How do Entry Level Master's Programs calculate GPA/weigh Extracurriculars?

Hello Everyone,

I'm new to this forum, but thought that this was a great opportunity to find out more about what is going on in the nursing realm. I am in the same dilemma that many other students applying to grad schools have -- a low GPA.

Currently, I am finishing up my Undergraduate degree at the University of California at Irvine. During my first two years of college, my GPA was extremely subpar due to family reasons and a lack of motivation to do well. I have, however, increased my performance to being on the deans honor's list for the past 2 years. Unfortunately, my cumulative UC gpa is still quite low.

Aside from my UC GPA, I have been taking prerequisites and repeating courses at community colleges around my area, while participating in clinical research, interning at UCI medical center, and working at a clinic as a medical scribe/medical assistant.

Ideally, I hope to apply and attend an Entry-level masters in nursing program, however, I was wondering if anyone knew exactly how these programs calculate GPAs? I know that some of them offer grade forgiveness (that is, if a class is retaken, then the higher grade will replace the previously earned grade), but others calculate based off of "cumulative undergraduate GPA". This meaning, that I would have to stay a student at UCI until the end of this year so that those extra courses at CC count toward my undergraduate GPA?

If someone could give me some advice and/or clarification, it would be much appreciated! I'm really hoping that I can try applying to several schools by next year, but if a Post-bacc is highly reccommended/preferred, I will look into applying to those as well.

Thank you!