What Education Does One Need to Be a Disc Jockey?
Disc jockeys provide entertainment and news and introduce music on the radio, or they work for themselves at functions or clubs, and while a wide range of educational backgrounds are accepted, the most important training to become a DJ is hands-on experience. With the end goal of becoming a DJ, many people start off as interns or get their experience working in other areas of radio before becoming on-air personalities.
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Education
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Unlike becoming a lawyer or a teacher, there are no clearly laid out educational requirements for becoming a disc jockey. However, those interested in becoming a disc jockey may consider a technical or vocational school specializing in broadcasting. Other possible educational paths to becoming a disc jockey include bachelor’s degrees in communications, journalism, computer science or English.
Training
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The most important education for a disc jockey usually comes outside of the classroom. It is helpful to have a background in music, as well as experience in working with the studio equipment. Many aspiring disc jockeys start out working in school radio stations or enter the field by accepting internships or working on the technical side of the station.
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Pay
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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the pay for disc jockeys varies greatly by location. Cities with large populations pay more than smaller cities. As of November 2010, PayScale reported the average earnings of disc jockeys to range between $20,575 and $37,722.
Potential
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The number of disc jockey positions is on the decline. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that as of May 2008, there were about 55,100 radio and television announcer jobs, and that there would be a decline in that number through 2018. The decline is the result of a slowdown in the number of new stations, syndication of existing programs and the rise of audio entertainment through new media, such as podcasts and online radio programs.
Considerations
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Becoming a disc jockey is highly competitive, and as the number of disc jockey positions dwindles, the competition is likely to become even fiercer.
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References
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