low GPA, any hope?

[Guest717328]

Hi this is my first time posting to the forum.

I currently graduated with a 2.8 gpa in Nutrition Sciences. I wanted a change of field and wanted to pursue nursing. I did semi okay in most of my sciences ranging from B's to C's. I recently spoke to an advisor from Northeastern Unversity. She said my gpa was low and gave me a few schools to look at. I did look at them but none were direct entry into nurse practitioner programs.

I was wondering if there was another way to get into it. I know some schools near where I live (NC) have a second bachelors in nursing and it is accelerated. Then you would be able to get your RN. Only problem is that some require ONLY 3.0. I'm feeling frustrated and was wondering if there is a list of schools for accelerated programs anyone might know of? I don't mind doing any online programs if they have those in other states.

[mzaur]

Direct entry programs are competitive. Even if you get your GPA up to meet the minimum 3.0, you'll be competing against many who have 3.4+. If you can get into a BSN program, that might be your best choice. You'll be able to raise your GPA considerably and also show your dedication to nursing. You might be able to get to the 3.0 minimum by taking classes locally at a community college. You don't need to be in nursing program to take classes. I took around 10 or so nursing/science classes at a local CC as a visiting student. Also, when it comes time to apply for MSN/DNP programs, if you do really good on GREs and have great letters of rec, that can certainly offset a poor GPA

[phieud]

The only one I know of is APU, but I did not look into other ones. You're going to have to do your own research and look at each individual program's admission requirements page to see if they will consider applicants under 3.0. What you can do to boost your chances is score VERY good on the GRE (which will only help you with schools that require GRE), get healthcare experience (EMT, phlebotomy, CNA, etc), volunteer, more than 1 language, great personal statement, great rec letters, etc. Basically, any other factor that they will consider, you must excel in to compensate for your low GPA. Another route you can go to is the physician assistant route. I know a lot consider applicants as low as 2.5, however those programs usually require a significant amount of healthcare experience. And no, you will not find any online programs for direct entry.