The Question: How can X-Labs develop learners who seize opportunities to passionately solve real-world challenges and contribute to an ecosystem of cross-disciplinary collaborative innovation?

The Answer: We have four unique ways!

Courses

Students in X-Labs courses collaborate with peers and faculty from different colleges and diverse disciplines, using a design-thinking approach to tackle real-world problems. You’ll be working with students and faculty inside and outside of your major  a key ingredient to fostering imagination and innovation!

Curious about what makes X-Labs courses unique?

  • Focused on a Real-World Problem to Solve: Each course at X-Labs starts with a big question or challenge. From there, we follow a special problem-solving approach called design thinking.
  • Taught by Teaching Teams: Every course session is team-taught by professors from different colleges, a design-thinking facilitator, and occasionally an industry expert.
  • Designed for Sophomores and above: These typically elective courses are developed to complement advanced students' academic passions and spark new interest as they pursue career goals. 
  • Small Class Sizes: With an average course size of 20-30 students, students benefit from guided discussions and meaningful team collaborations with students outside their discipline. 
  • Held in Non-Traditional Learning Spaces: Courses take place in The Lab (Lakeview Hall 1150) or The Tank (Lakeview Hall 1160), classrooms equipped with the latest technology and equipment, as well as tools to inspire collaboration and innovation. 

Check out our current course offerings: Current Courses

The Reimagined Internship

The Reimagined Internship is a flexible and intentionally structured cohort program designed to adapt to the strengths of each cohort and the evolving needs of the industry. Look for open applications in the Fall of each year!

See details of The Reimagined Internship program: The Reimagined Internship with Ellucian

Innovation & Impact Fellowship Program

The Innovation & Impact Fellowship Program offers five one-academic-year fellowships for students to work alongside the X-Labs team, gaining leadership and career experience while serving as ambassadors of JMU X-Labs across campus.

Learn more about becoming an X-Labs student fellow: Innovation & Impact Fellowship Program.

JMU Esports

Launched in January 2022, the JMU Esports program is growing rapidly and currently serves over 100 students as players, casters, and marketers.

Join the JMU Esports program: JMU Esports

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