George Mason University and James Madison University offer distinct advantages for Virginia students. George Mason accepts 90% of applicants compared to JMU's more selective 78.3% rate, making Mason more accessible for borderline candidates.
Financially, the schools differ significantly. JMU charges $8,607 less for out-of-state students ($30,790 vs $39,397), while in-state costs are nearly identical. However, Mason's average net price is $3,529 lower ($18,287 vs $21,816), potentially reducing overall expenses.
Academically, both maintain similar student-faculty ratios (16:1 vs 17:1), but outcomes vary. JMU graduates at higher rates (80.9% vs 69.3%) and retains more students (90.1% vs 87.4%). However, Mason graduates earn $6,389 more annually after ten years ($76,343 vs $69,954), with slightly lower median debt ($19,500 vs $20,093).
Campus experiences differ by size and setting. Mason's larger enrollment (27,083 vs 20,497) in suburban Fairfax provides urban proximity and diversity. JMU's smaller community in Harrisonburg offers a more traditional college town atmosphere.
Both compete in NCAA Division I athletics. Mason's proximity to Washington DC creates internship and career opportunities in government and technology sectors. JMU's strong alumni network and higher graduation rates suggest better student support systems.
Students seeking career earning potential and urban opportunities should consider George Mason, while those prioritizing graduation rates, school spirit, and a close-knit campus community may prefer James Madison.
Financially, the schools differ significantly. JMU charges $8,607 less for out-of-state students ($30,790 vs $39,397), while in-state costs are nearly identical. However, Mason's average net price is $3,529 lower ($18,287 vs $21,816), potentially reducing overall expenses.
Academically, both maintain similar student-faculty ratios (16:1 vs 17:1), but outcomes vary. JMU graduates at higher rates (80.9% vs 69.3%) and retains more students (90.1% vs 87.4%). However, Mason graduates earn $6,389 more annually after ten years ($76,343 vs $69,954), with slightly lower median debt ($19,500 vs $20,093).
Campus experiences differ by size and setting. Mason's larger enrollment (27,083 vs 20,497) in suburban Fairfax provides urban proximity and diversity. JMU's smaller community in Harrisonburg offers a more traditional college town atmosphere.
Both compete in NCAA Division I athletics. Mason's proximity to Washington DC creates internship and career opportunities in government and technology sectors. JMU's strong alumni network and higher graduation rates suggest better student support systems.
Students seeking career earning potential and urban opportunities should consider George Mason, while those prioritizing graduation rates, school spirit, and a close-knit campus community may prefer James Madison.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| George Mason University | James Madison University | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 90.0% | 78.3% |
| SAT Average | 1,245 | 1,230 |
| Enrollment | 27,083 | 20,497 |
| In-State Tuition | $13,815 | $13,576 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $39,397 | $30,790 |
| Net Price | $18,287 | $21,816 |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 69.3% | 80.9% |
| Retention Rate | 87.4% | 90.1% |
| Median Earnings (10yr) | $76,343 | $69,954 |
| Median Debt | $19,500 | $20,093 |
Top Programs by Earnings
Top 5 bachelor's programs at each school, ranked by median graduate earnings.
| George Mason University | James Madison University | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Program | Earnings | Program | Earnings |
| Computer Science. | $78,343 | Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $72,659 |
| Systems Engineering. | $74,576 | Information Science/Studies. | $72,290 |
| Biomedical/Medical Engineering. | $69,338 | Finance and Financial Management Services. | $67,380 |
| Computer Engineering. | $69,338 | Business/Managerial Economics. | $64,493 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $68,104 | Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | $63,965 |