| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Founded: 1908 (originally called the State Normal and Industrial School for Women at Harrisonburg)
Type: Public Research University
Motto: "Knowledge is Liberty"
Campus Size: 721 acres
Colors: Purple and Gold
Mascot: Duke Dog
Nickname: The Dukes
JMU was named after James Madison, the fourth president of the United States and one of the Founding Fathers, who is known as the "Father of the Constitution."
James Madison University is recognized for its emphasis on a balanced education that combines strong liberal arts and sciences programs with professional training.
Academic Colleges:
College of Arts and Letters
College of Business (AACSB-accredited)
College of Education
College of Health and Behavioral Studies
College of Integrated Science and Engineering
College of Science and Mathematics
College of Visual and Performing Arts
The Graduate School
Popular Majors: Business, Health Professions, Communication, Psychology, Education, and Engineering.
Student-Faculty Ratio: Approximately 16:1
Accreditation: JMU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
JMU is also noted for its hands-on learning opportunities, undergraduate research, and focus on service-learning.
Consistently ranked as one of the top regional universities in the South by U.S. News & World Report.
Frequently recognized for its strong undergraduate teaching, affordability, and high graduation rates.
JMU's business and engineering programs are particularly well-regarded.
Enrollment: Over 22,000 students, including undergraduate and graduate students.
Student Organizations: More than 450 clubs and organizations, including academic, cultural, service, and recreational groups.
Greek Life: Active Greek system with fraternities and sororities.
Sports: JMU competes in NCAA Division I athletics as part of the Sun Belt Conference. The football team has been especially successful, winning national championships in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS).
Performing Arts: JMU has a vibrant arts scene, with performance opportunities in theater, dance, music, and art galleries.
JMU's campus is known for its scenic beauty, featuring both historic and modern buildings. Key facilities include:
The Forbes Center for the Performing Arts
The University Recreation Center (UREC)
The Student Success Center
A state-of-the-art STEM building for science and engineering disciplines
The Carrier Library and Rose Library
Acceptance Rate: Around 80%, making it moderately selective.
Application Requirements: Typically includes SAT/ACT scores (though test-optional policies may apply), high school transcripts, essays, and letters of recommendation.
Tuition (2023-2024):
In-state: Approximately $13,000 per year
Out-of-state: Approximately $30,000 per year
Financial Aid: JMU offers a range of scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities to assist students.
JMU offers over 150 undergraduate majors, minors, and concentrations in diverse disciplines. Below are the major categories and some popular programs:
1. Arts and Letters
Communication Studies
English
History
International Affairs
Media Arts and Design
Modern Foreign Languages
Philosophy
Political Science
Writing, Rhetoric, and Technical Communication
2. Business
Accounting
Computer Information Systems
Economics
Finance
Hospitality Management
International Business
Marketing
Management
Business Analytics
3. Education
Elementary Education
Middle Education
Secondary Education
Special Education
Inclusive Early Childhood Education
Educational Foundations and Leadership
4. Health and Behavioral Studies
Communication Sciences and Disorders
Health Sciences
Kinesiology
Nursing (BSN)
Psychology
Social Work
5. Integrated Science and Engineering
Computer Science
Engineering (General Engineering)
Geographic Science
Information Analysis
Intelligence Analysis
Integrated Science and Technology (ISAT)
6. Science and Mathematics
Biology
Biotechnology
Chemistry
Environmental Science
Geology
Mathematics
Physics
Statistics
7. Visual and Performing Arts
Architectural Design
Art (Studio Art, Graphic Design)
Dance
Music (Composition, Performance, Education)
Musical Theatre
Theatre
8. Interdisciplinary Studies
Independent Scholars Program
Integrated Science and Technology
Liberal Studies
Public Policy and Administration
JMU offers 60+ master's, educational specialist, doctoral, and certificate programs. Below are the graduate offerings by major areas:
1. Business and Management
MBA (Master of Business Administration) with concentrations in:
Executive Leadership
Information Security
Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Accounting (MS)
Finance (M.S.)
2. Education
Adult Education and Human Resource Development (M.Ed.)
College Student Personnel Administration (M.Ed.)
Educational Leadership (M.Ed.)
