Introduction
Deciding between universities can be a difficult task, as each institution offers unique opportunities and experiences. In this comparison, we will examine James Madison University (JMU) and Boston College (BC) across various factors such as cost, admissions, academics, and outcomes to help prospective students make an informed decision.
James Madison University (JMU) Overview
James Madison University (JMU) is a public research university located in Harrisonburg, Virginia. Founded in 1908, JMU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields of study. With over 22,000 students, JMU is known for its picturesque campus, strong sense of community, and commitment to providing a high-quality education.
JMU Costs & Tuition
Tuition at JMU varies depending on whether a student is in-state or out-of-state. For the 2021-2022 academic year, in-state undergraduate students can expect to pay around $12,330 in tuition and fees. Out-of-state students will pay approximately $30,800. Room and board costs are estimated at $10,800. Financial aid is available for eligible students, with around 55% of JMU students receiving some form of financial assistance.
JMU Admissions
Admissions at JMU are moderately selective, with an acceptance rate of approximately 71% (2020 data). Prospective students must submit an application, along with SAT or ACT scores, transcripts, and a personal statement. The average SAT score for admitted students is between 1120 and 1300, while the average ACT score is between 23 and 28.
JMU Degrees Offered
JMU offers over 120 undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs across various fields of study. Some of the most popular majors include Business, Health Professions, Social Sciences, Visual and Performing Arts, and Communications.
JMU Academics
JMU is committed to providing high-quality education, with a student-faculty ratio of 16:1. The university offers a wide range of academic resources, including tutoring services, writing centers, and academic advising. Furthermore, JMU encourages experiential learning through research opportunities, internships, and study abroad programs.
JMU Diversity
JMU prides itself on fostering an inclusive and diverse environment. The university’s student body is composed of individuals from various ethnicities, religions, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Various programs and initiatives are in place to promote diversity and inclusion, such as multicultural student organizations, diversity training, and academic support services.
JMU Students
JMU students are known for their school spirit and strong sense of community. With over 350 student organizations, there are ample opportunities for students to get involved on campus, develop leadership skills, and make lasting connections. The university also offers a robust athletics program, with 18 NCAA Division I sports teams and numerous club and intramural sports.
JMU Campus
JMU’s picturesque campus is located in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, offering students beautiful views and a tranquil environment. The campus spans 721 acres and features state-of-the-art facilities, including a new performing arts center, recreational facilities, and modern residence halls.
JMU Alumni
JMU has a strong alumni network, with over 140,000 alumni worldwide. The university offers various resources and events to help alumni stay connected, such as regional chapters, networking opportunities, and career services.
JMU Rankings
According to the 2022 U.S. News & World Report, JMU ranks #3 in Regional Universities South and #4 in Best Undergraduate Teaching. Additionally, Forbes ranks JMU as #108 in Public Colleges and #159 in Research Universities.
JMU Outcomes
JMU boasts a strong record of student success, with a 6-year graduation rate of approximately 84% (2018 data). According to the university’s data, 91% of the Class of 2019 were employed or enrolled in graduate school within six months of graduation. The average starting salary for JMU graduates is around $50,000, varying by field of study.
Boston College (BC) Overview
Boston College (BC) is a private Jesuit research university located in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts. Established in 1863, BC offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields of study. With over 14,000 students, Boston College is known for its strong academic reputation, beautiful campus, and commitment to social justice.
BC Costs & Tuition
As a private university, Boston College has a higher tuition rate than public institutions like JMU. For the 2021-2022 academic year, undergraduate students can expect to pay around $59,050 in tuition and fees. Room and board costs are estimated at $15,110. Financial aid is available for eligible students, with around 65% of BC students receiving some form of financial assistance.
BC Admissions
Admissions at Boston College are highly competitive, with an acceptance rate of approximately 27% (2020 data). Prospective students must submit an application, along with SAT or ACT scores, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. The average SAT score for admitted students is between 1320 and 1490, while the average ACT score is between 31 and 34.
BC Degrees Offered
Boston College offers over 150 undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs across various fields of study. Some of the most popular majors include Business, Social Sciences, Biological and Biomedical Sciences, and Psychology.
BC Academics
Boston College is committed to providing a rigorous education, with a student-faculty ratio of 12:1. The university offers a wide range of academic resources, including tutoring services, writing centers, and academic advising. Additionally, BC encourages experiential learning through research opportunities, internships, and study abroad programs.
BC Diversity
Boston College values diversity and inclusion, with students from various ethnicities, religions, and socioeconomic backgrounds. The university offers numerous programs and initiatives to promote diversity and inclusion, such as the Thea Bowman AHANA and Intercultural Center, multicultural student organizations, and academic support services.
BC Students
Boston College students are known for their strong sense of community and commitment to social justice. With over 200 student organizations, there are ample opportunities for students to get involved on campus, develop leadership skills, and make lasting connections. The university also offers a strong athletics program, with 31 NCAA Division I sports teams and numerous club and intramural sports.
BC Campus
Boston College’s beautiful campus is located just six miles from downtown Boston, offering students a serene environment with easy access to the city. The campus spans 339 acres and features stunning Gothic architecture, modern facilities, and ample green spaces.
BC Alumni
Boston College has a large and active alumni network, with over 180,000 alumni worldwide. The university offers various resources and events to help alumni stay connected, such as regional chapters, networking opportunities, and career services.
BC Rankings
According to the 2022 U.S. News & World Report, Boston College ranks #35 in National Universities and #38 in Best Undergraduate Teaching. Additionally, Forbes ranks BC as #25 in Private Colleges and #39 in Research Universities.
BC Outcomes
Boston College boasts a strong record of student success, with a 6-year graduation rate of approximately 92% (2018 data). According to the university’s data, 93% of the Class of 2019 were employed or enrolled in graduate school within six months of graduation. The average starting salary for BC graduates is around $60,000, varying by field of study.
JMU vs BC Cost Comparison
When comparing the costs of attending JMU and BC, it is important to consider both tuition and fees, as well as room and board. For in-state JMU students, the total cost (including room and board) is approximately $23,130 per year, while out-of-state students can expect to pay around $41,600. On the other hand, Boston College’s total cost (including room and board) is approximately $74,160 per year.
Financial aid opportunities are available at both institutions, with 55% of JMU students and 65% of BC students receiving some form of assistance. It is important to factor in individual financial aid packages when comparing the overall costs of attending each university.
JMU vs BC Admissions Difficulty
Admissions at JMU are moderately selective, with an acceptance rate of around 71%. In comparison, Boston College has a more competitive admissions process, with an acceptance rate of approximately 27%. Prospective students should consider their academic profile, including standardized test scores, GPA, and extracurricular involvement, when determining their likelihood of admission at each university.
JMU vs BC Academic Difficulty
Both JMU and BC are committed to providing high-quality education, with student-faculty ratios of 16:1 and 12:1, respectively. While both universities offer rigorous academic programs, Boston College is generally considered to have a more challenging curriculum due to its higher admissions standards and strong reputation in research and academics.
JMU vs BC Outcome Comparison
When comparing student outcomes at JMU and BC, it is important to consider factors such as graduation rates, employment rates, and starting salaries. JMU has a 6-year graduation rate of 84%, while BC has a slightly higher rate of 92%. Additionally, 91% of JMU graduates and 93% of BC graduates are employed or enrolled in graduate school within six months of graduation.
In terms of starting salaries, BC graduates tend to earn more, with an average starting salary of $60,000 compared to JMU’s $50,000. However, individual outcomes will vary depending on factors such as major, industry, and geographic location.
