What is a decent GPA for an adult/non-traditional student?

Question

I'm an adult student (28) who returned to college @ 24 to complete my bachelor's degree & change careers. I will graduate this summer with a dbl.-major B. of Science, & have been accepted to grad school in the fall. I already have an associate degree and have worked in my field (IT) for 8 years. I have supported myself the entire time I've been in school, sometimes going to school FT and working 2 jobs. My mother also passed away my first semester, so the semester after that I got straight Cs. My overall GPA will only be a 3.0 but my major GPA will be a 3.37. I've struggled a lot & haven't always gotten the best grades due to my time constraints and depression after my mother died. (She was very sick for years and we were close.)
With my combined education and work experience, plus an explanation of what caused my lower GPA, do you think it will matter to employers? Should I list both my major and my overall GPA on my resume or just my major GPA?

I hope to do better in grad school!

Answer 1

3.0 is always considered solid in most fields by most people. My overall when I graduated what 3.25 and my major was 3.8 and all my grad schools accepted me. What I would do is list both GPAs and have some of your profs write ref letters explaining your dedication and special circumstances.

Answer 2

Being an adult, you have experience and practical knowledge on your side. But, being out of school doesn't allow you the same skills of studying you had when you were fresh out of high school. Aim for a 3.5. That will show employers that you are willing to learn new skills and that you can achieve *** Laude status. But, 3.37 is quite good. Do what you can and focus on the education you get, not so much on the GPA.
List your major and if your GPA is up there, list it to. GPA demonstrates a lot to some employers. Don't include what caused your GPA to fall. That shows employers that you make excuses. Show the GPA as an achievement, not an excuse

Answer 3

Any undergrad GPA at or above 3.0 is good. No employer will think twice, just having the degree is good enough once you have relevant work experience.

Answer 4

No one will ever ask to see your undergrad grades; what employer has the time to do this for all potential employees?

They will most likely not even be interested in grad school grades, the most they might ask is "How did you do in 'this particular subject'?"

don't worry about it - just be glad you're done and on your way to grad school!