Educational Technology (M.Ed.)
Special Education (M.Ed.)
School Counseling (M.Ed.)
Teaching (MAT - Master of Arts in Teaching)
3. Health and Behavioral Studies
Clinical Mental Health Counseling (M.A.)
Occupational Therapy (MOT)
Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS)
Psychological Sciences (M.A.)
Speech-Language Pathology (M.S.)
School Psychology (Ed.S.)
Kinesiology (M.S.)
Public Health (MPH)
4. Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM)
Computer Science (M.S.)
Information Security (M.S.)
Mathematics (M.S.)
Biology (M.S.)
Environmental Management and Sustainability (M.S.)
Integrated Science and Technology (M.S.)
5. Arts and Humanities
Music (M.M. - Master of Music)
Studio Art (M.F.A.)
Writing, Rhetoric, and Technical Communication (M.A.)
English (M.A.)
Political Science (European Union Policy Studies, M.A.)
6. Doctoral Programs
Clinical and School Psychology (Ph.D.)
Communication Sciences and Disorders (Au.D.)
Strategic Leadership (Ph.D.)
Counseling and Supervision (Ph.D.)
Educational Leadership (Ed.D.)
Nursing Practice (DNP)
Course Program |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Accounting (BBA) |
4 years |
In-state: $13,000 | Out-of-state: $30,000 |
|
Biology (BS) |
4 years |
In-state: $13,000 | Out-of-state: $30,000 |
|
Business Administration (BBA) |
4 years |
In-state: $13,000 | Out-of-state: $30,000 |
|
Communication Sciences and Disorders (BS) |
4 years |
In-state: $13,000 | Out-of-state: $30,000 |
|
Computer Science (BS) |
4 years |
In-state: $13,000 | Out-of-state: $30,000 |
|
Economics (BA/BBA) |
4 years |
In-state: $13,000 | Out-of-state: $30,000 |
|
Engineering (BS) |
4 years |
In-state: $13,000 | Out-of-state: $30,000 |
|
English (BA) |
4 years |
In-state: $13,000 | Out-of-state: $30,000 |
|
Finance (BBA) |
4 years |
In-state: $13,000 | Out-of-state: $30,000 |
|
Health Sciences (BS) |
4 years |
In-state: $13,000 | Out-of-state: $30,000 |
|
Hospitality Management (BS) |
4 years |
In-state: $13,000 | Out-of-state: $30,000 |
|
Information Systems (BBA) |
4 years |
In-state: $13,000 | Out-of-state: $30,000 |
|
Intelligence Analysis (BS) |
4 years |
In-state: $13,000 | Out-of-state: $30,000 |
|
International Business (BBA) |
4 years |
In-state: $13,000 | Out-of-state: $30,000 |
|
Kinesiology (BS) |
4 years |
In-state: $13,000 | Out-of-state: $30,000 |
|
Marketing (BBA) |
4 years |
In-state: $13,000 | Out-of-state: $30,000 |
|
Mathematics (BS) |
4 years |
In-state: $13,000 | Out-of-state: $30,000 |
|
Media Arts and Design (BA/BS) |
4 years |
In-state: $13,000 | Out-of-state: $30,000 |
|
Music (BA/BM) |
4 years |
In-state: $13,000 | Out-of-state: $30,000 |
|
Nursing (BSN) |
4 years |
In-state: $13,000 | Out-of-state: $30,000 |
|
Philosophy (BA) |
4 years |
In-state: $13,000 | Out-of-state: $30,000 |
|
Physics (BS) |
4 years |
In-state: $13,000 | Out-of-state: $30,000 |
|
Political Science (BA) |
4 years |
In-state: $13,000 | Out-of-state: $30,000 |
|
Psychology (BS) |
4 years |
In-state: $13,000 | Out-of-state: $30,000 |
|
Public Policy and Administration (BA) |
4 years |
In-state: $13,000 | Out-of-state: $30,000 |
|
Social Work (BSW) |
4 years |
In-state: $13,000 | Out-of-state: $30,000 |
|
Sociology (BA/BS) |
4 years |
In-state: $13,000 | Out-of-state: $30,000 |
|
Studio Art (BFA) |
4 years |
In-state: $13,000 | Out-of-state: $30,000 |
|
Theatre (BA/BFA) |
4 years |
