James Madison University
JMU: Educating enlightened citizens for meaningful lives.
📍 Harrisonburg, United States 🇺🇸
🏆 #70 in United States · QS World #181 · THE World #1001
Quick Facts about James Madison University
- Founded: 1908
- Type: Public
- Students: 22,224
- Campus: Small city
- Tuition: $27,000 – $38,000/year
- Language: English
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
- Intakes: January, August
About James Madison University
James Madison University (JMU), located in Harrisonburg, Virginia, is a public research university offering a comprehensive range of academic programs. With a strong emphasis on undergraduate education, JMU fosters a student-centered learning environment where engaged learning and critical thinking are highly valued. The university aims to prepare students to be educated and enlightened citizens who lead productive and meaningful lives.
Academics
JMU offers over 70 majors and more than 130 programs across its seven colleges, including Arts and Letters, Business, Education, Health and Behavioral Studies, Integrated Science and Engineering, Science and Mathematics, and Visual and Performing Arts. Notable programs include Integrated Science and Technology (ISAT), Communication and Media Studies, Business, Health Sciences, and Education, all of which emphasize hands-on experiences and real-world application. The university is known for its high-quality education across disciplines and a student-centered approach.
International Students
James Madison University provides a welcoming environment for international students, with support services offered through International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS). ISSS assists with visa and immigration matters, offers programs to enhance students' time at JMU, and provides educational programs for the entire campus community. While specific diversity statistics for the current year were not immediately available, in 2020, JMU was home to approximately 318 international students from at least 43 countries, with the largest communities from China, Vietnam, and South Korea. International students can also engage in various student organizations, including the GLOBAL International Student Organization, which provides support and community.
Campus & Location
JMU's campus is situated in Harrisonburg, Virginia, a city nestled in the picturesque Shenandoah Valley. Harrisonburg offers a blend of city amenities and small-town charm, with a vibrant downtown featuring diverse restaurants, shops, and arts and entertainment venues. The area is rich in outdoor recreational opportunities like hiking, mountain biking, and water sports. The campus itself offers on-campus housing, and the city's diverse community, where over 44 languages are spoken, makes it a welcoming place for international students.
Career Outcomes
James Madison University demonstrates strong career outcomes for its graduates. For the Class of 2024, 95.0% of bachelor's degree recipients achieved a career outcome within six months of graduation, with 72.8% employed and 22.2% continuing their education. Similarly, 96.7% of advanced degree recipients achieved a career outcome. The University Career Center (UCC) provides extensive support, including career advising, resume and interview preparation, and job search resources, with specific assistance for international students. Popular employment locations for graduates include Virginia, Washington D.C., New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey.
Information for International Students at James Madison University
James Madison University in Harrisonburg, United States welcomes international students.
- Visa support available
- On-campus work allowed
- Student housing available
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English
Admissions Requirements for James Madison University
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to James Madison University:
- IELTS minimum: 6.5
- TOEFL minimum: 81
- Duolingo minimum: 120
- GPA minimum: 2.8
- Application fee: $70
- Selectivity: Open (60%+)
- Application deadline: January 15
Programs at James Madison University (42 programs)
James Madison University offers 42 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (21)
- English (BA) — 48 months · English
The English program cultivates critical thinking, analytical reading, and effective writing skills through the study of literature, rhetoric, and language, preparing students for diverse careers requiring strong communication abilities.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Writer, Editor, Teacher, Communications Specialist - Political Science (BA) — 48 months · English
The Political Science program examines political systems, theories, and behaviors, covering areas such as international relations, public policy, and comparative politics, preparing students for careers in government, law, and public service.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Policy Analyst, Lobbyist, Campaign Manager, Foreign Service Officer - Computer Science (BS) — 48 months · English · STEM
The Computer Science program focuses on the theoretical foundations of computation and practical techniques for designing, developing, and analyzing software and hardware systems, preparing students for diverse roles in the tech industry.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Web Developer, Data Scientist, Cybersecurity Analyst - Marketing (BBA) — 48 months · English
The Marketing program teaches students how to create, communicate, deliver, and exchange offerings that have value for customers, clients, partners, and society at large, covering areas like market research, consumer behavior, and digital marketing.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Marketing Manager, Market Research Analyst, Brand Manager, Sales Manager - Psychology (BA) — 48 months · English
The Psychology program explores human behavior and mental processes through scientific inquiry, covering topics like cognitive psychology, social psychology, developmental psychology, and abnormal psychology.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Counselor, Researcher, Human Resources Specialist, Social Worker - Music (BM) — 48 months · English
The Music program offers comprehensive training in performance, music theory, history, and composition, fostering artistic expression and preparing students for careers in music education, performance, or other music-related fields.
