Science GPA Improvements

cassdevo11, BSN · Nov 3, 2019

I am looking for some advice for improving my science GPA to be a more competitive applicant for CRNA school. I am currently a nurse in a 30 bed CVICU for 1.5 years. I serve on two committees, am a preceptor, and have my ACLS/PALS/BLS/CCRN. I am also fluent in Spanish, which I'm not sure will aide me in any way. I have shadowed CRNAs at several different facilities. I have also taken the GRE and scored a 313.

My real weakness in my application is my science GPA, a measly 3.0-3.1, depending on which science classes are included. I got a B- in Gen Chem 1, B- in Gen Chem 2, and B- in Anatomy, with A's and B's in all other science courses. My overall GPA is a 3.6 though. I understand that these classes all have core material for CRNA school, but honestly I just didn't put in the effort back then, as I was an 18 year old who had no idea what I wanted to do with my life.

I have already submitted a few applications, just hoping to get a start on the application process and to possibly get some feedback from schools. I have also been in contact with several schools asking about whether they would prefer grad level courses or retaking the core science courses, and I have gotten very mixed answers. I was just wondering if anyone has any insight on which courses are preferred. I have the option to take online anatomy and general chemistry 1 at UNE Online, which is self paced but it does get expensive. I could also take graduate level pharmacology/pathophysiology at UMass Online in the spring. Either way, I would like to do another round of applications this spring/summer, so I have limited time to get the classes done. I would be very appreciative of any recommendations. Thanks for your time!