Two Undergraduate Degrees

Question

I'm looking to apply to an MBA program soon, and I have a question on how the schools look at undergraduate GPAs.

I have two undergraduate degrees: one is a B.S. in Biological Sciences (GPA 3.2) from UC Irvine and the other is a B.S. in Electronics Engineering Technology (GPA 3.84) from DeVry. Do the schools combine the GPA/credits or are the GPAs considered separately?

I have also read that the graduate schools may not take into account my DeVry credits, but I am not sure this contention is accurate as DeVry is regionally accredited by the North Central Association. I'm hoping I would be able to use my DeVry credits since it would really help my overall undergraduate GPA.

Thanks in advanced.

Accepted.com · Answer

They will look at both transcripts and and at the school where you took the classes. Since UCI is considered more rigorous and challenging than DeVry, they may discount your 3.84 slightly. BTW, the 3.2 may not give you bragging rights, but it also isn't bad.

Good luck!

Hjort · Answer

Which degree was awarded first?

cosmicstarr · Answer

Hi Hjort,

I completed my Bio degree at UC Irvine first in 1994. The Electronics Eng Tech degree from DeVry was obtained in 1999. I currently work as a Sales Engineer for a power quality company, so my job utilizes my DeVry education more. Does it matter which degree is older?

Hi Linda,

Thanks for the reply. I know the UC Irvine 3.2 GPA isn't that bad, but when I think back at those late teen/early 20 years, I know I could have applied myself a lot more at the time.

Also, I was wondering how the DeVry GPA would be discounted. I know it may not be from the most prestigous school, but I jumped at the opportunity to take their B.S. in Electronics Eng Tech program completely tuition free, as my mom was working there at the time.

Thanks in advanced.

Hjort · Answer

A common rule of thumb is that your first BA/BS degree is counted as the "real" BA/BS for direct comparison purposes with other students and the second BA/BS is counted more like a graduate degree in the sense that it provides extra information about your academic capabilities. 

Hjort

Accepted.com · Answer

I'm not sure that the first degree will be give more weight because it's the first degree. It may be given more weight because it is from a more prestigous school or one that is considered more rigorous. The good news is that you completed both degrees a long time ago. I suspect that any concerns about your academic performance will be addressed with your GMAT. If you do well, then they will tend to look more favorably on your academic record. If you don't do so well....

Taking a few business related courses now may also help you.

Good luck!

Two Undergraduate Degrees

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