In-state: $13,000 | Out-of-state: $30,000 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Accounting (MS) |
1 year |
In-state: $13,500 | Out-of-state: $32,700 |
|
Biology (MS) |
2 years |
In-state: $13,500 | Out-of-state: $32,700 |
|
Business Administration (MBA) |
2 years (part-time) |
In-state: $13,500 | Out-of-state: $32,700 |
|
Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MA) |
2 years |
In-state: $13,500 | Out-of-state: $32,700 |
|
Communication Sciences and Disorders (MS) |
2 years |
In-state: $13,500 | Out-of-state: $32,700 |
|
Computer Science (MS) |
2 years |
In-state: $13,500 | Out-of-state: $32,700 |
|
Education (M.Ed.) |
1-2 years |
In-state: $13,500 | Out-of-state: $32,700 |
|
Educational Leadership (M.Ed.) |
2 years |
In-state: $13,500 | Out-of-state: $32,700 |
|
Environmental Management and Sustainability (MS) |
2 years |
In-state: $13,500 | Out-of-state: $32,700 |
|
Health Sciences (MPH - Public Health) |
2 years |
In-state: $13,500 | Out-of-state: $32,700 |
|
Integrated Science and Technology (MS) |
2 years |
In-state: $13,500 | Out-of-state: $32,700 |
|
Information Security (MS) |
2 years |
In-state: $13,500 | Out-of-state: $32,700 |
|
Kinesiology (M.S.) |
2 years |
In-state: $13,500 | Out-of-state: $32,700 |
|
Mathematics (MS) |
2 years |
In-state: $13,500 | Out-of-state: $32,700 |
|
Music (MM) |
2 years |
In-state: $13,500 | Out-of-state: $32,700 |
|
Occupational Therapy (MOT) |
2.5 years |
In-state: $13,500 | Out-of-state: $32,700 |
|
Political Science (MA - EU Policy Studies) |
1 year |
In-state: $13,500 | Out-of-state: $32,700 |
|
Psychological Sciences (MA) |
2 years |
In-state: $13,500 | Out-of-state: $32,700 |
|
School Counseling (M.Ed.) |
2 years |
In-state: $13,500 | Out-of-state: $32,700 |
|
Speech-Language Pathology (MS) |
2 years |
In-state: $13,500 | Out-of-state: $32,700 |
|
Studio Art (MFA) |
2-3 years |
In-state: $13,500 | Out-of-state: $32,700 |
|
Writing, Rhetoric, and Technical Communication (MA) |
2 years |
In-state: $13,500 | Out-of-state: $32,700 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Clinical and School Psychology (Ph.D.) |
4-5 years |
In-state: $13,500 | Out-of-state: $32,700 |
|
Communication Sciences and Disorders (Au.D.) |
3-4 years |
In-state: $13,500 | Out-of-state: $32,700 |
|
Counseling and Supervision (Ph.D.) |
3-4 years |
In-state: $13,500 | Out-of-state: $32,700 |
|
Strategic Leadership Studies (Ph.D.) |
3-4 years |
In-state: $13,500 | Out-of-state: $32,700 |
|
Educational Leadership (Ed.D.) |
3-4 years |
In-state: $13,500 | Out-of-state: $32,700 |
|
Nursing Practice (DNP) |
2-3 years (Post-MSN) |
In-state: $13,500 | Out-of-state: $32,700 |
High-Quality Education: JMU is known for its strong academic programs across disciplines such as business, health sciences, engineering, and liberal arts.
Student-Centered Approach: JMU places a strong emphasis on student success and provides ample resources to help international students adapt and thrive academically and socially.
Safe and Beautiful Campus: Located in Harrisonburg, Virginia, JMU’s campus is scenic, safe, and conducive to learning.
Cultural Diversity: Students from over 100 countries attend JMU, contributing to a culturally rich campus community.
Support for International Students: Dedicated resources, including immigration advising, English language support, and cultural programming, are available through the Center for Global Engagement (CGE).