Field: Arts
Career outcomes: Musician, Music Educator, Composer, Arts Administrator - Accounting (BBA) — 48 months · English
The Accounting program provides students with a strong foundation in financial accounting, managerial accounting, auditing, and taxation, preparing them for careers in public accounting, corporate finance, and government.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Auditor, Tax Accountant, Financial Analyst, Controller - Nursing (BSN) — 48 months · English · STEM
The Nursing program prepares students for professional nursing practice, emphasizing patient-centered care, clinical skills, critical thinking, and ethical decision-making in various healthcare settings.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Nurse Practitioner (with further education), Clinical Nurse Specialist - Health Sciences (BS) — 48 months · English · STEM
The Health Sciences program provides a foundational understanding of health, disease, and healthcare systems, preparing students for a wide range of health-related professions or further graduate studies.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Public Health Specialist, Health Educator, Healthcare Administrator, Medical Assistant - Biology (BS) — 48 months · English · STEM
The Biology program offers a comprehensive study of living organisms, covering areas such as genetics, ecology, cell biology, and physiology, preparing students for graduate studies or careers in research, healthcare, and environmental science.
Field: Science
Career outcomes: Biologist, Research Assistant, Environmental Scientist, Healthcare Professional - Art History (BA) — 48 months · English
The Art History program explores the history of art and visual culture across different periods and regions, developing critical thinking and analytical skills for careers in museums, galleries, and academia.
Field: Arts
Career outcomes: Art Curator, Museum Educator, Art Critic, Archivist - Justice Studies (BA) — 48 months · English
The Justice Studies program examines the complexities of justice systems, including law, crime, and social justice issues, preparing students for careers in law enforcement, legal professions, and social advocacy.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Police Officer, Paralegal, Corrections Officer, Social Advocate - Media Arts and Design (BA) — 48 months · English
The Media Arts and Design program explores various forms of media, including digital media, journalism, and strategic communication, fostering creativity and technical skills for careers in media production and communication.
Field: Arts
Career outcomes: Journalist, Graphic Designer, Filmmaker, Public Relations Specialist - Engineering (BS) — 48 months · English · STEM
The Engineering program offers a broad interdisciplinary curriculum, emphasizing design, problem-solving, and hands-on experience across various engineering disciplines, preparing students for diverse engineering careers.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Mechanical Engineer, Electrical Engineer, Civil Engineer, Systems Engineer - Writing, Rhetoric and Technical Communication (BA) — 48 months · English
This program focuses on developing advanced writing, rhetorical, and technical communication skills, preparing students for careers in professional writing, editing, content creation, and technical documentation.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Technical Writer, Editor, Content Strategist, Grant Writer - Biology (BS) — 48 months · English · STEM
The Biology program offers a comprehensive study of living organisms, covering areas such as genetics, ecology, cell biology, and physiology, preparing students for graduate studies or careers in research, healthcare, and environmental science.
Field: Science
Career outcomes: Biologist, Research Assistant, Environmental Scientist, Healthcare Professional - Art History (BA) — 48 months · English
The Art History program explores the history of art and visual culture across different periods and regions, developing critical thinking and analytical skills for careers in museums, galleries, and academia.
Field: Arts
Career outcomes: Art Curator, Museum Educator, Art Critic, Archivist - Justice Studies (BA) — 48 months · English
The Justice Studies program examines the complexities of justice systems, including law, crime, and social justice issues, preparing students for careers in law enforcement, legal professions, and social advocacy.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Police Officer, Paralegal, Corrections Officer, Social Advocate - Media Arts and Design (BA) — 48 months · English
The Media Arts and Design program explores various forms of media, including digital media, journalism, and strategic communication, fostering creativity and technical skills for careers in media production and communication.
