Taking class as non-degree seeking student

[LynnDot]

Quick background:

 

Trying to get into an MPH program

Majoring in an animal science program, graduating this fall

GPA: Depends on how this semester goes. I had a rough sophomore year (no excuses, too much partying, didn't know how to study, ochem butchered my GPA as a result)...if I get at least a 3.7 this semester I will be back over a 3.0 - anything short of that and I'll be graduating with a 2.9

 

The programs I'm looking at all have 3.0 minimums. If I can't pull of a 3.7 this semester and I graduate a little below a 3.0, I'm worried I won't get in anywhere.

 

One of the schools I'm trying to get into offers courses as a non-degree seeking student. The only "requirements" are you have a bachelors, so I should be able to take them no matter what.

 

So my question is, will this make a difference to grad school admissions? Are grad schools more likely to accept applicants who have taken classes as a non-degree student? I was just wondering if anyone here had experience with taking graduate classes before applying and if it made a difference.

 

As for other parts of my application, I've been doing student research for about two years now, have received grant money for projects, etc - I feel like my "work experience" side of my application is pretty solid. And I have two really good references ready to back me up...and my GRE scores are above the averages for most of the schools I'm looking at. So really I'm just worried about my grades. I feel like some schools will just flat out ignore my application if I have a 2.9? Or at least that's how it seems. 

Edited September 8, 2013 by LynnDot

[Loric]

Umm.. I don't know..?

 

The worst case scenario is that you apply and they say "no."

 

You then begin asking why/how/etc... Show a dedication to the field and ask what other options you may have for future admission. Ask if you can get in by taking those classes. Talk to the professors involved.

 

Until you get rejected you're just thinking negatively. Even then, you just need to probe, ask, see what they say. People talk about this stuff like it's all set in stone and an immovable object. It's not. Talk to people, see who will help you out, etc.. There's always another answer.

Edited September 8, 2013 by Loric