<p>is the grading curve REALLY as bad as some people say it is to the extent that it can ruin your chances for a good grad school? Also, how good is the nation wide reputation one could achieve from getting a degree from Marshall?</p>
<p>Think of it this way.... </p>
<p>There are 100 students in a classroom that all have equal or near equal GPAs and SAT scores as you. It's a given that these students are serious about academics and probably work just as hard as you, if not harder. </p>
<p>You guys take a test which you studied very hard for, but the problem is that everyone else worked hard as well. So let's say you get a 88 out of a 100 - not bad. You should get a B+ right? Well no. Everyone else worked hard and the class average is a 86. So since the Marshall curve sets the average, which is a 86 in this case, at a B-, your "B+" now gets dropped to either a B- or B depending on how tight the curve is. </p>
<p>It's a tough curve cause you have to excel beyond your peers to receive high grades. For things like law school where you have to get high GPAs to get into a top 20 program, you're just putting yourself through a LOT more stress by going the Marshall route.</p>
<p>With that said, Marshall will give you options. At least you know that if you decide to change your mind, you won't be stuck with a non-professional degree that won't get you anywhere in terms of a career. </p>
<p>An UG degree from Marshall is very good. Don't listen to what people on CC say, USC is THE business school in LA and easily top 3 in the West. As for the East? I really can't say because I've never lived in the East. My personal opinion is that USC is a popular school so I don't think you'll have a problem with reputation. A top 10 program is usually known by those in business.</p>
<p>I took my first business class last semester (BUAD 304) and had no trouble getting an A in the class. The curve is a 2.9 inbetween a B- and B so it's really not that horrible. (let me add that i recieved the highest grade in the class and hardly did any work at all (an hour a week besides reading) and got trashed nearly everyday of the week). Competition is not as hard as you think it is.</p>