2.89 GPA in BS Computer Science, chances of getting into a MS Industrial/Systems Engineering Program

Graduate School
1

Hi, this is a lot so please bear with me.

Here is some background information:
-I graduated ~6 years ago with a BS in Comp Sci from a very good private engineering school
-My GPA was pitiful (2.89/4.0), I had a lot going on and tended to either nail my classes (A) or just completely blew it (C- or D), but never in between.
-I landed a job before graduating as a junior software engineer at a large well known investment bank. Although my grades weren’t impressive, I’m a strong interviewer and a very good programmer.
-I transitioned to a technical PM role (still in the IB space) a couple years ago (~4 years of software engineering experience and I got promoted twice) and have been very successful in my new career track. My managers have been happy with my work and I enjoy what I’ve been doing.
-I’m personable and a pretty good writer (especially compared to my peers)

My question now:
-I would like to return for my masters and would like to pursue a MS in Industrial or Systems Engineering. I have a strong technical background, and 6 years of industry experience. I have received approval from my boss for part of my masters to be covered by the company. So all that said, what are my chances of getting into a school like Columbia or Johns Hopkins for a part time masters in their MS Industrial/Systems Engineering programs?
-I haven’t taken the GRE yet, but besides obviously shooting for perfect scores, what’ the minimum I should get in order to have some sort of a shot?
-If I start my masters at my undergraduate school (I know I’ll be good to go here), how hard is it to transfer credits to another school?
-How much weight does my working experience have on my chances of getting accepted?
-Will strong recommendation letters from my current/previous managers help since I’ve been working for a good amount now?
-Should I attempt to explain my GPA in my personal statement at all? Or just leave it to them to decide?

Sorry, I know that was a lot but please let me know what you think! I’ll update whenever I take the GRE, but based on the practice tests, I’m expecting over 165 in Quant and over 160 in Verbal .

Thanks,
A

2

What’re you looking to do with your degree afterward?

There’s a lot of part time programs in Systems Engineering so do you have options. They’re usually easier to get into as well.

It’s usually better to go to a school close to where you live/wanna live or has a good nationwide name.

Good luck!