ABSN Programs/cGPA questions!

[LightBread]

Hi yall,

I just recently graduated from UCSB with a cumulative/overall GPA of 2.97 and I was interested in a career in nursing. I graduated with a B.A. in biological sciences, but did very poorly my first two years (Pre-req classes). My Pre-Req gpa is lower than my overall GPA and I'm thinking about re-taking my pre-req classes that I did poorly in (Gen Chem, Physics, some bio classe) and also take anatomy and physiology. I realize that I have screwed up my first couple years of my undergrad. However, I'm determined to receive As as I have started to pick up my study habits during my final two years. I was just wondering how re-taking pre-reqs will work regarding my cumulative GPA. Will it average out with the grades I received at UCSB or will it not have any impact since UCs and CCs are different? I was just a bit confused on how it works as the college I will be re-taking my pre-reqs will be a semester system while UCSB was a quarter system. Also, I plan to apply to ABSN programs at places like Cal State Long Beach, LA, etc. Thanks for the input.

[justwanttohelp12]

It's going to be an uphill battle for you, not necessarily impossible but very very slim chance of you getting into CSULB/LA. I'm going to be completely honest with you and say that your GPA is not competitive for either program. I understand CSULA looks at the applicant holistically, but unless you have X amount of years as a CNA/EMT/volunteer/etc and a 95%+ on the TEAS, there is nothing to look at other than your GPA. Also, keep in mind CSULA has a repeat rule where you can repeat 1 prereq only. If you repeat more than 1 prereq then you are automatically disqualified. CSULB's traditional BSN (they no longer have ABSN) is likely out of the question. Their Fall 2017 cohort have an average science GPA of 3.96 ranging from 3.7-4.0. I have researched both programs extensively. I also graduated biological sciences from an UC school with 2.9 GPA but my nursing prereq GPA is around 3.8. My advice to you is to not waste time retaking gen bio/physics because nursing programs don't look at those. You need to ace whatever nursing prereq you haven't taken and don't rule out applying to ADN programs. If you are set on applying to ABSN programs, you should look at CSUSM. Their program looks at your last 60 semester/90 quarter units. They will average your retakes and take your first quarter of Ochem to cover their chemistry requirement. PM if you want more info.