1974
Madison College began to offer tutoring in various subjects to support learning and student retention. Notably, the Writing Center was established in Wilson Hall’s cozy top floor.
1993
The Mathematics Department began a Math Lab serving students by appointment only in Burruss Hall. With an increase in requests from students, the Math Lab changed to a walk-in center and moved to the 1st floor of Wilson Hall.
2000
The College of Science and Mathematics expanded the support services to include Physics and renamed the Math Lab to the Science and Math Learning Center.
2005
James Madison University established the Learning Resource Centers to consolidate The Science and Math Learning Center, the Universit Writing Center, the Communication Center, and Disability Services. As part of Student Success Programs, the LRC shared support from both Academic and Student Affairs. The Science and Math Learning Center returned to a larger, dedicated space in Roop Hall.
2008
English Language Learner Services was founded. The Science and Math Learning Center added Chemistry to its committed services.
2009
The Learning Centers became an academic department that included five programs serving students in communication, writing, science and math, English language, and supplemental instruction. To further expand its scope, the Office of Disability Services continued as a department within Student Affairs.
2014
The Centers moved into one space together as a cohesive unit in the new Student Success Center and Digital Communication Consulting (DigiComm) was founded.
2019
DigiComm’s essential services merged with the University Writing Center.
2024
Academic Success Coaching began operations to serve all JMU students with comprehensive guidance and resources. The Science and Math Learning Center began supporting Philosophy.
2025
Multilingual Student Services transitioned to offering essential services on demand as English Language Consulting.
Today
The Learning Centers provide support across disciplines and ranks in six areas:
- Communication Center
- Peer-Assisted Study Sessions (PASS, or Supplemental Instruction)
- Science & Math Learning Center (SMLC)
- University Writing Center
- Academic Success Coaching
- English Language Consultations
MSC 1023
738 South Mason Street
Room Suite 1100-1167
Harrisonburg, Virginia 22807
