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[dr_stones]

Imagine a student who graduated with a 2.8 GPA. Her low grades are mostly from her science classes (organic chemistry, for instance).

She is interested in graduate school in order to be a dietician, and her background degree is relevant. However, she is very concerned her low grades will hold her back. What could a student like her do to make up for those low grades?

And in general, are students with poor undergraduate records considered for graduate course work in your field? What helps them earn their edge?

Usually only the last 60 hours of an undergraduate degree are considered at most institutions.  A strong performance on the GRE or other appropriate admission exam can also compensate.  A carefully honed letter of reference that explaines and offsets the deficiencies is also good.

[hmaria1609]

I had a similar GPA as previous posters mentioned when I applied for grad programs in library science. I was a history major--I did fine in my major classes but not so well in a few electives.  I was accepted on condition and it would taken off once I completed 12 credits.  Since I only took 3 classes per semester my 1st year, the condition was removed in the spring.  I'm happy to say I had much better GPA in grad school!

[peanutgallery]

I had a similar GPA as previous posters mentioned when I applied for grad programs in library science. I was a history major--I did fine in my major classes but not so well in a few electives.  I was accepted on condition and it would taken off once I completed 12 credits.  Since I only took 3 classes per semester my 1st year, the condition was removed in the spring.  I'm happy to say I had much better GPA in grad school!

hmaria1609, may I ask if your being accepted on condition made a difference in your financial aid?  Though there were some LD issues involved in my sketchy past, my situation might be similar and I'm curious how it worked out for you.

I hope this doesn't count as hijacking?