Chart your own path

Would you like to design your own major at JMU? The Independent Scholars program provides motivated students with the flexibility to pursue academic pathways tailored to their interests. 

Why choose Independent Scholars?

• Enjoy the freedom to explore ideas across disciplinary boundaries and fields of study.
• Cultivate creativity, independence, communication, and problem-solving skills in high demand by employers and graduate programs.
• Include experiential learning (Internships, study abroad, and independent studies) in your major.
• Build an individualized major around a stand-alone minor, such as JMU's African and African-American Diaspora Studies (AAAD) minor.