About James Madison University
James Madison University (JMU), founded in 1908 as the State Normal and Industrial School for Women at Harrisonburg, has evolved into a comprehensive public research university. Renamed in 1977 to honor President James Madison, JMU is located in the scenic Shenandoah Valley of Harrisonburg, Virginia, United States. With a mission to prepare students to be educated and enlightened citizens who lead productive and meaningful lives, JMU emphasizes undergraduate education while offering robust graduate programs. Key achievements include high rankings in national surveys for student engagement and value, with over 22,000 students across seven colleges: Arts and Letters, Business, Education, Health and Behavioral Studies, Integrated Science and Engineering, Science and Mathematics, and Visual and Performing Arts. The university boasts a strong commitment to sustainability, community service, and innovation, with campuses featuring modern facilities like the Forbes Center for the Performing Arts and the Biosciences Building. For more details, visit the James Madison University Website. Explore related opportunities in Academic Jobs in United States, Academic Jobs in Virginia, and Academic Jobs in Harrisonburg.
JMU's history reflects a dedication to accessible education, transitioning from a women's normal school to a coeducational institution in 1966. Today, it excels in areas like cybersecurity, nursing, and kinesiology, with notable alumni including business leaders and public servants. The university's strategic plan focuses on inclusive excellence, fostering a diverse community. Campus life includes over 400 student organizations and Division I athletics as the Dukes. For academics interested in professor positions at James Madison University or higher education jobs at James Madison University, JMU provides a supportive environment with resources for research and teaching.
In terms of academic trends for 2025, JMU is expanding in STEM fields, with increased funding for interdisciplinary research. The university's enrollment growth and high retention rates make it a prime spot for lecturer roles at James Madison University and research jobs at James Madison University. Students and professionals can rate professors at James Madison University through platforms like Rate My Professor on AcademicJobs.com, aiding in informed decisions for academic careers at James Madison University.
JMU's commitment to innovation is evident in its centers like the Center for Entrepreneurship and the Institute for Stewardship of the Natural World. With a focus on experiential learning, the university partners with local industries in Harrisonburg, enhancing job prospects for graduates and faculty alike.
Faculty Job Opportunities at James Madison University
💼 Faculty job opportunities at James Madison University are abundant, particularly in high-demand areas like business, health sciences, and integrated science and engineering. As a growing institution, JMU is hiring for professor positions at James Madison University, including assistant professors in cybersecurity and data analytics, with trends showing a 15% increase in STEM-related hires for 2025 based on recent academic job market analyses. Lecturer roles at James Madison University often focus on undergraduate teaching in education and arts, while research jobs at James Madison University emphasize interdisciplinary projects in sustainability and health. Salary ranges vary: assistant professors earn $65,000-$85,000 annually, associates $80,000-$110,000, and full professors $100,000-$140,000, influenced by department and experience (data from 2025 faculty salary surveys like those from AAUP and Chronicle of Higher Education). For instance, faculty in the College of Business at James Madison University command higher salaries due to market demand. Explore these higher education jobs at James Madison University through AcademicJobs.com's filtered search.
Job trends indicate a shift toward remote and hybrid positions, with JMU offering roles like research fellows in neuroscience and clinical instructors in nursing. The university's location in Harrisonburg provides a low cost of living, making salaries at James Madison University academia more attractive. Notable departments include the College of Health and Behavioral Studies, where positions in psychology and counseling are expanding. Academic opportunities at James Madison University also include administrative roles in student affairs. To find the latest listings, visit Higher Ed Jobs or Lecturer Jobs.
Pursuing faculty jobs at James Madison University means joining a community valued for its student-centered approach. With over 1,200 faculty members, JMU supports professional development through grants and sabbaticals. For those interested in rate professors at James Madison University, integrating feedback from Rate My Professor can guide career choices. Overall, these positions offer stability and impact in academic careers at James Madison University.
Assistant Professor in Business
Focus on finance and management; salary $75,000-$95,000.
Lecturer in Education
Teach undergraduate courses; salary $60,000-$80,000.
Research Fellow in Science
Interdisciplinary projects; salary $70,000-$90,000.
Associate Professor in Health
Clinical research focus; salary $85,000-$115,000.
Why Work at James Madison University
Working at James Madison University offers unparalleled benefits for academic careers, including a collaborative environment, generous research funding, and a focus on work-life balance. Faculty enjoy access to state-of-the-art facilities and professional development programs, with unique perks like tuition waivers for dependents and wellness initiatives. JMU's emphasis on undergraduate research provides opportunities to mentor future leaders, enhancing career satisfaction. In Virginia's Shenandoah Valley, the location offers a high quality of life with outdoor activities and cultural events. Compared to other institutions, JMU stands out for its high faculty retention rates and commitment to diversity. Explore why through Higher Ed Career Advice.
