What is Radio Jockeying?: Course Fees 2025, Subjects, Top Colleges, Admissions

You can also complete one year Diploma Radio Jockey course radio programming and broadcast management radio production and radio jockeying or radio management.

Some radio jockeys have four-year college degrees in media studies mass communication languages linguistics telecommunications or acting.

In general, an RJ's role is to inform, update, and entertain its listeners. Their job entails presenting numerous music programmes and entertaining the audience with other components such as interviews with guests, musicians, artists, and well-known individuals, either related to the music or not - delivering commentary on a music piece, and managing listener requests.

Hi,

The qualities and skills that are must for a radio jockey (RJ) are:

• A radio jockey should be diplomatic in character as he/she has to interact with people of different nature
• He / she must maintain a down-to-earth and approachable attitude so that listeners can comfortably make calls and speak their hearts out
• Must be connected with music to do well in this particular field
• Good command over language - especially Hindi and English
• One should be aware of what’s happening around
• Needs to love music and be flexible in music choices
• A good knowledge of the local market and a solid network with agencies and local retail shops

A degree along with RJ course always helps in a long run. The role of an RJ is to inform, update and entertain. Also known as Radio DJs, their work involves presenting various music programmes and entertaining the audience through other elements like interviews of guests - musicians, artists and well-known personalities, either related to the music/film profession or even otherwise- providing commentaries related to a music piece and manage requests of listeners.

If you are really interested in a radio jockey career, it is very important for you to be spontaneous, spunky and have a pleasing, friendly personality. A good voice and a strong command over language is always a good thing when you're looking to make a career in this field.

To become a good radio jockey, research is the key, like in every other field. You need to listen to good radio jockeys so that you can understand their style and later, with practice, develop your own. You need to understand what the masses need and give them just that.

Radio Jockey Eligibility Criteria What matters the most in this career path is, obviously your voice. Your diction and pronunciation should be clear. You need to know how to modulate the pitch and tenor of your voice. For different radio programmes, you will have to modulate your voice differently, so you must keep that in mind.

Having a Radio Jockey course can act as a basic entry ticket to various stations, but a candidate having some experience and any type of documentation to validate the same will take them a long way. It is always advisable to do some intern work before applying for a full-fledged job.

No, there is no specific entrance exams for the programme. But, to get admissions to few colleges like Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication, IIMC, XIC and more, they have their own entrance exams like IIMC Entrance Exam,  XIC OET and more.

Absolutely, students from any academic background, including science or commerce, can pursue an RJ course. The course does not require prior media knowledge, as it starts with basics.

What matters most is creativity, communication skills, and passion for speaking. Institutes design the curriculum to build these abilities in students, irrespective of their earlier field of study.

The duration of Radio Jockeying courses depends on the type of programme you pursue. While certificate courses are usually of six months, the duration of Diploma programmes typically ranges from one-two years.

Listed below are some popular books one can refer to for the Radio Jockey course:

• The Radio Jockey Handbook by Simran Kohli
• Romance the Microphone: Be a Radio Jockey by Swaty Gupta
• Encyclopaedia of Journalism and Mass Communication by OM Gupta
• Fundamentals of Radio Broadcasting by John Hasling
• How to Become a Radio DJ: A Guide to Breaking by Mike Staff

Yes, most Radio Jockey courses include hands-on practical training in professional or simulated studios. This allows students to work with real equipment, microphones, and sound systems while learning how to host shows.

Practical sessions help them understand the flow of live broadcasts, timing, and audience engagement. Such exposure ensures they are industry-ready and confident before stepping into real-world radio stations.

Yes, voice modulation is a key part of the RJ course syllabus. Students are trained to use pitch, tone, and pauses effectively to make their voice engaging and pleasant for listeners.

The training helps them develop versatility in presenting music, news, or entertainment shows. It also boosts clarity and expression, which are essential for connecting with diverse audiences on radio.

Diploma Radio Jockey courses are usually longer in duration, offering in-depth training in radio presentation, sound techniques, and media exposure. They often include practical internships.

Certificate courses, on the other hand, are shorter and designed to give a quick introduction to RJ basics. While diplomas prepare students for professional careers, certificate courses are ideal for beginners exploring an interest in the field.

Some of the top and popular colleges for Radio Jockey courses are:

• Lady Institute of Mass Communication, New Delhi
• Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi
• Xavier Institute of Communications, Mumbai
• The Mudra Institute of Communications, Ahmadabad
• Zee Institute of Media Arts, Mumbai
• Symbiosis Institute of Media and Communication, Pune
• Lady Shri Ram College, New Delhi
• Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication, Dwarka

Few names of the abroad universities that provide Radio Jockey Course are:

• Macquarie University
• Syracuse of Salford
• Centennial College of Applied Arts and Technology
• Southern Illinois University, Carbondale
• Syracuse University

In case you are a working professional and still want to pursue a career in RJ ahead, then Radio Jockeying online courses are an advantage, due to which you can learn how to be an RJ at your convenience:

Note- The above information has been taken from external sources, and hence may vary.

Udemy offers a few courses related to radio jockeying, but they are not specifically designed to teach you how to be an RJ.  The courses offered focus more on the technical aspects of radio, such as how to start a web radio station or use radio broadcasting software. Some of these courses are mentioned below: 

Note- The above information has been taken from external sources, and hence may vary.