Field: Arts
Career outcomes: Journalist, Graphic Designer, Filmmaker, Public Relations Specialist - Engineering (BS) — 48 months · English · STEM
The Engineering program offers a broad interdisciplinary curriculum, emphasizing design, problem-solving, and hands-on experience across various engineering disciplines, preparing students for diverse engineering careers.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Mechanical Engineer, Electrical Engineer, Civil Engineer, Systems Engineer - Writing, Rhetoric and Technical Communication (BA) — 48 months · English
This program focuses on developing advanced writing, rhetorical, and technical communication skills, preparing students for careers in professional writing, editing, content creation, and technical documentation.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Technical Writer, Editor, Content Strategist, Grant Writer
Master Programs (15)
- Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Educational Leadership (M.Ed.) — 24 months · English
The M.Ed. in Educational Leadership prepares aspiring and current educational leaders for roles in schools and educational organizations, focusing on curriculum development, school administration, and educational policy.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: School Principal, Assistant Principal, Curriculum Coordinator, District Administrator - Master of Science in Computer Science (MS) — 24 months · English · STEM
This Master's program in Computer Science offers advanced study in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, software engineering, and data science, preparing students for specialized technical roles or doctoral studies.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Senior Software Engineer, AI Engineer, Cybersecurity Architect, Data Scientist - Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MS) — 24 months · English · STEM
The MS in Speech-Language Pathology prepares students to diagnose and treat communication and swallowing disorders across the lifespan, leading to certification as a speech-language pathologist.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Speech-Language Pathologist, Audiologist (with further specialization), Clinical Researcher - Master of Arts in Writing, Rhetoric and Technical Communication (MA) — 24 months · English
This MA program develops advanced skills in writing, rhetorical analysis, and technical communication, preparing students for careers in professional writing, editing, and communication management.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Technical Writer, Editor, Content Strategist, Communications Manager - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) (MSN) — 24 months · English · STEM
The MSN program prepares advanced practice nurses and nurse leaders, with specializations in areas like family nurse practitioner, nurse educator, or nursing administration, focusing on advanced clinical skills and leadership.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, Nursing Administrator, Clinical Nurse Specialist - Master of Public Administration (MPA) (MPA) — 24 months · English
The MPA program prepares students for leadership and management roles in public and non-profit organizations, focusing on public policy, public finance, and organizational behavior.
Field: Public Administration
Career outcomes: City Manager, Policy Analyst, Non-profit Director, Government Administrator - Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 24 months · English
The MBA program provides advanced business education, focusing on leadership, strategic management, finance, marketing, and operations, preparing graduates for executive and managerial roles in diverse industries.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Business Consultant, Marketing Manager, Financial Manager, Operations Manager - Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (MS) — 27 months · English · STEM
This Physician Assistant program trains students to become highly skilled healthcare providers, capable of diagnosing illnesses, developing treatment plans, and assisting in surgical procedures under the supervision of a physician.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Physician Assistant, Medical Practitioner, Clinical Specialist - Speech-Language Pathology (MS) — 24 months · English · STEM
The Speech-Language Pathology program prepares students to assess, diagnose, and treat communication and swallowing disorders across the lifespan, leading to certification as a speech-language pathologist.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Speech-Language Pathologist, Clinical Researcher, Educator - Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MA) — 36 months · English
The Clinical Mental Health Counseling program prepares students to become licensed professional counselors, focusing on assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, and therapeutic interventions for individuals and groups.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Licensed Professional Counselor, Mental Health Therapist, Crisis Intervention Specialist - Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Educational Leadership (M.Ed.) — 24 months · English
The M.Ed. in Educational Leadership prepares aspiring and current educational leaders for roles in schools and educational organizations, focusing on curriculum development, school administration, and educational policy.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: School Principal, Assistant Principal, Curriculum Coordinator, District Administrator - Master of Science in Computer Science (MS) — 24 months · English · STEM
This Master's program in Computer Science offers advanced study in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, software engineering, and data science, preparing students for specialized technical roles or doctoral studies.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Senior Software Engineer, AI Engineer, Cybersecurity Architect, Data Scientist - Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (MS) — 27 months · English · STEM
This Physician Assistant program trains students to become highly skilled healthcare providers, capable of diagnosing illnesses, developing treatment plans, and assisting in surgical procedures under the supervision of a physician.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Physician Assistant, Medical Practitioner, Clinical Specialist - Speech-Language Pathology (MS) — 24 months · English · STEM
The Speech-Language Pathology program prepares students to assess, diagnose, and treat communication and swallowing disorders across the lifespan, leading to certification as a speech-language pathologist.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Speech-Language Pathologist, Clinical Researcher, Educator - Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MA) — 36 months · English
The Clinical Mental Health Counseling program prepares students to become licensed professional counselors, focusing on assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, and therapeutic interventions for individuals and groups.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Licensed Professional Counselor, Mental Health Therapist, Crisis Intervention Specialist
PhD Programs (5)
- Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology (PsyD) — 60 months · English
The PsyD program in Clinical Psychology prepares students for careers as practicing clinical psychologists, focusing on assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders through extensive clinical training and research.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Clinical Psychologist, Therapist, Counselor, Psychological Consultant - Doctor of Philosophy in Integrated Science and Technology (PhD) — 60 months · English · STEM
The PhD in Integrated Science and Technology is an interdisciplinary program focusing on complex societal problems that require solutions from multiple scientific and technological fields, emphasizing research and innovation.
