James Madison University

James Madison University is a public research university in Harrisonburg, Virginia, in the state's Shenandoah Valley. Founded in 1908 as a state normal and industrial school for women, it has developed into a comprehensive doctoral institution classified as an R2 doctoral university with high research activity. It enrolls more than 22,000 students.

The university offers more than 130 programs of study at bachelor's, master's, educational specialist, and doctoral levels. It places particular emphasis on the quality of the undergraduate experience alongside a set of distinguished graduate programmes, combining what it describes as the inclusive community of a liberal arts college with the innovation of a research university. Opportunities for engaged learning, civic participation and personal growth are a central part of the curriculum.

Its stated mission is to prepare students to be educated and enlightened citizens who lead productive and meaningful lives, guided by a "Being the Change" philosophy that emphasises critical thinking, a strong work ethic and collaborative skills. The university is nationally recognised as a leading public institution and is the only university in America named for James Madison, the fourth president of the United States.