Marquette University DE MSN program?

dunnowhat · Apr 19, 2008

Yo I have not even applied (planning on applying in January) yet but I really would like to go. Do you have any suggestions about getting in? What are your stats? Do you know what the average stats are? Anywho sorry about the standard questions.

Bree124, BSN, RN · Apr 21, 2008

Hi,

I don't really have any suggestions about getting in, as I don't know a ton about how they determine admission, other than GPA.

According to the program coordinator, last year's average GPA was just over 3.5. Mine was right around there, so I was fairly confident about getting in (although very nervous until I found out for sure).

Everyone says to put a lot of thought into your essay - I definitely agree with this, especially if your grades and work history don't make you stand out. I did several re-writes of my essay and had a few people look it over for me, but looking back I wish I had spent even more time on it. I felt that it was possibly the weakest point of my application.

Since you have time left before you need to apply, I would try to get some volunteer experience, especially in a medical setting if possible. I had volunteer experience as a crisis line counselor, and I think that possibly helped my application.

Good luck!

dunnowhat · Apr 21, 2008

Thanks a lot. I have been working in a hospital for about 2 years and just got a job in the psychiatric unit. I have some certs and stuff and did awesome on my GRE (1500) but my GPA is floating around a 2.9 so I don't even think I have a shot at it because of that. Any suggestions? I screwed around waaaaaaay too much and I worked a lot.

Bree124, BSN, RN · Apr 22, 2008

To be honest, they say they won't consider a GPA under 3.0. However, since your GRE score is so high, I don't know if you really lose anything (other than $40) by applying. You have good work experience, strong test scores, and if you write a killer essay, they may be willing to overlook the GPA.

They also allow you to add an addendum to your application stating any reasons for a low GPA. If you are honest and admit that you weren't as focused then as you will be this time around, you may have a shot!

Call and talk to the director - she is a wealth of information, and may be able to tell you if they ever bend the 3.0 minimum.

Good luck!