James Madison University Launches Guarantees for Graduates and Employers
News related to:James Madison University · 2 min read
HARRISONBURG, Va., Oct. 02, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- James Madison University (JMU) has introduced a new initiative aimed at enhancing the value of its graduates to both employers and the job market. Starting with the Class of 2027, the university is implementing a two-part promise known as The JMU Guarantees, which extends the institution’s commitment to student success beyond graduation.
At the core of this initiative is the Employment Guarantee, which ensures that every bachelor’s degree graduate will secure a positive career outcome within one year of graduation. A positive career outcome includes employment, graduate or professional school, military service, or a service or volunteer year. If a graduate does not achieve this within the one-year timeframe, JMU will continue to provide support at no added cost. This support can include career advising and coaching, resume and interview assistance, connections with employers and alumni, additional work-based learning opportunities, learning modules, and eligible undergraduate coursework.
The initiative is part of JMU’s broader strategic plan, The Madison Promise, which aims to provide a comprehensive educational experience that extends beyond the classroom.
The JMU Guarantees also extend to the employers who hire its graduates. Under the Employer Guarantee, employers of recent JMU undergraduate alumni can request coaching and continued learning resources when they identify gaps in essential workplace skills. The support is available for the first three years after graduation and comes at no cost to the employer. Areas of support include communication, teamwork, problem-solving, critical thinking, entrepreneurial thinking, and AI literacy.
Kathy Warden, a JMU alumna and chair, CEO, and president of Northrop Grumman, praised JMU’s investment in its students and the employers who hire them.
The initiative is built on JMU’s existing approach to career preparation, which combines rigorous undergraduate education with research, internships, work-based learning, career coaching, mentoring, and connections with employers and alumni. According to JMU’s Class of 2025 career outcomes, 95% of bachelor’s graduates reached a positive career outcome, while 84% completed at least one work-based learning experience.
Dr. Angela Reddix, a member of JMU’s Board of Visitors and founder of ARDX, highlighted the significance of the JMU Guarantees.
Eric Bowlin, a partner at Deloitte & Touche LLP and former president of the JMU Alumni Association, noted the value of the JMU Guarantees from both the perspective of a JMU alumnus and an employer who hires emerging talent.
The JMU Guarantees are a central component of The Madison Promise, which establishes a long-term vision for the university and its commitment to students, the Commonwealth of Virginia, and beyond. By extending its support to both graduates and employers, JMU is setting a new standard for accountability and the value of a college degree.