James Madison University
James Madison University is a public university in Harrisonburg, VA ranked #237 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of A-, enrolling about 20,888 undergraduates, and with an acceptance rate near 71.5%. Students most often pursue Finance and Financial Management Services and Information Science/Studies.
Academically, students benefit from a 17:1 student-faculty ratio, 92.0% first-year retention, and 79.7% six-year graduation. Peer cohorts and advising networks provide scaffolding that keeps newcomers anchored during demanding semesters.
Families typically invest $23,322, about $6,324 more than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at -38.4%, roughly 123.7 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $57,438. That's about $13,750 higher than national results. It's a compelling fit for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
James Madison University has an acceptance rate of 71.5%, annual tuition of $14,250, average net price of $23,322, and a national rank of #237 (Grade A-), with a 79.7% six-year graduation rate, about 20,888 undergraduates, and median earnings of $57,438 six years after enrollment. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.
Who is James Madison University Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
James Madison University graduates 79.7% of students within six years and keeps 92.0% of first-year students. Affordability earns a C+ compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use James Madison University's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $14,250 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,298 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $13,056 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $4,672 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $31,735 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 17.1% of James Madison University students receive Pell Grants — below the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $11,444 to $30,147 depending on family income. Use James Madison University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $22,343/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $30,147/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $57,438
- 10-Year Median Earnings $57,438
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $17,272
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 82.4%
- Employment Rate 87.4%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for James Madison University graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
James Madison University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how James Madison University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes James Madison University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While James Madison University graduates earn $57,438 median, the -38.4% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading 600-680
- SAT Math 570-660
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite 24-29
- SAT & ACT Required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 20,888
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate 92.0%
- Graduation Rate 79.7%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 17:1
How to Get Into James Madison University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: James Madison University requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 71.5%, James Madison University is relatively open. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: With a 71.5% acceptance rate, James Madison University is more accessible than highly selective schools. Meeting the test score ranges and maintaining a solid GPA significantly improves admission chances. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1170 and 1340 on the SAT.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among James Madison University undergraduates. Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Profe, Communication and Media Studies, and Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Hum draw the most students.
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Profe 9.6%
- Communication and Media Studies 9.3%
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Hum 6.0%
- Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitnes 5.2%
- Psychology, General 5.2%
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing 5.2%
See more majors
- Biology, General 4.0%
- Hospitality Administration/Management 3.7%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Finance and Financial Management Services $113,644
- 2. Information Science/Studies $111,126
- 3. Computer and Information Sciences, General $109,603
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Systems Science and Theory $101,452
- 5. International Business $96,946
- 6. Economics $96,390
- 7. Physics $93,914
- 8. Accounting and Related Services $88,619
- 9. Engineering, General $88,212
- 10. Marketing $85,936
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $144,716
- 2. Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Master's Degree) $133,378
- 3. Accounting and Related Services (Master's Degree) $106,689
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Master's Degree) $97,814
- 5. Public Administration (Master's Degree) $82,861
- 6. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Master's Degree) $79,084
- 7. Communication Disorders Sciences and Services (Master's Degree) $74,354
- 8. Political Science and Government (Master's Degree) $68,741
- 9. Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions (Master's Degree) $68,668
- 10. Student Counseling and Personnel Services (Master's Degree) $67,514
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Finance and Financial Management Services grads earn $113,644—32% more than Marketing ($85,936). Graduate: Business Administration, Management and Operations programs lead with $144,716 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for James Madison University. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions (Bachelor's Degree, 469 graduates)
- Communication and Media Studies (Bachelor's Degree, 451 graduates)
- Education, General (Master's Degree, 298 graduates)
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities (Bachelor's Degree, 290 graduates)
- Psychology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 254 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (46 programs)â–¼
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
- Communication and Media Studies
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Psychology, General
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Biology, General
- Hospitality Administration/Management
- Marketing
- Information Science/Studies
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Accounting and Related Services
- Science, Technology and Society
- Political Science and Government
- International Relations and National Security Studies
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Engineering, General
- Music
- Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies
- Mathematics
- History
- Economics
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Public Administration
- Geography and Cartography
- English Language and Literature, General
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Systems Science and Theory
- Social Work
- Sociology
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services
- Chemistry
- Anthropology
- Philosophy and Religious Studies, Other
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- International Business