Field: Interdisciplinary
Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Policy Advisor, Technology Innovator - Doctor of Philosophy in Strategic Leadership (PhD) — 60 months · English
The PhD in Strategic Leadership program develops scholars and practitioners who can contribute to the theory and practice of leadership through rigorous research and advanced study of organizational dynamics, ethics, and change management.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Organizational Consultant, Executive Leader, Policy Analyst - Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology (PsyD) — 60 months · English
The PsyD program in Clinical Psychology prepares students for careers as practicing clinical psychologists, focusing on assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders through extensive clinical training and research.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Clinical Psychologist, Therapist, Counselor, Psychological Consultant - Doctor of Philosophy in Strategic Leadership (PhD) — 60 months · English
The PhD in Strategic Leadership program develops scholars and practitioners who can contribute to the theory and practice of leadership through rigorous research and advanced study of organizational dynamics, ethics, and change management.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Organizational Consultant, Executive Leader, Policy Analyst
Scholarships & Tuition at James Madison University
Annual tuition for international students: $27,000 – $38,000/year
✅ James Madison University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of James Madison University
- National Ranking: #70 in United States
- QS World University Ranking: #181
- Times Higher Education (THE): #1001
- Ranking tier: Research University
- Research output: High
Campus & Facilities at James Madison University
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Small city
- Average class size: 25
Key Highlights
- Strong undergraduate focus
- Comprehensive academic programs
- Student-centered learning environment
- Picturesque Shenandoah Valley location
- Supportive international student community
Accreditation
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- ABET, Incorporated
- AACSB International – The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- American Chemical Society
- Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics
- Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education
- American Psychological Association
- Association for Advancement of Health Education
- Association for Information Technology Professionals
- Association of University Health Programs in Health Administration
- Accreditation Review Commission on Education for Physician Assistants, Inc.
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- National Association of Schools of Art and Design Commission on Accreditation
- Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
Notable Alumni
- Kevin Blair
- David Little
- Sade Namei
- Glen North
- Ali Hoxie
Frequently Asked Questions about James Madison University
What is James Madison University?
James Madison University is a public university located in Harrisonburg, United States, founded in 1908. It has approximately 22,224 students.
How much does it cost to study at James Madison University?
Tuition fees at James Madison University for international students range from $27,000 – $38,000/year. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for James Madison University?
IELTS minimum: 6.5. TOEFL minimum: 81. Duolingo minimum: 120. GPA minimum: 2.8. Application fee: $70. Selectivity: Open (60%+). Application deadline: January 15.
What language are courses taught in at James Madison University?
Courses at James Madison University are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.5.
How many programs does James Madison University offer?
James Madison University offers 42 programs: 21 Bachelor's, 15 Master's, and 5 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is James Madison University ranked?
#70 in United States · QS World #181 · THE World #1001.
Does James Madison University offer scholarships?
Yes, James Madison University offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does James Madison University provide visa support?
Yes, James Madison University provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.
Apply to James Madison University with Abroadly
Use Abroadly's AI-powered platform to manage your application to James Madison University. Get matched to programs, track deadlines, and organize documents — all in one place.