Increasing the Science GPA

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Would taking "easier" lower level science courses count towards the science GPA? Currently my science GPA is ~3.2 and I'm looking to increase this without retaking courses. Any insight?

Also, how disadvantageous would taking science pre-reqs at community colleges be for an applicant?

Thanks all 👍

 

[papertiger]

No, you should only take upper division science classes such as Mathematical Physics, quantum electrodynamics, Advanced Biochem, and P.Chem.

 

[elephunt]

I would recommend upper-division science classes, since I think adcoms might see through your taking the "easier" science classes just to boost your science GPA...or you could try a mix of upper and lower. If you can get good grades in upper division classes, that would boost your science GPA and show adcoms that you can succeed in challenging science classes...IMO.

I'm not sure about the community college question. You might ask a pre-med advisor at your school, or try to get in touch with one if your current school doesn't have one. I would think that if you have the option to take your pre-reqs at a non-community college institution, it would look better on your application, simply because community college classes have a reputation for being easier.

 

[lorelei]

Taking easy science classes will boost your BCPM GPA, if you do well in them. (Not always a given - sometimes it's easier to blow off an "easy" class.) AMCAS counts any bio/chem/physics/math class. If adcoms look closely at your record and see "Bio 100: Personal Hygiene for Comp Sci Majors" they might not be fooled though.

My premed advisor told me to avoid taking prereqs at community college - she said adcoms want to see 4-year accredited schools, though you don't necessarily have to take them at the most challenging schools.

 

[Gerg]

Upper division classes are often more specialized and smaller in class size. This usually means more instructor interaction, fewer tests, and fewer concpets (although the concepts visited are explored much more in depth). There is also a tendancy to get away from multiple choice tests, so there is that wonderful partial credit!

For these reasons, I would make the argument that upper division courses are actually easier to get good grades in if you put the work in than lower division courses. Plus it will look better if your transcript if filled with 200-400 level courses than 101's.


Gerg

 

[skoop]

you should seriously consider taking the more difficult classes. not only will those easy science classes be a waste of your time, but adcoms will NOT be fooled by the inflated GPA. just take a couple of hard science classes and DO WELL in them.

taking your lower division science requirements at a two year college shouldn't be a problem, granted that you do good on you mcats.

good luck!