Will this hurt my graduate admissions chances?

In summary, the speaker is concerned about not being able to take an engineering electromagnetics course until their senior year, potentially putting them at a disadvantage for graduate school applications in antenna engineering. They have a high GPA, research experience, and strong letters of recommendation, but are worried about the impact of not taking this key course earlier. The response suggests that while a high GPA and relevant coursework are important, research and a strong interview may also play a significant role in the admissions process.
  • #1
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I'm in electrical engineering, and my current strongest interest right now is in antenna engineering (after much electromagnetics self study). The problem is, due to the way the courses are scheduled at my school, it is entirely possible that I won't be able to take our engineering electromagnetics course until the spring of my senior year (I'm going into junior year right now). Clearly, electromagnetics is incredibly important for antenna engineering. I feel it will put me at a disadvantage applying to grad schools (especially top-tier schools) if I haven't taken a class that's so important for my area of interest by the time I put in my application. Is this something that will have a big negative effect on my application (for a masters program)?

My GPA will potentially be a 4.0, I have research experience, and I'll have great letters of recommendation, so those aren't an issue. I'm just concerned about how detrimental not taking this class early enough will be. I will take it before I graduate, just possibly not before applying to grad schools.
 
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  • #2
I am neither a EE nor an Admissions officer, so take my response for what it's worth. Here's what I'd be looking for: a GPA of 3.6 or higher; 3 or 4 courses in calculus; 3 courses in basic Physics (mechanics, electricity/magnetism , and waves); basic electric circuit science; and good grades in advanced EE topics in your junior and senior years. Surely there are other senior year courses besides electromagnetic that you will have not yet taken until your final semester, and with a 4. 0 GPA, I'd assume you would do well in those final semester courses provided that your good grades in courses already taken were relevant courses and not just 'gut 'courses. Research would be a plus. Your admission essay would be important if required. And perhaps most important of all would be the interview. If you come across as a know-it-all, I don't want you. Best of Luck!
 

Related to Will this hurt my graduate admissions chances?

What is the most important factor in graduate admissions?

The most important factor in graduate admissions is typically the applicant's academic record, including undergraduate grades and any previous graduate coursework. Other factors that may be considered include standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, research experience, and personal statements.

How much do standardized test scores matter in graduate admissions?

Standardized test scores, such as the GRE or GMAT, are often used as one measure of an applicant's academic potential, but they are not the only factor. Admissions committees also consider other aspects of an applicant's profile, such as their academic record, research experience, and personal qualities.

Will a low GPA automatically disqualify me from graduate admissions?

A low GPA may be a concern for some graduate programs, but it does not necessarily disqualify an applicant. Admissions committees may also consider other factors, such as letters of recommendation, research experience, and personal statements, when evaluating an applicant's potential for success in graduate school.

Do I need to have research experience to be admitted to a graduate program?

Research experience can be an important factor in graduate admissions, particularly for research-focused programs. However, it is not always required. Some programs may place more emphasis on other factors, such as academic record and personal qualities.

How can I improve my chances of being admitted to a graduate program?

To improve your chances of being admitted to a graduate program, it is important to have a strong academic record, relevant research experience, and strong letters of recommendation. It can also be beneficial to thoroughly research the program and tailor your personal statement to highlight your fit with the program's objectives and strengths.

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