Grad level courses in Houston

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Hi! I need advice on how to take grad level courses here in houston. I'm a '91 graduate and my GPA isn't that great so i'm trying to make up for it by taking pre- reqs and grad level courses. I also have 15 years nursing experience, 8 of which is in the ICU. I have CCRN and CVRN certifications.

My biggest problem is my GPA being less than 3. I was young and not really into nursing when I was in school but i've come to love what i'm doing and would like to be a CRNA. What else can I do to improve my chances of getting into the program? Please help!:imbar

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Specializes in MICU mainly, Now on to anesthesia school.

I don't know that I would worry too much about taking grad level classes if your other numbers (i.e. GRE are okay). My early GPA was weak but my later classes were markedly improved. I only interviewed at one of the Houston schools, but they asked me about it and were satisfied with the answer. They understand that the early college years are often full of distractions. If I were you I would make sure everything else looks good (CCRN, GRE, other activities, etc...). Go back and take some undergrad science courses (especially if they are weak spots on your transcripts). Not only will this help show you are committed and capable of doing the work, it will also be a benefit when you actually start school. If I knew then what I know now, I would have retaken some chemistry prior to starting CRNA school. But that's just my two cents...

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Specializes in SICU.

Retake courses that you bombed, especially A&P, Pharm, and Organic. This can aid in your GPA depending how the school factors retakes, and it also shows that you are serious and want to get in. Rock the GRE as well. This is all advice I have been told from CRNAs/SRNAs as I have been on my quest for school. Good luck! I am sure with your experience, showing initiative by retaking courses, and a good interview, that they will be able to look past your prior performance with a little explanation. They were young once too I imagine:specs:.

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Hi,

Most CRNA programs require B's or better in all of your core sciences. This may mean retaking chemistry, micro, A&P, and biochem if you received less than a B. Although taking grad classes and getting A's will look good, most programs still require the B's in the sciences. Some programs also want your science courses to be no more than 8 yrs old, so you may need to retake them anyway. My advice would be to research programs you are interested in. Contact the schools and find out what you will need to be a good candidate. Another big plus for you would be to nail the GRE. Get a score greater than 1000, but preferably greater than 1200. This will help offset your GPA. Good luck!

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