Masters Programs in Canada (or the US) - the rundown?

[magsters]

I've looked up a few programs briefly but all the GPA cutoffs, admission guidelines and things are a little overwhelming all at once. 

 

I was wondering if any of you might have some advice for me regarding what sort of grad program I should be looking at and what sort of school would be good for that. 

 

I'm a fourth year undergrad at UBC. I double major so I'll be staying an extra year to fulfill course requirements. My first three years were horrible - I had a cumulative GPA of 2.7, but I'm looking at a GPA of 3.9 for my fourth year and around the same for my fifth (full course loads still). I've always gotten decent marks for my classes in PoliSci, except for one class. I have never failed a class, but I have withdrawn from one class not related to my major. I can probably get some decent recommendations. 

 

Anyway, I know I'm probably not competitive enough for better programs, but I want to get into a Masters program. I don't want a doctorate - I'm getting the masters to better my chances for public service work. I do enjoy political science and I also have an idea of what I am interested in. Do you guys have any idea what sort of programs I should be looking at? Anything I should do to better my chances? Any advice would be appreciated! 

I would prefer to get a masters in Canada, but the US is okay too... 

[jesuscares]

@mgmasters. First and foremost do not be too despondent about this. Graduate programs in Canada tend to evaluate your candidacy by looking at the academic performance in the last two years for your undergraduate work. Once your GPA in those final two years equated to a minimum of a B or even better a B+ you should be considered. Also you have to remember that there other components to the application i.e LOR's, statement of interest, resume) that you can use as a collateral to enhance your chances to getting admitted. For US programs on the other hand, they normally will look at the entire body of undergraduate work. Therefore a cumulative GPA of 2.7 GPA may be slightly hard to gloss over. However, I cannot state enough the pertinence of ensuring that the strength of your desire and intention to pursue graduate study must be reflected in your application. Also if you are up for the wait, you should consider getting some entry level work experience. It doesn't hurt and it gives your application that extra UMPH!