Overview
Enrollment
Best Colleges Rank
| Location | Harrisonburg, Virginia |
| Online | jmu.edu |
| School Type | Public 4 Year |
| Setting | Small City |
| Size | Large |
| Status | Non-profit |
| On Campus Housing | Yes |
| Level of Study | Undergrad/Graduate |
James Madison University (JMU), established in 1908, is a public research university nestled in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley in Harrisonburg, Virginia, about two hours from Washington, D.C. Known for its picturesque campus with a blend of classic and modern architectural styles, JMU provides a range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. Notably, the university is recognized for its programs in business, health, and social sciences. JMU operates on a selective admissions process and offers on-campus housing options to foster a vibrant residential community. The campus atmosphere is characterized by a combination of academic focus and involvement in over 300 clubs and organizations. While JMU has a broad array of athletic teams known as the Dukes, it is particularly acknowledged for its strong programs in football and basketball.
In the most recent statistical year 30,727 prospective students applied, and 24,062 were granted admission. Of those admitted 4,863 enrolled in the school. 19,984 students are enrolled on a full time basis, and 2,240 attend part time. In-state tuition for 2022/2023, excluding room and board, is $7,684 plus fees of $5,408. JMU is ranked 260 nationally in the CollegeSimply.com 2024 U.S. Colleges Ranking.
Ratings
Overall
Academics
Resources
Outcomes
Value
JMU is rated within the top 34% of four-year colleges nationally and earns a CollegeSimply grade of 7 out of 10. Learn how ratings are calculated
Rankings
Rankings for James Madison University within the 2024 CollegeSimply Best Colleges Lists.
#260 in Best Colleges in the U.S.
#67 in Best Public Colleges in the U.S.
#9 in Best Colleges in Virginia
#6 in Best Public Colleges in Virginia
#445 in Best Value Colleges in the U.S.
#10 in Best Value Colleges in Virginia
View the CollegeSimply ranking methodology.
Getting In
Admission Standards
| SAT | 1140/1320 |
| ACT | 23/29 |
| Estimated GPA | 3.57 |
Applications Accepted
| Applications Due | Jan 15, 2024 |
| Applicant Competition | Very Low |
| Application Fee | $70 |
Annual Cost to Attend
Virginia Resident Tuition
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| Books and Supplies | $1,176 |
| Other Fees | $5,408 |
| Room and Board | $12,040 |
| Budget for Other Expenses | $4,200 |
| Total One Year Cost | $30,508 |
Out of State Resident Tuition
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| Books and Supplies | $1,176 |
| Other Fees | $5,408 |
| Room and Board | $12,040 |
| Budget for Other Expenses | $4,200 |
| Total One Year Cost | $47,568 |
Outcomes
Average Salary After 10 Years
Bachelor's Degree Graduation Rate
Popular Areas of Study
| Subject | Percent of Class |
|---|---|
| Business | 16% |
| Health Professions | 13% |
| Social Sciences | 10% |
| Communication | 10% |
| Visual and Performing Arts | 6% |
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Students considering JMU are frequently interested in these similar colleges.
Primary data source, U.S. Department of Education https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?id=232423 IPEDS survey data for James Madison University.
Current students may use the James Madison University GPA calculator to determine their current college GPA.