JMU offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in a wide range of disciplines. Popular programs among international students include:
Undergraduate Programs: Business Administration, Computer Science, Engineering, Media Arts and Design, Nursing, and International Affairs.
Graduate Programs: MBA, Public Health, Information Security, Kinesiology, Communication Sciences and Disorders, and more.
1. Application Options
You can apply through:
Coalition Application or
JMU’s Online Application Portal.
2. Application Requirements
Application Form: Complete the online application and pay the application fee ($70).
High School Transcripts: Official transcripts from your high school, showing your GPA and completed coursework.
Standardized Test Scores (Optional):
SAT or ACT scores are optional but may enhance your application.
English Proficiency Scores (International Students):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 81
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 105
Personal Statement or Essay (Optional): A chance to showcase your experiences, goals, and why you want to attend JMU.
Letters of Recommendation (Optional): These are not required for general admission but can strengthen your application.
Additional Documents for Specific Programs: Some majors (e.g., performing arts) may require portfolios or auditions.
3. Deadlines
Early Action (non-binding): November 1 (Admission results by mid-January)
Regular Decision: January 15 (Admission results by early April)
Transfer Students: Applications are typically due March 1 for the fall semester and October 1 for the spring semester.
4. Decision Notification
Decisions are typically released within 6-8 weeks after the application deadline.
1. Application Submission
Submit your application through JMU’s Graduate School Online Portal.
Application Fee: $70.
2. Application Requirements
Bachelor's Degree: You must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
Official Transcripts: Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
English Proficiency Scores (International Students):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 88
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 110
Letters of Recommendation: Typically 2-3 letters, depending on the program.
Personal Statement: A detailed essay explaining your goals and how the program aligns with your career aspirations.
GRE/GMAT Scores: Required for certain programs (e.g., MBA, sciences).
Program-Specific Requirements: Some programs (e.g., MFA, counseling) may require portfolios, auditions, or interviews.
3. Deadlines
Deadlines vary by program but typically fall between December 1 and March 1 for fall admission.
4. Decision Notification
Graduate admission decisions are made by the respective program departments and are typically communicated within 4-8 weeks after submission.
JMU offers two primary intakes for most undergraduate and graduate programs:
Intake |
Application Deadline |
Programs Offered |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall Intake |
- Early Action: November 1 (UG) |
Majority of undergraduate and graduate programs (most popular intake). |
|
|
- Regular Decision: January 15 (UG) |
|
|
|
- Graduate Deadlines: Vary, but typically December - March. |
|
|
Spring Intake |
October 1 (UG & Graduate Programs) |
Limited number of undergraduate and graduate programs. |
Note: Some graduate programs may have additional deadlines or rolling admissions, so always check the program-specific deadlines.
Academic Qualifications:
High School Diploma: Applicants must have successfully completed high school or an equivalent qualification.
GPA: No specific GPA requirement is stated, but competitive applicants typically have a 3.2 - 3.8 GPA (on a 4.0 scale).
SAT/ACT Scores:
JMU is test-optional for most undergraduate programs, so SAT/ACT scores are not mandatory but can be submitted to strengthen your application.
For reference, the middle 50% range of admitted students:
SAT: 1140-1310
ACT: 23-28
Coursework Requirements:
Strong foundation in core academic subjects (English, Math, Science, Social Studies, and Foreign Language).
English Proficiency (for International Students):
If English is not your first language, you need to demonstrate proficiency through one of the following:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 81.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 105.
SAT/ACT English Section: May waive the language test requirement if you meet certain scores.
Academic Qualifications:
Bachelor’s Degree: Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in a related field.
GPA: A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) is typically required, although some programs may have higher GPA expectations.
Standardized Tests:
Some programs require GRE or GMAT scores:
MBA: GMAT score of 500+ (waivers may be available based on work experience or other criteria).
STEM Programs: GRE scores may be required.
Check individual program requirements for details.
English Proficiency (for International Students):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 88.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 110.
Program-Specific Requirements:
Letters of Recommendation: Typically 2-3 letters are required.
Statement of Purpose (SOP)/Essay: Outlining academic and professional goals.
Portfolio/Audition: Required for certain creative or performing arts programs (e.g., Studio Art, Music, Theater).