Yes, there can be differences for RJ course. Media institutes often offer shorter, practical-focused courses with industry exposure, workshops, and internships.
Universities usually provide longer, structured programs that include academic depth along with training. Students can choose based on whether they prefer quick, skill-oriented training or a formal degree.

Radio Jockeying is a talent based field. Even though no formal educational qualification is required, a degree or at least plus two is generally a pre-requisite.

The most essential factor for a Radio Jockey is a good voice with the ability to modulate as per the occasion. Apart from that, an RJ should have a clear diction, accurate pronunciation, flare and fluency in the language. They should be able to control the pitches of their voice and learn to use them to the best effect.

Another distinguishing characteristic to become a successful radio jockey is the speed of response, good sense of humor, individuality, creativity of mind, spontaneity and an intensive knowledge of music. Successful RJs have the ability to twist and turn their speech according to the situation. 

Staying updated is very important for a radio jockey. An RJ needs to keep track of the happenings in and around the city. People will enjoy listening to an RJ, if they can sound different on the show. So qualities like mimicry, local dialects and comedy or humor items will help the RJ to carry on their shows.

Regards.

The beginners in the initial stage can earn between INR 7,000 to INR 15,000 per month. For sponsored Radio Jockey course, software producing companies may pay between INR 1400 to INR 2500 per show. 

After a few years of experience, the earnings can be raised double and depending on the popularity of their shows, RJ's can earn between INR 15,000 up to Rs 85,000 per month. If you are recognized, then you will have all the right to demand your own price.

These are a few eligibilities, as well as other requirements at a professional level that a candidate must fulfill to get into a Radio career and be successful at the same time. 

• One should have completed their graduation, or Diploma in the field of Communication, Journalism, or Broadcast Production.
• Building a network of individuals from the radio field and doing relevant internships.
• Practice speaking at a microphone in an isolated space at home, or any work space. 

Yes, RJ courses are very relevant for careers in podcasting and digital media. The training covers storytelling, voice presentation, and audience engagement, which are also crucial for online platforms.

With the rise of podcasts, YouTube shows, and streaming apps, RJ skills are easily transferable. Many students use this training to launch careers as podcasters, voice-over artists, and digital content creators.

Dear Sneha,

You may do a short-term Radio Jockey course from DU or RK Films for RJ to learn about the basics of it. Also, to become an anchor, you need to have the face value, and in the case of a radio jockey, you need to be spontaneous and have a good command of your language, as these are the things that are not taught during the course.

The names of some popular stations a Radio Jockey can go for are:

• All India Radio
• Red FM (93.5)
• Radio Mirchi (98.3)
• Big FM (92.7)
• Fever (104 FM)

The admission process for RJ courses in India is usually merit-based. Students are shortlisted based on their academic scores in Class 12 or graduation, depending on the course level.
Some institutes may conduct personal interviews or voice tests to evaluate communication and presentation skills. The process is straightforward, with most colleges focusing on passion and potential rather than strict academic cutoffs.

No, prior media experience is not required to join an RJ course. These programs are designed to train beginners from scratch in voice work, content creation, and technical aspects.
Students are guided step-by-step in developing professional RJ skills. Enthusiasm for radio and willingness to learn are considered more important than past exposure to media.

English fluency is not compulsory to become a Radio Jockey. Many popular RJs host shows in Hindi, regional, or mixed languages, depending on their audience.
What’s more important is clear communication, confidence, and relatability. However, having proficiency in English alongside regional languages can create wider opportunities across national and international stations.

Most RJ courses accept students above 17 or 18 years, with no strict upper age limit. This makes the field flexible for both freshers and professionals seeking a career shift.
Some institutes may have specific eligibility linked to academic level, but overall, age is not a major barrier. Passion and communication skills matter more than age in pursuing this career.

Yes, many RJ courses include modules on sound editing, mixing, and basic audio production. Students learn to handle studio consoles, software, and microphones.
This technical training helps them manage shows independently and adapt to modern broadcasting needs. It also opens opportunities beyond radio, such as podcast production and digital content creation.

Communication skills are at the core of RJ training. The ability to connect with listeners, present ideas clearly, and hold engaging conversations is emphasized throughout the course.
Students are trained in articulation, confidence building, and improvisation. These skills make the difference between a regular presenter and a memorable Radio Jockey.

Yes, modern RJ courses often include training in social media management and digital broadcasting. Since radio has expanded into online streaming and podcasts, these skills are essential.
Students learn how to promote shows online, engage with digital audiences, and use platforms like YouTube or Spotify. This prepares them for both traditional and modern media roles.

Practical training familiarizes students with the pace and challenges of live broadcasting. They practice voice delivery, time management, and audience interaction in studio setups.
This hands-on approach helps them gain confidence, overcome stage fright, and adapt to technical issues. By simulating real shows, students are better prepared for professional radio stations.

Yes, most RJ courses discuss the growing shift from traditional FM/AM radio to digital streaming platforms. Students are taught about changing listener habits and online opportunities.
While traditional radio continues to have a strong reach, digital radio and podcasts are rapidly growing. Courses prepare students for both, ensuring versatility in career prospects.