If someone has a relatively low undergraduate GPA, is it better to go for a master’s degree in a science/public health specialty (and do really well) or take more science classes (to raise the GPA) prior to applying to medical school?

This is an extremely tough question, and it’s taken me much longer than usual to think about it. I’ve polled friends, and there doesn’t seem to be a consensus either way. So the truthful answer: I don’t know.

I have a dear friend who went the master’s degree route to direct attention away from his weak undergrad GPA, and it worked out well for him–accepted to an M.D./Ph.D. program, no less. Then again, he graduated with both a B.S. and M.S. in 4 years, was scientifically published, and had solid recommendations, so an additional degree was certainly not the only thing going for him. Did I mention he also sang a cappella and helped manage a free clinic for the underserved?

I have to say that this choice is best left to your judgment, and that I wish you the best of luck regardless of what you choose. Some things I would encourage you to consider:

  • what’s the difference that extra science courses will make in your GPA? If it’s the difference between a 3.4 and a 3.5, this is considerably less impressive than the difference between a 2.9 and 3.0.
  • how much time/money will each option take? Admissions committees do seem to have some preference for people who take a year or two off after undergrad to pursue other interests, but is it worth the extra cost of grabbing another degree?
  • are you just pursuing an M.S. or M.P.H. for the sake of looking good to a committee, or are you actually interested in going in depth in the field? If it’s the former, are there other things you could do to strengthen your application, whether it’s research, other work experience, fellowships abroad, etc.?

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“Hey Jae” is a series that publicly answers questions from pre-med students. I get these from time to time through facebook, e-mail, etc., so I figured if one person’s wondering, more likely are too. Feel free to pose a question of your own through my contact page! As always, best of luck. :-)