Cornell MPS vs Umich MS Applied Stats

[zxy2018]

I got accepted to these two programs but found it so hard to decide which program to attend. I am an international student, and I want to get a job in the US after the graduation. I am currently a senior student at a TOP 40 US college double majoring in Maths and Econ.

Umich's applied stats seems better from the academic's perspective, but I cannot find any job placement statistics of the students of this program. I am not sure if this program is helpful for getting jobs. Cornell MPS is more career-oriented, but it is a one year program, which is a huge disadvantage for international students to find jobs. While the curriculum involves the use of a lot of programming, which is attractive to me since I don't have any knowledge of this (except for R). I want to start a career in data science (ideal job positions: data analyst/business analyst/data scientist), or probably consulting. Is there any suggestion for me?? I really appreciate any advice or comments!!

[bayessays]

I think the MS will be viewed better than the MPS by data science employers, being a two year degree.

[zxy2018]

31 minutes ago, bayessays said:

I think the MS will be viewed better than the MPS by data science employers, being a two year degree.

I do agree! But I am concerned about the job opportunities provided to Umich ms students, comparing to Cornell's IVY reputation. Do you think Cornell's career resources and reputation will offset the disadvantage of being a one-year MPS degree? or do the employers care more about the reputation of the program itself?

Edited April 16, 2018 by zxy2018

[bayessays]

Most people aren't going to find careers through their career department, and Michigan has a great statistics department with a better reputation than Cornell. That being said, I've heard that some jobs internationally (China, basically) prefer Ivy League grads.  In the US, nobody will care.

[bayessays]

That being said, the MPS placements do look pretty impressive and it saves you a year of schooling. For me personally, if I were looking for a job afterwards, saving a year would be a big advantage.  You also have a capstone project which will probably help you land a job. 

 

Honestly, work hard and I doubt you would be held back by either option.