Research opportunities abound in areas like renewable energy and public policy, with collaborations extending to national labs. Career prospects include rapid advancement to tenure, supported by mentorship programs. Benefits include comprehensive health coverage and retirement plans, making it ideal for long-term academic opportunities at James Madison University.
Salary Guide for Faculty at James Madison University
📊 The salary guide for faculty at James Madison University reflects competitive compensation in higher education. Based on 2025 data from sources like the AAUP Faculty Compensation Survey and Virginia state reports, average salaries are influenced by rank, department, experience, and location in Harrisonburg. Assistant professors typically earn $65,000-$85,000, with higher ranges in business ($80,000+) due to demand. Associate professors see $80,000-$110,000, while full professors range from $100,000-$140,000, boosted by grants and endowments. Factors like tenure status and performance bonuses can add 10-15%. Compared to national averages, JMU salaries are above median for public universities in the South, adjusted for cost of living. For detailed comparisons, visit Professor Salaries or University Salaries.
In departments like Integrated Science and Engineering, salaries trend higher due to federal funding, with averages around $95,000 for mid-level roles. Education faculty might start at $60,000, rising with experience. Location in Virginia offers tax advantages, enhancing net pay. Trends for 2025 show a 4-5% increase in base pay to combat inflation, with equity adjustments for underrepresented groups. Faculty in health sciences benefit from clinical supplements, pushing totals to $120,000+. Understanding these ranges helps in negotiating offers for faculty jobs at James Madison University.
Additional perks include summer stipends and research incentives, which can add $10,000-$20,000 annually. For international faculty, visa support is available. Salaries at James Madison University academia are transparent, with annual reports published. Use this guide to plan your academic career, and check Higher Ed Jobs for openings with salary details.
| Rank | Average Salary | Department High |
|---|---|---|
| Assistant Professor | $65,000-$85,000 | Business: $80,000+ |
| Associate Professor | $80,000-$110,000 | Science: $100,000+ |
| Full Professor | $100,000-$140,000 | Health: $120,000+ |
| Lecturer | $60,000-$80,000 | Education: $70,000+ |
Rate My Professor: Top Educators at James Madison University
⭐ Discover top educators at James Madison University through Rate My Professor on AcademicJobs.com. This platform allows students to rate professors based on teaching quality, clarity, and helpfulness, aiding in course selection and recognizing excellence in programs like business and science. Ratings help highlight professors who excel in engaging students and fostering academic growth.
Dr. Cynthia Bauerle - Biology
Rating: 4.8/5 - Praised for interactive lectures in STEM courses.
Dr. Mark Gabriele - Neuroscience
Rating: 4.7/5 - Known for research mentorship and clear explanations.
Dr. Sharon Lovell - Psychology
Rating: 4.9/5 - Excels in health and behavioral studies engagement.
Dr. Michael Deaton - Computer Science
Rating: 4.6/5 - Innovative in tech education and projects.
Dr. Carole Nash - Anthropology
Rating: 4.8/5 - Expertise in cultural studies and fieldwork.
Dr. Kevin Apple - Psychology
Rating: 4.7/5 - Focuses on student success in behavioral sciences.
Career Progression at James Madison University
Career progression at James Madison University follows a structured path from lecturer to full professor, with tenure-track options emphasizing teaching, research, and service. Entry-level roles offer salaries starting at $65,000, advancing to $100,000+ with tenure. Professional development includes workshops and funding for conferences. JMU's strengths in education and business facilitate rapid advancement. Learn more at Higher Ed Career Advice.
Research funding from sources like NSF supports progression, with university-specific factors like collaborative grants enhancing portfolios. Link to resources on Professor Jobs.
Research and Innovation at James Madison University
🔬 Research at James Madison University focuses on sustainability, cybersecurity, and health innovations, with centers like the Institute for Innovation in Health and Human Services. Trends for 2025 include AI integration and environmental studies, supported by over $10 million in annual funding. Collaborations with industry partners enhance opportunities. Explore via Research Jobs.
Major areas include biotechnology and public policy, with faculty leading national projects.
Resources for James Madison University Academics
- 🎓 Professional development through the Center for Faculty Innovation.
- 💼 Faculty unions and benefits including health insurance and retirement.
- 📍 Relocation support for new hires in Harrisonburg.
- Access to grants via the Office of Research and Scholarship.
Student Life and Perspectives at James Madison University
Student life at James Madison University is vibrant, with programs in over 100 majors and strong career outcomes in fields like business (90% employment rate). Choose professors wisely using Rate My Professor. Resources include advising centers and internships in Harrisonburg.
Perspectives highlight inclusive community and extracurriculars for holistic development.
