Robust internship program with strong connections in Virginia, Washington DC metro area, and beyond. Business students have 85%+ internship participation. Career and Academic Planning (CAP) Center provides extensive support. Madison Center in DC for semester-long internships.

Lower-level classes range 25-50 students; upper-level classes typically 20-30 students. Many seminar-style classes under 20 students in major coursework.

Strong emphasis on experiential learning and applied education. Business school features case studies, client projects, and hands-on learning. Psychology includes lab work and research participation. 'Be the Change' philosophy emphasizes practical application.

Extensive support through University Writing Center, Tutoring Center, Student Success Centers in each college. Professors known for accessibility and office hours. Academic advising embedded in each college. Strong support culture.

88% of graduates employed or in graduate school within 6 months. Strong regional employer connections. Average starting salary approximately $50,000-55,000.

• No specific pre-law major but strong advising through Political Science and Justice Studies. JMU has a Pre-Law Advising program. Good acceptance rates to law schools.
• College of Business (CoB) is AACSB accredited. Marketing program is particularly strong with dedicated faculty. Ranked among top public business schools in Virginia.
• Strong program within CoB with emphasis on integrated marketing communications and digital marketing. Multiple concentrations available.
• BA and BS options available. Well-regarded program with research opportunities. Prepares students for graduate school and various career paths.
• Kinesiology major is the typical path. Strong Health Sciences programs. DPT program available for graduate study. Excellent preparation with clinical observation opportunities.

16:1

Approximately 12-15% of students involved in Greek life. Present but not dominant. Social scene does not revolve around Greek life. Many social opportunities outside Greek system. Mix of social and service fraternities/sororities.

Vibrant and diverse social scene. Strong club and organization involvement (400+ clubs). Music scene is active. Outdoor recreation clubs popular. Balance of party culture and alternative activities. Generally described as friendly, welcoming community.

Exceptional school spirit. Football games draw 20,000+ fans. 'Purple Out' traditions. Strong athletic support across sports. Students very proud to be 'Dukes.' Homecoming and family weekend are major events. Known for enthusiastic student section.

91% freshman retention rate

83% six-year graduation rate

Very active campus on weekends. NOT a commuter school - approximately 65-70% of students live on or immediately adjacent to campus. Court Square and downtown Harrisonburg active with students. Constant campus programming and events.

Moderate to slightly left-leaning, but diverse political perspectives. More moderate than many Virginia universities. Generally tolerant and civil discourse. Focus on community service and civic engagement rather than political activism.

Small city/college town setting. Harrisonburg population approximately 54,000. Campus feels contained but city is accessible. Shenandoah Valley location provides mountain views and natural beauty.

Approximately 219 sunny days per year. Four distinct seasons with mild winters compared to northern states. Spring and fall are particularly beautiful. Average annual temperature around 55°F. More sunshine than many East Coast locations.

Exceptional nature access. Shenandoah National Park 30 minutes away. Blue Ridge Mountains visible from campus. Endless hiking, camping, rock climbing nearby. Massanutten Resort 20 minutes for skiing. Multiple state parks within 30-45 minutes. Outdoor recreation is major part of JMU culture.

Harrisonburg Transit provides free bus service. Campus has extensive bus system. Walkable campus and downtown area. Car helpful but not essential. Zipcars available. Many students have cars by sophomore year for outdoor activities.

Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport (20 minutes) - limited flights. Primary airports: Dulles International (IAD) - 2 hours; Reagan National (DCA) - 2 hours; Richmond (RIC) - 2 hours. Charlottesville airport 1 hour.

Harrisonburg is a growing small city with college town vibe. Court Square downtown has restaurants, shops, breweries. Growing food scene with diverse options. Farmers market is popular. Mix of college students and local community. Safe, friendly atmosphere. Less urban than desired but not isolated rural.

JMU has the 'Madison Dance' team which performs at football and basketball games. This is a competitive spirit/dance team. They hold auditions typically in April/May. Walk-on opportunities available through auditions - no prior college dance experience required but competitive. Team competes nationally at UDA College Nationals. Also club dance teams and numerous dance clubs for various styles.

• UREC (University Recreation Center) is state-of-the-art facility with climbing wall, pools, fitness centers, courts, and studios. Extensive intramural sports program (30+ sports). Outdoor adventure programs through UREC. Golf course on campus. Multiple fitness facilities across campus.
• Highly active intramural program with high participation rates. Sports range from traditional (basketball, soccer) to unique (quidditch, inner tube water polo). Multiple competitive levels available. Strong club sports program including competitive dance.

Consistently ranked among best college food in the nation. Multiple dining halls with different themes. E-Hall (Festival) is award-winning. Mrs. Green's (vegetarian/vegan). Steak night is legendary. Top 5 in Princeton Review rankings for campus food. Extensive options including food court style, restaurants, and convenience stores.

Beautiful campus with iconic Bluestone architecture. Well-maintained grounds with mountain backdrop. Quad areas popular for studying and recreation. Mix of historic and modern buildings. Campus consistently ranked among most beautiful. Cherry blossoms in spring. Fall foliage spectacular with mountain setting.

Housing quality varies. Newer dorms (Chesapeake, Shenandoah, Potomac halls) are excellent. Older dorms (Bluestone area) have character but more basic. Lakeside area has apartment-style. Village area popular for upperclassmen. On-campus housing guaranteed for freshmen and sophomores. Many students move to off-campus apartments junior/senior year.

Madison Dance can be contacted through JMU Spirit Program Coordinator. Check JMU Athletics website or email: dukeclub@jmu.edu for current coach contact. Also contact JMU Cheerleading & Dance office at (540) 568-6461.