take extra course to raise GPA?

[o_0]

I'm an electrical engineering grad student*, I expect to earn MS this semester and if I find a job will probably just take it. Unfortunately, my GPA is quite close to the cutoff for most workplaces (3.255)** so I'm considering taking what this school calls a "research problems course" for the sole purpose of shoring up my GPA a bit. I've calculated that it will make a difference of 0.1 GPA point. Problem is, it's at least $1k extra, probably more, so is it worth it? Or should I just count on doing well in the 2 classroom courses I'm taking? Clearly that didn't happen in the past. That course is basically just getting a grade for labwork, doesn't count toward the degree but helps GPA.  I'm taking the thesis course, but it has no effect on GPA.

 

*(This may or may not affect the answer, but I also have a biology degree, chemistry background, and currently work in a biomedical engineering lab. Lots of different research experiences, but only 2 conferences, 1 conference paper.)

**Even last semester, when my GPA was higher, recruiters didn't seem too impressed.

[Usmivka]

I think the same advice applies here as would apply to an undergrad in the same situation--nobody really cares about GPA once you pass whatever cutoff. I'm amazed that any employers even have such a thing or care once you have your degree. It seems clear to me that the issue here is the lack of tangible research output, so your time would be best spent writing up/presenting your research, and evidencing that you are in fact someone who can do high level, at least semi self-directed work within your field and broadcast the results.

Edited January 18, 2013 by Usmivka

[o_0]

Another detail: A lot of my applications are to Sandia, and their management is known for having a bit of a GPA obsession, as per the reviews on glassdoor. So if anyone knows about that specific case please comment.  

 

[edit] 

@Usmivka: in other words I shouldn't bother? OK thanks for your help. Have a nice weekend.

Edited January 18, 2013 by o_0

[Usmivka]

Another detail: A lot of my applications are to Sandia, and their management is known for having a bit of a GPA obsession, as per the reviews on glassdoor. So if anyone knows about that specific case please comment.  

 

[edit] 

@Usmivka: in other words I shouldn't bother? OK thanks for your help. Have a nice weekend.

Right, I don't think the time for the course is worth the effort and expense on your part. I think your time would go further towards getting you the job you want if you spent it writing up a paper. I'm sorry Sandia has that particular fetish, it seems really silly--who cares how you do in classes if you are doing good research? Now as an alternative that gives you the best of both worlds, can you get graded research credits? ie instead of signing up for a P/F credit, ask for a grade on your research work? You could then spend the time on research and writing, bump your grade a little, and show that somebody thinks you are doing 'A' research.

 

EDIT: And you too! Sometimes I forget about weekends, but this one is too pretty to ignore.

Edited January 18, 2013 by Usmivka

[o_0]

Thesis is only p/f. I have to take it. The graded research course is separate. Each course is 3 hours, with an obligation of 10 work hours/week. But I easily spend 20 hours/week on this project anyway. The main deterrent is the expense, for 0.1 point.

Edited January 18, 2013 by o_0

[Usmivka]

Will the folks at Sandia be impressed by a 3.4 vs a 3.3? a 3.5? You may have to ask someone point blank about what this number is. Where do they start paying attention? If it is a threshold you can meet, and it gets you a better paying job at the place you want, then $1000 is a fine amount. But if that scenario isn't really likely, I assume your bank account needs the cash more.

 

Anyone else out there want to reply to this one?