Formal Post Bach program or classes at university ? +

Started by AASDDS1
This forum made possible through the generous support of SDN members, donors, and sponsors. Thank you.
Get help with your application

Use all the free resources available to you from SDN: articles, guides, expert advising, forums discussions, and school research.

AASDDS1

Full Member
10+ Year Member
Advertisement - Members don't see this ad
I've been reading that post bach programs serve 2 purposes: boosting a low UG gpa and providing a structured/regimented courseload for those with little or no science background.

well, i kind of fall into both categories. my UG gpa was around a 2.9 and it was in finance. so, i need science classes, but i also want to raise my overall gpa.

the post-bach programs look really nice and show great stats for acceptance rates afterwards, but they're expensive and there are none in my area.

would i be at a huge disadvantage if i simply enrolled in a 4-yr univ locally as a non degree seeking student to simply fulfill the science pre reqs? it would take me 2 semesters + 1 summer intercession + 1 winter intercession to complete about 41 hours.
 
I've been reading that post bach programs serve 2 purposes: boosting a low UG gpa and providing a structured/regimented courseload for those with little or no science background.

well, i kind of fall into both categories. my UG gpa was around a 2.9 and it was in finance. so, i need science classes, but i also want to raise my overall gpa.

the post-bach programs look really nice and show great stats for acceptance rates afterwards, but they're expensive and there are none in my area.

would i be at a huge disadvantage if i simply enrolled in a 4-yr univ locally as a non degree seeking student to simply fulfill the science pre reqs? it would take me 2 semesters + 1 summer intercession + 1 winter intercession to complete about 41 hours.

You won't be at a disadvantage. Your task is still the same whether you do an informal or formal post-bacc. Get A's, build ECs, do well on the MCATs, and apply early and broadly. The formal post-baccs have bells and whistles that a lot of non-trads find helpful (essay advice, application advice, committee letters, enforced deadlines, help finding shadowing & volunteer opportunities, MCAT help, etc.) but none of it is anything you can't manufacture for yourself with a little diligence.