Undergraduate GPA does not predict success in PhD programs for cohorts of MS students at two minority-serving institutions.

ABSTRACT: Master of Science (MS) research training programs funded by organizations such as the NIH, the NSF as well as private corporations represent the potential for significant interventions for student success, especially for marginalized or underrepresented and first-generation students, to bridge the gap between undergraduate studies and doctoral programs. These students often face serious challenges during their undergraduate years, such as navigating unfamiliar academic systems, balancing demanding coursework with work responsibilities, and fulfilling family obligations. These and other systemic pressures can impede their academic progress and opportunities for research experience. We therefore asked how their undergraduate GPA impacted success in the PhD in terms of (i) acceptance, (ii) co

SUBMITTER: Fuse M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12863499 | biostudies-literature | 2026

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature