MS in Stats vs MS in mathematics before PHD in statistics

[StatSig]

In the case that one has to pursue a master's before a PhD due to undergraduate grades that seem borderline competitive (3.5) at graduate schools in Statistics, which route is a better call? I'm tempted to think the master's in statistics, but going through the coursework requirements at many schools, it seems like there really isn't too much mathematical rigour in MS statistics programs. I understand PhD programs are far more theoretical in coursework (and possibly thesis research, if that's the direction on which one takes it), so would and MS in math be better?

[galois]

I'm curious what other people think about this as well, as I might end up in a similar case. My answer would be that it depends on the program though; specifically, if you look at the coursework for each masters program, I'm sure you'll find some that are 1) more applied 2) more theoretical and 3) evenly balanced.

[bayessays]

An super applied data analytics-type MS isn't going to help you much, but there are definitely programs where you would take Casella-Berger type theory courses, regression classes that actually use linear algebra, and advanced electives that are more mathematical. I would take that over a math MS any day. Unless you really love pure math and just want to do it for fun, it's way overkill and probably won't help much. 

[Stat Assistant Professor]

A Masters in math should be fine for admissions to most PhD programs in Statistics too (I know many people who took no stats classes prior to enrolling in Statistics PhD programs but who obtained Masters in math). Several PhD students/alumni in my department fit this description (MS in math -> PhD in Stat), including one alum who is a professor at Duke and another who is a professor at University of South Carolina.

 

But I would say only do that if you are truly interested in math. A Masters in Statistics can also be used as a stepping stone for a PhD in Statistics, but if your undergrad math background was light, you may need to take a few extra math classes in your Masters study (e.g., real analysis) to better your chances for PhD admissions.

Agreed with above posters that programs like  Masters of Applied Stats, Masters in Professional Studies of Stats, Masters in Data Analytics, or Masters in Data Science are unlikely to be helpful for PhD admissions.