real Estate Loan Officer And Loan Processor?

Hi everyone, my question is in regards to getting started in the real estate business. I would really like to learn how to become a real estate loan officer and loan processor. I have tried to get some information about this on my own, but I just end up overwhelmed and unable to identify what I really need to do to become one. I don’t really know anyone in the field and the few real estate agents that I have asked only tells me to go to one of their meetings, which I have gone to, only to find that they’re just trying to sell me into joining their “team”. Is this the only way to go? Or is there another option for me? I have searched online and found numerous classes that offer certificates, are these what I need to take? Should I be taking classes in a community college and earning these certificates or is online acceptable? Do I even need to take classes to earn a certificate and do I even need a certificate? Would I need a license to work as a loan officer and/or processor?