James Madison University
JMU
Harrisonburg, Virginia 22807
Data last updated: May 29, 2026
Campus Vibe
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.
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Admissions
SAT Score Ranges
Average: 1247
ACT Score Range
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
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
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).
Programs (94)
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
90%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
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
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
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