PhD Programs in Genetics: What are my chances?

Graduate School
1

<p>Since applications just opened for Fall 2015 graduate admissions I have been doing a great deal of research on PhD programs in genetics, and I have to say that I am quite concerned about my chances of acceptance. My undergraduate GPA is not that strong, and neither are my current GRE scores (I will be retaking them within the next month, and I am confident I will improve). My GPA started off low and improved significantly, especially in my last two years of undergrad. I did significantly better in upper division biology classes than I did in my introductory courses, so I hope that trend shows something to the admissions boards. I have three semesters of undergraduate research under my belt working in a population genetics lab with Drosophila. </p>

<p>Here is a break down:
Graduated from Stony Brook University with a BS in Biology, specializing in developmental genetics.
GPA = 3.1
3 Semesters of undergraduate research in a population genetics laboratory
GRE Scores: 153 Verbal & Quantitative, 3.5 Writing (Once again, I will be retaking the GRE).</p>

<p>Prospective Genetics PhD Programs:
NYU
Stony Brook University
Rutgers University
Syracuse University
University of Rochester
Washington University of St. Louis
University of Arizona
Oregon Health & Science University
Thomas Jefferson University</p>

<p>Overall, I would like to get a good idea of my chances of getting into these programs, as well as how many programs I should apply to. Or if anyone has any suggestions on other programs to look into that would be great. Any advice will help. Thank you!</p>

2

<p>You already know that your GPA and GRE scores are low. 3 semesters of undergrad research is slightly below average - I think most people do junior and senior year and have 3 semesters when they apply, but four when they graduate. Are you doing research now?</p>

<p>We can’t offer you an idea of your “chances”, as they are based on a lot of factors other than your GPA and GRE scores, and several of which have nothing to do with you personally.</p>