Resume/CV: May be required for certain professional programs.
Ranking Platform |
Rank/Category |
|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Not Ranked in the Global Rankings |
|
QS Regional Rankings |
Ranked among Top U.S. Universities |
|
US News - National Universities |
Ranked in the Top 150 National Universities in the USA |
|
US News - Regional (South) |
Consistently ranked as a Top 10 Public School in the South |
|
US News - Undergraduate Business Programs |
Ranked in the Top 100 Business Programs |
|
Forbes - America’s Top Colleges |
Listed in Top 250 Colleges in the U.S. |
|
Princeton Review |
Listed as one of the Best Colleges in the Southeast |
|
Niche Rankings |
Rated A for Academics, Value, and Campus Life |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Award Amount (USD) |
Application Process |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Madison Award for Academic Excellence |
Incoming undergraduate students with strong academic performance (merit-based). |
up to full tuition |
Automatically considered with admission application. |
|
Second Century Scholarship |
Virginia residents pursuing majors in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math). |
Up to $10,000 per year |
Automatically considered; no separate application required. |
|
Dingledine Scholarship |
High-achieving first-year undergraduate students with leadership and community involvement. |
$12,000 (renewable for 4 years) |
Requires a separate scholarship application by January 15. |
|
Centennial Scholars Program |
Students with financial need and strong academic achievements (requires FAFSA submission). |
Full tuition and fees |
Separate application and FAFSA submission required. |
|
JMU Foundation Scholarships |
Various scholarships for students meeting specific criteria (academic, athletic, etc.). |
N/A |
Apply through JMU’s Scholarship System after enrollment. |
|
Honors College Scholarships |
Students accepted into the JMU Honors College with outstanding academic records. |
$1,000–$5,000 |
Automatically considered with Honors College application. |
|
Study Abroad Scholarships |
Students participating in JMU-sponsored study abroad programs. |
Up to $2,000 |
Apply through JMU’s Center for Global Engagement. |
|
Graduate Assistantships (GA) |
Graduate students who work as teaching or research assistants. |
Tuition waiver + stipend |
Apply through your graduate program after admission. |
|
International Student Scholarship |
Outstanding academic performance and financial need (for international students). |
$1,000–$5,000 |
Submit separate application to JMU's International Office. |
|
Madison Forever Scholarship |
Current students who encounter unexpected financial hardships. |
N/A |
Apply through the Office of Financial Aid. |
|
Athletic Scholarships |
Outstanding athletes recruited for NCAA Division I sports teams. |
(up to full tuition) |
Awarded by the JMU Athletics Department. |
Accommodation Type |
Features |
Cost per Year (USD) (2023-2024) |
|---|---|---|
|
Traditional Residence Halls |
- Shared rooms (2-3 students per room) |
$5,894 – $6,900 |
|
|
- Common bathrooms |
|
|
|
- Fully furnished (bed, desk, wardrobe, etc.) |
|
|
|
- Close to dining facilities and academic buildings |
|
|
Suite-Style Residence Halls |
- Semi-private living with 2-4 students per suite |
$7,084 – $7,796 |
|
|
- Shared bathroom within the suite |
|
|
|
- Common areas for studying and socializing |
|
|
Apartment-Style Housing |
- Independent-style living with private/shared bedrooms |
$8,296 – $9,450 |
|
|
- Includes kitchen, living area, and private bathroom |
|
|
|
- Preferred by upperclassmen |
|
|
The Village |
- Cluster of residence halls with traditional room layout |
$5,894 – $6,900 |
|
|
- Community-style bathrooms and shared spaces |
|
|
Off-Campus Apartments |
- Independent apartments located near campus |
$6,000 – $12,000 (varies) |
|
|
- Includes private or shared bedrooms, kitchen, and living room |
|
|
Living-Learning Communities |
- Themed housing for students in specific majors or interests (e.g., STEM, Honors, Sustainability) |
Costs vary (based on hall type) |
|
|
- Opportunities for academic and social engagement |
JMU offers a variety of meal plan options for students living on campus. These are optional for off-campus students. The cost of meal plans for 2023-2024 is as follows:
Meal Plan |
Features |
Cost per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
10 Punch Plan |
10 meals per week, includes dining dollars |
$2,968 |
|
14 Punch Plan |
14 meals per week, includes dining dollars |
$3,634 |
|
19 Punch Plan |
Unlimited meals per week, includes dining dollars |
$4,214 |
|
Flex Plan |
Flexible dining options with dining dollars only (for upperclassmen or commuters) |
$400 – $2,200 |
Campus Community and Atmosphere
JMU’s campus, located in the scenic Shenandoah Valley in Harrisonburg, Virginia, is often described as friendly, welcoming, and supportive. The university emphasizes the “student-centered” approach, ensuring that students feel valued and supported in all aspects of their college journey.
