WQSU-FM began as a university club known as the Susquehanna Radio Association. In September 1967, the Federal Communications Commission granted Susquehanna University authorization for WQSU-FM to begin broadcasting with ten-watts of power. Through the efforts of the late Dr. Clyde Spitzner and others, the equipment necessary for broadcasting was donated and/or purchased and installed. As a result, WQSU-FM went "on-the-air," serving a limited area in the Selinsgrove vicinity. In 1968, WQSU was reorganized and put under the direction of the Susquehanna University Department of Communications and Theatre.

Shortly after beginning broadcast operations, WQSU-FM filed an application for a power increase with the FCC. A long series of delays then followed which kept the FCC from approving the application. Consequently, after seven years, the FCC approved a power increase to 5600 watts, which went into effect on March 26, 1975.

In October of 1978, the Department of Health, Education and Welfare gave WQSU a grant that allowed it to become a stereo station and equip itself with new, state-of-the-art equipment.

WQSU increased its power to its present 12,000 watts in January 1983, after the FCC approved another power increase.

On March 15, 1985, WQSU moved its facilities from 530 University Avenue to its present location in the Degenstien Campus Center. In 1988, the station upgraded its production facilities to include a multi-track production room, and in 1992 the station upgraded to 8-track multi-track. In 1994, the station upgraded its on-air and production facilities to include digital audio tapes (DATs). Beginning in 1999, the station relies mostly on the mini-disc format.

In 2005, the station made significant technology improvements. The mini-disc format was discontinued and computerized systems were implemented. Two Apple Macintosh computers hold the station’s ever-growing music library for the DJs to play audio over the air. Also in 2005, the automation system project was complete. The automation system runs the station when Disc Jockeying staff is not available. Also in 2005, WQSU began streaming online in a partnership with Evenlink.

2008 held many changes for WQSU. The station underwent a complete renovation, and much of the well-used, previous equipment was upgraded to new, state-of-the art equipment and materials, including a new digitalized soundboard. The on-air studio, “fish bowl” guest studio and production rooms were completely renovated. Walls were removed, rooms were painted, windows were added and removed, sound absorbing walling material and new furniture was added, a CCTV security system was installed, and station computers and software were upgraded.

In the Summer of 2009, WQSU was able to purchase a backup generator for our transmitter site.  The generator, powered by an on-site propane tank, will keep our signal going even when power is lost on Montour ridge.  In the past, Montour Ridge lost power frequently during storms – interrupting the WQSU signal.  In the Summer of 2010, WQSU upgraded their main studio with 3 brand new iMac Apple computers and replaced the automation computer with a new Apple MacPro.  

We also invested in remote broadcast equipment to use for our sports broadcasts and other remote sites.  The TieLine equipment utilizes network/IP audio technology and is backwards compatible to use a traditional phone line.  When utilizing the network/IP mode of the TieLine equipment, near-CD quality audio is possible from remote broadcast sites, greatly improving WQSU sports and remote broadcasts.  Since it can also be used on campus, the TieLine equipment will retire the aging copper campus loop connection to Athletics.

In the Fall of 2010, WQSU installed Barrix Instreamer/Exstreamer equipment to broadcast the SU Chapel Service and other performances in Weber Chapel.  The Barrix equipment also utilizes network/IP audio technologies to give near-CD quality audio from the remote site.  The Barrix equipment will retire the aging copper campus loop connection to Weber Chapel.

In addition to having a new website, the radio station itself has also been given a redesign and a much - needed update. Here are some pictures of the new station: