James Madison University (JMU) or James Madison was founded in 1908, James Madison University is a public university located in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. JMU is fast becoming one of the nation’s leading lights in higher education because students enjoy unusually engaged relationships with world-class faculty who are here because they want to pursue knowledge and make teaching their No. 1 priority.
JMU graduates are far more than merely educated. More than 20,000 students come to study at JMU. Members of a fellowship of doers, they know how to make things happen. They’ve honed their ability to think critically. They’ve learned the importance of a strong work ethic and have become committed to and skilled at collaborating with others. Diplomas in hand, they leave campus determined to live lives of meaning and pursue careers of purpose. From day one to graduation, we are here to help you work harder than you have imagined, learn new things about the world around you and, perhaps most importantly, learn new things about yourself. With more than 130 degree programs, there is plenty to explore.
The university was awarded #1 most innovative university in the south by U.S. News & World Report and 80% of JMU students do undergraduate research, an internship, a practicum or student teach. In addition, JMU received the 1st Best College for Employment in Virginia according to U.S. Department of Education statistics compiled by Zippia. JMU has the highest post-graduation job levels of all Virginia colleges.
Students involved with JMU’s Center for Entrepreneurship spent a summer working on their business ventures, allowing them to organize their ideas and finalize a clear vision. The following September, nine of those groups showcased their ventures including ideas, such as a ride service and an inclusive music festival, to investors, judges and senior members of the campus community.
Location
Harrisonburg, Virginia (USA)
Harrisonburg is an incredibly diverse community, with the variety of a larger city and the charm of a small town. The natural beauty of the area combined with a focus on local businesses, food, and people create an environment that makes it easy to see what makes Harrisonburg such a great place to be.
The historic downtown district is one of the most popular parts of Harrisonburg and offers more than 25 restaurants, 45 shops, vibrant arts and entertainment, and a number of community events throughout the year. Locally-owned and operated restaurants feature a variety of ethnic cuisines, including traditional Americana, Asian Fusion, Caribbean, Cuban, Ethiopian, Indian, Mexican, and Venezuelan. Local shops provide the opportunity to browse for everything from boutique clothing and accessories, handmade jewelry, and international fair-trade items, to antiques and vintage home goods, recreation equipment, records, and musical instruments. The Harrisonburg Farmers Market has received national recognition and the Friendly City Food Co-op provides workshops and a place to shop for local produce and groceries.
Our students come from major cities and small towns. They come from Virginia and 45 other states, and they hail from more than 50 different countries. Participation in clubs and organizations is a great way to relieve stress, find new friends and discover new ways of thinking. The options run the gamut at JMU because we know that participating in clubs helps a student with many facets of his or her outside-the-classroom preparation for life.
School & Faculty
- Arts and Letters
- Business
- Education
- Health and Behavioral Studies
- Integrated Science and Engineering
- Science and Mathematics
- Visual and Performing Arts
- Honors College
- The Graduate School
