JMU ShortTerm Program

What Is the JMU ShortTerm Program?

James Madison University (JMU) offers a series of shortterm academic experiences designed for highschool, undergraduate, and graduate students who want to explore new subjects, earn college credit, and experience campus life in a condensed format. These programs typically run from one week to six weeks during summer, winter, and spring breaks. They combine intensive classroom instruction with experiential learning, field trips, and community service.

Key benefits: earn credit, explore a new field, build a network, and get a taste of JMU campus culture without a multiyear commitment.

Program Types

1. Summer Academy

Sixweek intensive courses in areas such as Business, Engineering, Health Sciences, and the Arts. Students live on campus, attend daily lectures, labs, and workshops, and complete a capstone project.

2. Winter Session Immersion

Threeweek tracks held over the winter break focusing on interdisciplinary topics like Sustainable Development, Digital Media, and Public Policy. Classes meet in the mornings, with afternoon field experiences that connect theory to realworld practice.

3. Spring Break Study Tours

Short, traveloriented programs that combine classroom instruction with site visits. Popular tours include Historical America (Washington, D.C., Williamsburg), Marine Science (Virginia Beach), and Creative Writing retreats (Shenandoah Valley).

4. HighSchool Summer Enrichment

Twoweek residential programs for rising highschool seniors. Students explore collegelevel curricula in STEM, Humanities, or Business while participating in leadership workshops and collegereadiness sessions.

Who Can Participate?

• Highschool students: Must be rising juniors or seniors with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
• Undergraduate students: Must be enrolled at any accredited college/university; credit transfer is possible.
• Graduate students: Accepted for specific professional development tracks; often require a related bachelors degree.
• International participants: Must have a valid passport and meet visa requirements for shortterm study.

Applicants should possess strong communication skills, a willingness to engage in collaborative projects, and a genuine interest in the chosen subject area.

How to Apply

The application process is straightforward and fully online. Follow these steps:

1. Visit the JMU ShortTerm Program portal and select your desired program.
2. Create an account and complete the personal information section.
3. Upload your academic transcript, a brief personal statement (150250 words), and any required recommendation letters.
4. Pay the nonrefundable application fee ($50 for most programs; fee waivers available for qualifying highschool students).
5. Submit the application before the posted deadline most programs close 810 weeks prior to start date.

After review, successful candidates receive an admission decision, enrollment instructions, and information about housing, orientation, and health insurance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I receive academic credit?

Yes. All creditbearing programs award semester credit that can be transferred to most institutions with prior approval.

Is housing provided?

Participants are assigned to oncampus residence halls for the duration of the program. Dining plans are optional.

What is the cost?

Program fees range from $1,200 to $4,500, covering tuition, housing, meals, and program materials. Scholarships and payment plans are available.

Can I earn a certificate?

Many programs offer a JMU ShortTerm Certificate upon successful completion, which can be added to a resume or LinkedIn profile.

Do I need health insurance?

All participants must have health insurance that meets JMUs coverage requirements. International students can purchase a shortterm plan through the university.