- Biotechnology
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Physics
- Business/Managerial Economics
- Special Education and Teaching
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
Online Master's Degrees (23 programs)â–¼
- Education, General
- Accounting and Related Services
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Special Education and Teaching
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- Public Administration
- Communication and Media Studies
- Music
- History
- Biology, General
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Political Science and Government
- Psychology, General
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- English Language and Literature, General
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Science, Technology and Society
Online Doctoral Degrees (6 programs)â–¼
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Music
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (4 programs)â–¼
- Education, Other
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Public Administration
Online First Professional Degrees (4 programs)â–¼
- Psychology, General
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Music
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 20,888
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 43.6%
- Female Students 56.4%
- Caucasian 72.2%
- Asian 5.2%
- Hispanic 8.8%
- Black 4.7%
- Pell Grant Recipients 17.1%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects James Madison University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of James Madison University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does James Madison University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a different rate as higher-income students, indicating varying levels of institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at James Madison University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: The student body is 72.2% White, reflecting less racial diversity than the national average. About 17.1% receive Pell Grants, below the national average of 38%, suggesting a wealthier student body or generous institutional aid.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does James Madison University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a different rate as higher-income students, indicating varying levels of institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at James Madison University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
James Madison University serves as an affordable university for students seeking quality education without elite university costs. Ranked #237 nationally with ROI data not available, the institution balances practical outcomes with budget-friendly pricing.
At $23,322 annually, students gain access to career-focused programs leading to $57,438 median earnings. The 79.7% six-year graduation rate reflects reasonable completion metrics for a university. While 92.0% retention suggests adequate student support.
University Value: James Madison University's Strengths
Ranked #237 with a A- grade, James Madison University prioritizes accessibility and local career connections over national prestige.
Primary Strengths: Universitys like James Madison University excel at providing affordable education ($23,322 annually) with strong local employer relationships. Many programs emphasize practical skills and internships within the regional economy.
Best For: Students planning to work in the region after graduation benefit from established employer connections. Adult learners and part-time students appreciate flexible scheduling. First-generation students and budget-conscious families gain degrees without overwhelming debt.
Honest Assessment: James Madison University's 92.0% retention and 79.7% six-year graduation rate trail elite universities but align with typical university performance. Career outcomes ($57,438 median earnings) reflect regional job markets more than national opportunities.
Value Verdict: For students committed to regional careers, James Madison University and $23,322 cost deliver solid value. Those seeking national job mobility or prestigious credentials should compare against flagship state universities or targeted private scholarships.
Key Takeaways
- 79.7% six-year graduation rate sits 17.2 points above the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 92.0% first-year retention is 15.2 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
- -38.4% return on investment is 123.7 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $57,438 run about 31% higher than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $23,322 is roughly $5,925 higher than the national median of $17,397.
Helpfulness for Students
- 17:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 92.0% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 87.4% employment rate within three years sits 19.2 points above national outcomes.
- Average net price of $23,322 is about $5,925 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
- Pell participation at 17.1% trails the national share by 22.0 points, so equity work remains important.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
EDsmart rates James Madison University—a public university in Harrisonburg, VA—at A- overall. It holds a #237 national ranking Completion earns A, Support B+, Career Outcomes B+, and Affordability C+.
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
About 92.0% of first-year students return, and roughly 79.7% finish within six years. Return on investment currently measures -38.4% for this program.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $23,322 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $31,735.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $8,413 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $17,272 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 17.1% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Six years in, alumni earn roughly $57,438 at the median. That sits about 31% above the national median.
Roughly 87.4% of graduates are employed three years out.
Plan around an ROI of about -38.4% according to the Scorecard data.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
71.5% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the James Madison University admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is James Madison University's acceptance rate?
James Madison University's acceptance rate is 71.5%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.
How much does James Madison University cost?
At James Madison University, listed tuition and fees are $14,250 per year, and the average net price after aid is $23,322. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is James Madison University's ranking?
James Madison University ranks #237 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of A-, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is James Madison University's graduation rate?
At James Madison University, the six-year graduation rate is 79.7%, and first-year retention is 92.0%.
What are James Madison University's job outcomes?
Graduates of James Madison University report median earnings of $57,438 six years after enrollment, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
What is James Madison University's student population?
James Madison University enrolls about 20,888 undergraduate students, per College Scorecard enrollment data.
Contact Information
- Address Harrisonburg, VA 22807
- Website www.jmu.edu/index.shtml
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
- Endowment$135.4M