3.15 GPA -- Engineering schools within reason?

[fouriertransform10]

Hi, so I've recently decided that I want to apply for graduate school (PhD) for Electrical Engineering, with a particular focus on photonics, biophotonics, and optics.  I am very committed to applying for and pursuing a PhD, however I am quite concerned about where I stand for admission, especially in the competitive field of engineering.  I currently have a 3.15 UGPA (combination degree in Electrical Engineering and Physics), and am beginning to feel the nerves of applying, as I fear that my grades may keep me from being admitted to all of the programs I apply to.  For some context, let me tell you a little about my academic career so far:

3.15 UGPA, top 40 school with a strong engineering program, 3.4/3.6 during my last two semesters; 8 months and counting of biophotonics research

I am well aware that it is unlikely that I will get into a top 10-20 school, so I am looking for schools in the top 30-60 range.

So far, I have compiled a list of schools I am interested in:

Boston University (PhD, Electrical Engineering), RPI (PhD, Electrical Engineering), University of Rochester (PhD, Electrical Engineering/PhD, Optics), UC Davis (PhD, Electrical Engineering), Case Western (PhD, Electrical Engineering), Lehigh University (PhD, Electrical Engineering), Tufts University (PhD, Electrical Engineering/PhD Bioengineering), Northeastern University (PhD, Electrical Engineering), UIUC (PhD, Electrical Engineering). 

Are any of these schools reasonable, given my resume?  Should I aim lower/higher?  Any recommendations?

Thanks!

 

 

 

 

 

[Edotdl]

I don't have any experience at the schools you listed, but I feel like your research experience is on the shorter end, given that you are applying for PhD programs and need to offset your GPA. Of course, quality>quantity but 8 months really isn't that long. Did you have work experience through an internship or something before too? For an engineering program that could help.

You'll also likely need 3 LORs, have you thought about who will be writing them? It's best to have all 3 come from research advisors.

Edited August 15, 2016 by Edotdl