International Year Program

The International Year at James Madison University International Study Center is a pathway to undergraduate study at a top U.S. university. Students can choose to study for one to four semesters, depending on their English language level, and gain the academic, language, and study skills needed to succeed on their chosen university degree.

Key Facts

• Entry requirements vary depending on the length of the program
• Term dates differ depending on the length of the program
• Fees include tuition costs, insurance, accommodation, and more

Why Study the International Year?

The International Year is a great choice for students who want to improve their English language proficiency while benefiting from a supportive environment with dedicated faculty. Benefits of studying the program include:

• Dedicated academic support to prepare students for university
• The opportunity to graduate in four years, like direct entry students
• Being part of the university community from day one
• A safe and supportive environment at the on-campus International Study Center

What Will You Study?

The program is split into courses across semesters, with the program duration depending on the student's English language skill level on entry. Depending on the entry level, students will take up to nine first-year level courses and can earn up to 28 credits. These credits count towards their bachelor's degree graduation requirements.

1-Semester Program

Students will matriculate with up to 12 credits, studying:

• Research Skills
• American Culture
• Pathways to Success IV
• Strategic Learning Lab
• WRTC 100: Reading & Writing Workshop (3 credits)
• 1 JMU Math Course (3 Credits)
• SCOM 123: Fundamental Human Communication: Group Presentations (3 credits)
• ISAT 160: Problem Solving Applications in Science & Technology (3 credits)

2-Semester Program

Students will matriculate with up to 21 credits, studying:

• Semester 1:
  • Reading & Writing 3
  • Grammar 3
  • Strategic Learning + Lab
  • Pathways to Success III
  • 1 JMU Math Course (3 Credits)
  • SCOM 123: Fundamental Human Communication: Group Presentations (3 credits)
  • KIN 100: Lifetime Fitness and Wellness (3 credits)
• Semester 2:
  • Research Skills
  • American Culture
  • Pathways to Success IV
  • WRTC 100: Reading & Writing Workshop (3 credits)
  • ISAT 160: Problem Solving Applications in Science & Technology (3 credits)
  • PSYCH 160: Lifespan Human Development (3 credits)
  • ECON 200: Introduction to Macroeconomics (3 credits)

3-Semester Program

Students will matriculate with up to 27 credits, studying:

• Semester 1:
  • Reading 2
  • Writing 2
  • Listening & Speaking 2
  • Grammar 2
  • Pathways to Success II
  • 1 JMU Math Course (3 Credits)
  • KIN 100: Lifetime Fitness and Wellness (3 credits)
• Semester 2:
  • Reading & Writing 3
  • Grammar 3
  • Strategic Learning + Lab
  • Pathways to Success III
  • SCOM 123: Fundamental Human Communication: Group Presentations (3 credits)
  • HIST 101: World History to 1500 (3 credits)
  • ECON 200: Introduction to Macroeconomics (3 credits)
• Semester 3:
  • Research Skills
  • American Culture
  • Pathways to Success IV
  • WRTC 100: Reading & Writing Workshop (3 credits)
  • ISAT 160: Problem Solving Applications in Science & Technology (3 credits)
  • COB 204: Computer Information Systems (3 credits)
  • PSYCH 160: Lifespan Human Development (3 credits)

4-Semester Program

Students will matriculate with up to 28 credits, studying:

• Semester 1:
  • Reading 1
  • Writing 1
  • Listening 1
  • Speaking 1
  • Grammar 1
  • Language in Academic Contexts
  • Pathways to Success I
  • UNST 102: Career & Academic Planning (1 Credit)
• Semester 2:
  • Reading 2
  • Writing 2
  • Listening & Speaking 2
  • Grammar 2
  • Pathways to Success II
  • 1 JMU Math Course (3 Credits)
  • KIN 100: Lifetime Fitness and Wellness (3 credits)
• Semester 3:
  • Reading & Writing 3
  • Grammar 3
  • Strategic Learning + Lab
  • Pathways to Success III
  • SCOM 123: Fundamental Human Communication: Group Presentations (3 credits)
  • HIST 101: World History to 1500 (3 credits)
  • ECON 200: Introduction to Macroeconomics (3 credits)
• Semester 4:
  • Research Skills
  • American Culture
  • Pathways to Success IV
  • WRTC 100: Reading & Writing Workshop (3 credits)
  • ISAT 160: Problem Solving Applications in Science & Technology (3 credits)
  • COB 204: Computer Information Systems (3 credits)
  • PSYCH 160: Lifespan Human Development (3 credits)

Undergraduate Degrees

After successfully completing the pathway program and achieving the required grades, students will matriculate to the University and continue their degree studies. The University offers various undergraduate degrees for International Year students.

Entry Requirements

The entry requirements for the International Year program vary depending on the length of the program. Students can find out more about the specific requirements for their chosen program.

Program Structure

The International Year program is designed to provide students with a supportive environment and dedicated faculty to help them succeed in their undergraduate studies. The program is split into courses across semesters, with the program duration depending on the student's English language skill level on entry.

James Madison University

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Overview:

James Madison University (JMU) is a public research university located in Harrisonburg, Virginia. It is known for its strong academic programs, vibrant student life, and beautiful campus.

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Services Offered:

JMU offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Academic Support:

Libraries, career planning services, tutoring, and academic advising.

Student Life:

Housing, dining, clubs and organizations, recreational activities, and student government.

Health and Wellness:

Campus health center, counseling services, and wellness programs.

Financial Aid:

Scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

JMU boasts a vibrant and active student body with a strong sense of community. Students can expect:

Living on Campus:

A variety of residence halls and apartment-style living options.

Clubs and Organizations:

Over 300 student organizations catering to diverse interests.

Spirit and Traditions:

Strong school spirit with numerous sporting events, concerts, and other campus traditions.

Harrisonburg:

A charming town with a thriving arts and culture scene, offering opportunities for exploration and entertainment.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Academic Programs:

JMU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with particular strengths in business, education, and the arts.

Vibrant Campus Life:

A lively and engaging campus environment with numerous opportunities for student involvement and personal growth.

Beautiful Campus:

A picturesque campus with modern facilities and a welcoming atmosphere.

Affordable Education:

JMU offers a relatively affordable education compared to other universities.

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Academic Programs:

JMU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate Majors:

A diverse selection of majors across various disciplines, including business, education, engineering, health sciences, and the arts.

Graduate Programs:

Master's and doctoral programs in fields such as business, education, nursing, and public administration.

Research Opportunities:

Opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students to engage in research projects with faculty mentors.

Study Abroad:

Programs to study abroad in various countries around the world.