The student body is diverse, with students from all 50 U.S. states and more than 100 countries. This diversity enriches the campus culture, exposing students to different perspectives and experiences.
Student Organizations and Clubs
JMU offers over 450 student organizations and clubs, catering to a wide range of interests, including academics, arts, culture, sports, community service, and hobbies. Examples include:
Academic and professional groups (e.g., Society of Women Engineers, Marketing Association).
Cultural and identity-based organizations (e.g., Black Student Alliance, Latinx Student Alliance, International Student Association).
Creative groups like theater productions, a cappella groups, and dance teams.
Special interest clubs (e.g., hiking, gaming, robotics, photography).
Students can also create their own organizations if they have a unique interest or passion not currently represented.
Greek Life
Greek life is a significant part of the JMU experience for many students, with more than 25 fraternities and sororities active on campus. These organizations focus on leadership, service, scholarship, and creating lifelong friendships.
About 20% of the student body participates in Greek life, making it a popular option for social and philanthropic involvement.
Recreation and Athletics
University Recreation Center (UREC): A state-of-the-art facility offering fitness classes, weight training, swimming, and courts for basketball, volleyball, and racquetball. Outdoor adventure programs, like hiking trips and kayaking, are also organized by UREC.
Intramural and Club Sports: JMU offers a variety of intramural sports (soccer, basketball, flag football, etc.) and club sports (rugby, ultimate frisbee, equestrian) for students who want to stay active without competing at the NCAA level.
NCAA Division I Sports: JMU has a robust athletics program, and the Dukes compete in the Sun Belt Conference. Popular sports include football, basketball, soccer, and lacrosse. Attending games is a big part of student life, fostering school spirit and camaraderie.
Performing Arts and Entertainment
Forbes Center for the Performing Arts: Hosts concerts, theater productions, dance performances, and guest lectures. Students often participate in or attend performances here.
Student-run groups, like a cappella teams, theater ensembles, and dance crews, perform regularly on campus.
JMU organizes concerts, comedy shows, and cultural events, bringing in notable performers and speakers.
Cultural and Social Events
JMU has a strong tradition of student-led events and campus-wide celebrations, including:
Madipalooza: An annual spring festival with live music, games, and food.
Homecoming Week: Packed with events, parades, and football games to celebrate school pride.
International Week: A celebration of global cultures through food, performances, and discussions.
Dining and Housing
JMU’s dining services are ranked among the best in the nation, offering a variety of meal options, including international cuisines, vegan and vegetarian choices, and traditional comfort foods. Popular dining locations include D-Hall (Dining Hall) and Market One.
On-campus housing includes traditional dormitories, suite-style residences, and apartment-style living options. Housing is comfortable and offers spaces for studying and socializing. Living-learning communities allow students to live with peers who share academic or extracurricular interests.
Support for Students
JMU provides robust student support services, including:
Counseling Center: Free mental health services, workshops, and wellness resources.
Academic Advising: Support for course selection, degree planning, and career development.
Center for Multicultural Student Services (CMSS): Offers resources and events to promote diversity, inclusion, and equity on campus.
Center for Global Engagement: Provides services for international students and study abroad opportunities.
Study Abroad Opportunities
JMU is a leader in study abroad programs, with many students participating in programs in Florence, London, and other global destinations. These programs offer the chance to gain international experience while earning academic credit.
Harrisonburg – The College Town
Harrisonburg, often called "The Friendly City," is a small yet lively town offering a variety of restaurants, shops, outdoor activities, and cultural attractions.
