Graduate programs I can get into?

State Forums
1

I graduated from Emory with a B.A. in environmental science with a meager 3.059 cumulative GPA, although my major GPA is a 3.2. Unfortunately, my GPA for the last 60 credit hours of undergrad is just under 3.0. I’ve been working as an ecologist for the past two years and have gained some pretty awesome experience during that time. I’m interested in getting into a M.S. program in an environmental field (environmental science, biology, ecology, geoscience). Currently I’m looking at USF, FAU, Nova Southeastern, and UNF…but with a 3.059 cumulative GPA I’m worried that I’m wasting my time. Can anyone recommend any schools to me that I could get into with my GPA?

2

@“Relict Trillium”
I’m sure you can leverage your big name degree with a great GRE score to compensate. Do you want to stay in Florida, or do you feel that is your only chance to get into grad school. If you were you since your GPA isn’t the best, I would study hard for the GRE and cast a very wide net. Be willing to spend thousand on application fees and plane tickets.

3

You are not wasting your time. And you do not need to spend thousands on applications & plane tickets. You are applying for a masters degree in a non-competitive field. All of those schools will welcome your application.

4

Thanks for the advice – I’m looking to stay in Florida because my fiance’s family lives there, although I’d be willing to go to another state if my options are truly limited. Do you have any recommendations outside of Florida? Would applying to a M.A. program instead of a M.S. improve my odds?

5

@Publisher those are the words of encouragement I was hoping to find. Thank you my friend.

6

It depends upon the school program & your qualifications as reflected in your transcript & research & writings.

7

I’d emphasize the experience you gained working. Emory is well known and respected, so a B average there is nothing to sneeze at. I’ve found in masters’ programs sometimes the people with work experience in the field bring just as much to the class as the instructor, simply because they have real life CURRENT experience to share. That greatly enhances what we learn in class. Definitely play that aspect up – how working in the field has made you even more passionate about expanding your knowledge, etc.

I think you will have a great shot at FAU, maybe others. If I were on the admissions committee I’d be LOOKING for students like you. Good luck!