This may be OT, but I am interested in the Harvard Extension in hopes of boosting my GPA. I entered college with no intention of taking graduate courses, but over the years I have gradually accepted my inclination to enter the medical profession. My current major is Chemical Engineering, and I have a 3.395 GPA (slightly less for sciences). From reading these forums I have gathered that my GPA is nowhere near impressive for MD programs in America. Additionally, I need to take a year of biology, and possibly retake (?) the other premed prereqs (I received AP credit for Chem, Calc, and Physics---Is it true that med schools don't like to see AP courses even if subsequent courses are taken?).
Anyway, I understand that for an undergrad degree, Harvard is a pretty good 🙂)) school, but how reputable is their post-bacc program?
And on another note, how reputable is any post-bacc program? Is it actually possible for me to change my career goals this late in the game and come out successful?
Any information would be helpful---I have a meeting scheduled with my school's pre-med office in a few weeks, but I'd like to gather as many opinions as possible----Thanks!
So, to answer your questions as best as I can (and I'm no expert):
First, many students enter medical school from post-bacc programs. Med schools have found that students who, regardless of major, do well in undergrad, do well in their post-bacc studies, and do well on the MCAT, are prepared academically for the rigors of medical school.
Harvard Extension's HCP has a very good reputation among post-bacc programs. I cannot say exactly how it is ranked compared with other programs, or how much of an edge it gives you compared with doing it at other universities. However, at roughly $900/course, HCP is undoubtedly cheaper than many other similar programs.
One bit of advice: make sure your pre-med advisor is aware of HES. The term "extension school" can have many different meanings, not all of which correspond to academic rigor. Again, HES is well regarded among medical school admission folks.
I don't think the AP credit will be an issue given your major, especially with regards to Chem and Calc. However, you should check with your advisor and the various med schools you may be considering. Some schools do sometimes have quirky rules with regards to pre-reqs. On a related note, some also have rules with regards to the "aging" of your pre-reqs.
It is possible to improve your chances by retaking some of your earlier classes in post-bacc. Med schools, particularly DO schools, do give weight to post-bacc performance. Plus, you will have your MCAT; a good score there, along with a solid post-bacc GPA, will go a long way to helping your cause.