Students enjoy exploring Shenandoah National Park and other nearby outdoor recreation areas for hiking, camping, and skiing.
School Spirit and Traditions
JMU is known for its strong school spirit, with students and alumni proudly identifying as Dukes.
Traditions like cheering at football games, wearing purple on Fridays, and participating in community service events foster a deep sense of belonging.
JMU boasts strong placement outcomes, with many students securing jobs, internships, or pursuing graduate school shortly after graduation:
Employment Rate: Approximately 95% of graduates are employed, pursuing further education, or engaged in other activities (such as military service) within six months of graduation.
Internship Rate: More than 75% of students complete at least one internship during their time at JMU, contributing to their career readiness.
Median Starting Salary: The average starting salary for JMU graduates is around $55,000 - $65,000 per year, depending on the program and industry.
JMU graduates are highly sought after by employers due to their hands-on learning experience and strong problem-solving skills. Some of the top companies and organizations recruiting from JMU include:
Business & Finance: Deloitte, KPMG, Ernst & Young (EY), PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), Capital One, and Bank of America.
Technology & Engineering: Amazon, Microsoft, Northrop Grumman, General Electric (GE), and IBM.
Healthcare: Sentara Healthcare, Inova Health System, and various hospitals and health organizations.
Education: Public and private schools across Virginia and beyond, as well as nonprofit organizations.
Media & Communication: Discovery Communications, The Washington Post, and regional media outlets.
Government & Public Sector: CIA, FBI, U.S. Department of State, and state/local government agencies.
JMU’s University Career Center (UCC) plays a central role in preparing students for internships and full-time employment. Services provided include:
Career Fairs: JMU hosts multiple career fairs annually, connecting students with 500+ employers.
Resume and Cover Letter Assistance: Personalized help to craft professional resumes and cover letters.
Mock Interviews: Students can practice with career counselors or use virtual platforms to prepare for interviews.
Handshake Platform: JMU uses Handshake, an online tool where students can search for jobs, internships, and connect with employers.
Job Shadowing Opportunities: Programs that allow students to observe professionals in their field of interest.
Employer Info Sessions: Opportunities to network with recruiters and learn more about potential employers.
Placement success varies by major, with certain programs standing out due to strong industry demand:
Field of Study |
Placement Rate |
Notable Industries |
|---|---|---|
|
Business (Accounting, Finance, Marketing) |
~97% employed or in grad school |
Finance, consulting, banking, and management. |
|
Engineering (General Engineering) |
~95% employed |
Aerospace, manufacturing, and technology. |
|
Nursing (BSN) |
~100% employed or in grad school |
Healthcare and hospital systems. |
|
Computer Science |
~96% employed |
Software development, IT, cybersecurity. |
|
Media Arts and Design |
~90% employed |
Journalism, digital media, advertising. |
|
Education |
~98% employed |
Public and private schools, educational services. |
|
Health Sciences and Kinesiology |
~94% employed or in grad school |
Physical therapy, public health, sports management. |
|
Psychology |
~92% employed or in grad school |
Mental health services, human resources. |
|
Political Science & International Affairs |
~91% employed or in grad school |
Government, policy research, non-profits. |
Graduate Schools: Many JMU graduates pursue advanced degrees at prestigious institutions, such as Harvard University, University of Virginia, George Washington University, and Johns Hopkins University.
Strong Alumni Network: JMU’s alumni network spans globally, with active participation in mentoring and providing job referrals to current students.
Internships are a key focus at JMU, helping students gain hands-on experience and build professional networks:
Internships are offered across industries such as technology, finance, healthcare, media, and government.
JMU works closely with regional businesses, national organizations, and startups to secure internship placements for students.
Many internships lead directly to job offers, especially in programs like Business, Computer Science, and Nursing.
GPA: Most admitted students have a high school GPA between 3.2 and 3.8.
Holistic Review: Beyond academics, JMU values leadership, community involvement, and other personal achievements.
Virginia Residents: As a public university, JMU gives preference to in-state (Virginia) residents, but out-of-state and international students are also warmly welcomed.
James Madison University
800 S. Main Street,
Harrisonburg, Virginia, 22807,
United States.
