EXHIBIT 23.1


                      CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS


    We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Report on Form 8-K of
MAXIMUS, Inc. dated May 12, 1998 and in the Registration Statements of MAXIMUS,
Inc. on Form S-8 (File Nos. 333-41867, 333-41869 and 333-41871) of our report
dated March 18, 1998, except for Note L which is as of March 23, 1998, relating
to the financial statements of David M. Griffith & Associates, Ltd. included
in MAXIMUS, Inc.'s Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File 333-49305).


                                        /s/ Grant Thornton LLP

                                        GRANT THORNTON LLP




Chicago, Illinois                       
May 27, 1998