Post-bacc programs in CA?

[butters149]

Hi,

What are some good post-bacc programs in CA that are for students who've never taken any science courses before? I am applying to USC, just need to do my personal statement and get my LORs. I am also planning for CSULA as my backup, but that will be a non-postbacc.

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[Nuggles]

http://services.aamc.org/postbac/

A full list of career changer programs in California can be found at that site. Scripps is to my knowledge the best in California (and one of the best in the nation for career changers), however, I believe their deadline has already passed for this year.

 

[butters149]

Another thing I should add is that some of these schools require a standardized test score. The only one I have are my SATs, and back then I did pretty bad, I did not care, my score was 830 for both sections. But my uGrad GPA is 3.56 from a UC. Would this hurt my chances at USC?

 

[DrNunes]

Another thing I should add is that some of these schools require a standardized test score. The only one I have are my SATs, and back then I did pretty bad, I did not care, my score was 830 for both sections. But my uGrad GPA is 3.56 from a UC. Would this hurt my chances at USC?

My gpa isn't as good as yours, 3.4 in sociology from a small private Holy Names University up in the bay. But my sat score was slightly higher by 100 points. I called USC and the admissions coordinator, who is super great and helpful, told me that my sat scores may hinder my app and suggested I take the Gre and score 575+ on both sections but she said a 600 would be ideal. She did not say what score was needed on the essay portion of the Gre. I am studying for it now and plan to take it April mid month. Pm me is you have any other questions. Hope this helps!

 

[butters149]

Would applying right now and not get in hurt my chances for the next time around?

 

[DrNunes]

You know I was thinking the same thing. I have tried to get a hold of amy the coordinator but haven't had luck. When, if she calls back I will post my findings

 

[Nuggles]

Would applying right now and not get in hurt my chances for the next time around?

I have also actually been thinking the same thing... I took the chance and applied anyways this year and luckily it worked out for me. But yea, I'm still interested about what the answer is

As for testing, a low SAT score (especially if that is your only standardized test score) will hurt your application chances. Taking the GRE and doing well in it can prove that you are a capable test-taker. It might be something to consider, if it won't delay your application by too much (or if you're willing to wait until next year to apply). But I'd wait for someone more knowledgeable to confirm or correct me on this!

 

[DrNunes]

havent heard back yet...

 

[DrNunes]

" I would recommend waiting until you receive your GRE scores to apply as admission decisions are final. There is no cutoff for standardized test scores, but a score lower than 550 in a section might indicate that you are not ready to take on the competitive nature of the science classes at USC.
If you have any further questions, feel free to contact me again.
Regards,
Amy L. Cummings "

I also called and asked what the average admitted gpa and gre scores were. She said that USC does not keep a record on it... but she said anything above a 3.2 is competitive. She also estimated that a 3.4 is the average gpa of those admitted. She also mentioned that USC has no cap on the number of admitted students, they just accept who they believe is capable.

 

[murfettie]

heard bad things about sc postbac from friends.