[4] WTJU was founded in 1955 when the University of Virginia’s Department of Speech and Drama decided to start an educational radio station to serve the larger community.

On May 10, 1957, WTJU went on the air at 91.3 FM with a classical music format and was able to broadcast throughout Charlottesville, building a small but dedicated group of listeners.

Administrators pressed ahead with a search for new management, even as the university's Board of Visitors approved turning in the station's license if they did not see a path to viability.

Beard's proposals led to backlash from both volunteers and listeners, who feared the potential loss of the station's identity and cancellations of specialty shows.

WTJU exited the agreement early on August 16, 2017, as the signal was found to be inadequate and the increase in underwriting from the Richmond market did not offset the cost.

[11] In addition to its on-air activities, WTJU also produces a variety of music and educational events such as live concerts, film screenings, and youth radio camps.

[12][13] Since 2015, WTJU has hosted a series of free outdoor concerts at Charlottesville's IX Art Park each fall, emphasizing eclectic music and creative community building.

[16] Among the well-known artists who have been DJs at WTJU are Pavement's Stephen Malkmus, Dave Matthews Band's Boyd Tinsley, Rolling Stone critic Rob Sheffield, Yo La Tengo's James McNew, Jagjaguwar founder Darius Van Arman, and blues musician Corey Harris.

Hiring professional staff in the 1990s necessitated removing WTJU from limits on non-university-affiliated members that bind student organizations and club sports.