GPA of Upper Division & Lower Division courses and M.S degree

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the impact of lower division course grades on graduate school admissions and job prospects for a Mechanical Engineering graduate with a 3.5 overall GPA. The participant expressed concern over receiving Ds, Fs, and withdrawals in lower-level courses, questioning their significance compared to upper division performance. Responses indicate that while lower division grades are noted, strong upper division performance, good recommendation letters, and GRE scores are critical factors for admission to top graduate programs and securing employment.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of GPA calculation and its implications in academic settings.
  • Familiarity with graduate school admission processes, including the role of recommendation letters.
  • Knowledge of GRE requirements and their importance in graduate applications.
  • Awareness of job application evaluation criteria in engineering fields.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the significance of upper division GPA in graduate school admissions.
  • Explore strategies for obtaining strong recommendation letters from professors.
  • Learn about effective GRE preparation techniques and resources.
  • Investigate how employers assess academic performance during job applications.
USEFUL FOR

Recent graduates, prospective graduate students, and job seekers in engineering fields who are concerned about the impact of their academic history on future opportunities.

Leo S
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I just graduated from a University. I was in Mechanical Engineering major. My overall GPA is 3.5. However, I have some problems with my Lower-level division courses. While I was in Freshman and Sophomore years, I had some Ds, Fs and W in some Math and G.E subjects.
I did very very well in my Junior and Senior years. Can these grades of D,F be serious barriers to me by the time I go to Top Graduate Universities for my M.S degree or I apply for a job? I think that they look at everything even though Upper Division courses are more important.

Is there anyone who have the same experience as me? Thanks.
 
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Those lower division grades won't be a problem. For jobs, a 3.5 is absolutely fine. For graduate school, assuming that you will have good recommendation letters and you do well on the GREs, you'll get into a good school.
 

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