James Madison University
JMU
Harrisonburg, Virginia 22807
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Strong graduate outcomes — known for health sciences
James Madison University is a public institution in Harrisonburg with particular strength in health sciences and business. With an average SAT of 1247, the school attracts a broad applicant pool.
A large campus of 20.5K undergraduates with a 17:1 student-faculty ratio. The urban location puts students at the center of city life.
81% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $69,954 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $21,816.
Rankings
More About This School
Varsity Sports — Dukes
History & Fun Facts
- •Founded in 1908 as a women's college, James Madison University was established by the Virginia General Assembly.
- •In 1914, the name of the university was changed to the State Normal School for Women at Harrisonburg.
- •Authorization to award bachelor's degrees was granted in 1916.
- •In 1977, the university's name was changed to James Madison University.
Source: Wikipedia
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Admissions
SAT Score Ranges
Average: 1247
ACT Score Range
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Deadline Calendar
Typical Application Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
70.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
2.5%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$17,272
Programs (94)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
90%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
155
Peer Average
240
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
24/7 campus police department, blue-light phone network, emergency mass notification system
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from VA state average + city premium
Climate (School Year)
Nearest Cities
Getting There
Nearest Airports
Distance to Cities
Visit Planning
Nearby Hotels
Plan Your Visit
Days out near Harrisonburg
NewTwo or three colleges you can see in one day around Harrisonburg, from real bookable tour times.
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