Programs Is taking to many classes bad for app. to PHd?

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Taking a heavier course load in a master's program can be beneficial for students aiming to apply for PhD programs, as it demonstrates a willingness to tackle challenging material and can enhance qualifications. The notion that fewer classes indicate deeper concentration is viewed as flawed; interdisciplinary coursework can be advantageous and may even improve application evaluations. Graduate committees often appreciate strong performance across related fields, which can positively impact overall application scores. However, maintaining high grades and gaining research experience is crucial, as these factors outweigh the number of classes taken. A strong master's GPA can help mitigate a lower undergraduate GPA, especially if the student shows improvement and capability in their master's studies. Ultimately, if a student can manage the workload, taking more classes can lead to greater learning and preparation for future academic pursuits.
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Somebody told me recently that taking too many class looks bad because "it seems" that taking fewer classes shows that the student is concentrating more in depth.

I want to take 5 this coming semester. I naturally would think that this is helping me become more qualified (taking a harder load). Assuming I get all A's either way, which is better for a student in a masters program right now who wants to apply to a PhD school in a year?

Thanks for your input.
 
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Unassuming said:
Somebody told me recently that taking too many class looks bad because "it seems" that taking fewer classes shows that the student is concentrating more in depth.

I think this is incorrect advice. Lots of presently ongoing research occurs at the overlap of disciplines (ex. materials science). When I was a member of a graduate selections committee, after looking for strong performance in coursework in the primary field, I looked for strong performance in coursework in related fields. I often bumped up my reading of the application by ~0.5-1 points (on a scale of ten) if I saw complementary work (or a minor or major) in a second (or even third) field.

Granted, you should still perform well in those additional courses... and have time for research experiences. More classes won't make up for a poor GRE's, a poor GPA and no research.
 
How do graduate committees usually feel about a low bachelor's GPA (with a couple F's that were repeated so that the GPA did not count) and then a high masters GPA? Say, 3.3 then 3.9 respectively.
 
Unassuming said:
Somebody told me recently that taking too many class looks bad because "it seems" that taking fewer classes shows that the student is concentrating more in depth.

I'm going to agree that this advice isn't only wrong, it's illogical. As long as you have the time to do everything needed, there's no reason NOT to take as many courses as you can handle.

...Duh.
:)-Simply
 
Thank you for your replies. I am taking as many courses as I can right now. I am learning more that way.
 

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