Biochemistry: Masters vs PhD

[meow_nicole]

I'm sure you've all heard this before, but I have a low undergraduate GPA (2.82) from a recognized University, and I'm afraid I wont get into a PhD program, so I'm applying to Masters programs that I *still* might not get into. 

 

I have 5 years of lab experience (4 years of academic, and 1 year of industry) and I'm also co-author on a publication from my undergraduate career. 

 

Long story short, I'm not the best at taking tests under pressure, but I absolutely love research, and know what type of research I want to do. I was thinking of possibly contacting professors in person, but I wasn't sure if that would help.

 

I'm applying to masters programs for Fall 2014, but I wont have time to take the GRE subject tests for biochemistry for the PhD programs. Should I still apply to both programs (without subject test scores), or would it look bad to be rejected from a program and apply more than once (in later cycles, with subject test scores)? 

 

Any help would be much appreciated!

[Chai_latte]

Contacting professors certainly can't hurt.  Even if it doesn't augment your chances of admission, it allows you to learn more about the projects that interest you.  It also gives you a first impression of potential PIs/advisors.  I always think it's better to put your best foot forward and to submit the strongest app that you can. 

With that said, find out if the schools *strongly prefer* the subject GRE or if they're more on-the-fence.  That will tell you a lot.

So, start contacting profs, dept. secretaries and doing your homework for each school/program.