Pass or Fail a Gen-Ed Class? Will it hurt me?

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SUMMARY

A senior engineering major is considering taking a 200-level theater class on a pass/fail basis to fulfill general education requirements. The discussion reveals that while some institutions allow pass/fail grading for gen-ed courses, it is essential to verify specific policies. The consensus is that graduate committees are unlikely to prioritize pass/fail grades, especially given the student's strong overall GPA (>3.5), solid recommendation letters, and extensive internship experience (four internships).

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of academic grading systems, specifically pass/fail versus letter grades.
  • Familiarity with general education requirements in higher education.
  • Knowledge of graduate school admissions processes and criteria.
  • Awareness of institutional policies regarding course grading options.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research specific institutional policies on pass/fail grading for general education courses.
  • Investigate the impact of pass/fail grades on graduate school applications.
  • Explore strategies for maintaining a strong GPA while fulfilling gen-ed requirements.
  • Learn about effective ways to enhance graduate applications beyond GPA, such as extracurricular activities and internships.
USEFUL FOR

Undergraduate students, particularly engineering majors, academic advisors, and anyone navigating general education requirements and graduate school applications.

fizzziks
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I'm a senior engineering major. I'm currently taking my general education requirements, particularly a theater class at the 200 level.

Is it bad if I do a pass/fail grade instead of an actual letter grade? Would the graduate committee (for whichever school I apply to) even notice/care? I have a solid overall and major GPA (>3.5), with some good rec letters, lots of clubs+activities, and many internships (4 internships).
 
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I'm surprised your institution will let you take a gen-ed credit (to fulfill gen-ed requirements) as a pass/fail course, so you'll want to look into that more thoroughly, but I don't think graduate committees will care in the admissions process.
 

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