College of Business - Differential Tuition FAQ

Differential tuition is common among top business schools and supports the educational experience in numerous ways. Currently additional funding ensures students experience state-of-the–art technology, such as the Capital Markets Lab and supports the Office of Experiential Learning which provides learning tours, professional networking opportunities, and professional development activities, all of which result in more internship and job placement opportunities for students.  

Students are charged $50 per credit hour for courses taken in the College of Business.  Over a four-year undergraduate program, that amounts to approximately $3,100 for most business majors. 

All students enrolled in College of Business courses, with the exception of ECON 200, macroeconomics, are charged differential tuition, regardless of their major.

Differential tuition is the same for in-state and out-of-state students.

Yes. Currently, the School of Nursing charges an additional $90 per credit hour.

Differential tuition is very common among top business schools:

• The University of Virginia currently charges an additional $3,000 per year to students in the McIntire School of Commerce.
• Virginia Tech, Virginia Commonwealth, and George Mason charge fees similar to JMU’s.

The Office of Experiential Learning, the Capital Markets Lab, the Undergraduate Research program are among the programs funded by differential tuition.

Student organizations in the College of Business receive support for conference travel and other activities.

Because differential tuition is considered a fee, as outlined in the 529 plan contract, it is not part of prepaid plans.  However, it can be paid out of 529 college savings accounts.