James Madison University Common Data Set: An Overview
The James Madison University (JMU) Common Data Set (CDS) is a compilation of standardized information about JMU, covering areas like admissions, enrollment, academics, student life, and financial aid. This data is crucial for prospective students, researchers, and other stakeholders who need a comprehensive and objective view of the university.
What is the Common Data Set (CDS)?
The Common Data Set initiative is a collaborative effort among data providers in the higher education community and publishers as represented by the College Board, Peterson’s, and U.S. News & World Report. Its goal is to improve the accuracy and consistency of data reported by colleges and universities. JMU, like many other institutions, participates in this initiative by publishing its CDS data, allowing for easier comparison between different schools. You can learn more about the Common Data Set on Wikipedia.
Key Sections of the JMU CDS
The JMU CDS is typically divided into several sections, each providing detailed information about different aspects of the university:
A. General Information
This section includes basic information such as the university’s address, website, contact information, mission statement, accreditation details, and control (public or private).
B. Enrollment and Persistence
Here, you’ll find data on the number of students enrolled (undergraduate and graduate), their demographic makeup (gender, race/ethnicity), retention rates (percentage of students returning for their second year), and graduation rates.
C. First-Time, First-Year (Freshman) Admission
This section provides details about the application process, including admission requirements, application deadlines, the number of applicants, the number of students admitted, and the number of students who enroll. It also includes information about standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) and high school GPA ranges of admitted students.
D. Transfer Admission
Similar to the freshman admission section, this covers admission data for transfer students, including the number of transfer applicants, admitted students, and enrolled students.
E. Academic Offerings and Policies
This section lists the academic programs offered by JMU, including majors, minors, and graduate programs. It also outlines academic policies such as grading systems, credit hours, and study abroad opportunities.
F. Student Life
Here, you can find information about student housing, campus activities, organizations, clubs, and sports.
G. Annual Expenses
This section provides estimated costs of attendance, including tuition, fees, room and board, books, and personal expenses.
H. Financial Aid
This section details the types of financial aid available to students, including grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study programs. It also provides information on the percentage of students receiving financial aid and the average amount of aid awarded.
I. Instructional Faculty and Class Size
Information on the number of full-time and part-time faculty members, student-faculty ratio, and class size distributions.
J. Degrees Conferred
This section lists the number of degrees awarded in each academic program.
Why is the JMU CDS Important?
The JMU CDS is a valuable resource for several reasons:
- Transparency: It promotes transparency by providing readily available data about the university.
- Comparison: It allows prospective students and researchers to compare JMU with other institutions.
- Decision-Making: It helps prospective students make informed decisions about whether JMU is the right fit for them.
- Research: It provides data for researchers studying higher education trends and outcomes.
FAQs about the JMU Common Data Set
Q1: Where can I find the JMU Common Data Set?
A1: Usually, you can find the JMU CDS on the university’s Office of Institutional Research website or a similar department responsible for data reporting.
Q2: How often is the JMU CDS updated?
A2: The JMU CDS is typically updated annually.
Q3: What if I can’t find the CDS on JMU’s website?
A3: Contact the university’s Office of Institutional Research or the admissions office.
Q4: Is the information in the CDS always accurate?
A4: While JMU strives for accuracy, data can change. The CDS provides a snapshot in time.
Q5: Can I use the CDS data for research purposes?
A5: Yes, the CDS data is intended for public use, including research.
Summary
The James Madison University Common Data Set is a comprehensive and standardized source of information about JMU. It covers various aspects of the university, including admissions, enrollment, academics, student life, and financial aid. By making this data publicly available, JMU promotes transparency and helps prospective students, researchers, and other stakeholders make informed decisions.
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