UW vs. Umich Biostats | Where to go?

[ProteomeEcho]

Hi all!!

I am seeking suggestions on where to go for the master program. I was admitted by MS in biostatistics in UW-Seattle (Capstone track) and Umichigan, but still cannot make a decision by far and I am now getting worried since 4.15 is approaching.

My brief background: double major in genetics and statistics (but I took much more courses in genetics). I applied for MS program in order to get more rigorous theoretical training in mathematics and statistics, and my current thought is to continue in a PhD program after graduation if possible.

My current thoughts about two schools are:

UW-Seattle

Pros:

• top biostats program and has diverse research projects
• relatively low tuition ($55k) for 18 months
• good location for seeking for jobs
• small class (probably 10-20 ppl)                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        

Cons:

• fixed schedule (three tracks: ds/stat gen/modelling) 
• less theoretical compared to the thesis program 
• very new program and do not have any graduate stats (this year is the second year of the program)

Umich

Pros:

• super strong in statistical genetics with a huge group of faculty working on it 
• flexible schedule (12 credit electives)
• high acceptance rate for internal transfer to PhD program

Cons:

• high tuition ($~85k) for two years, a small chance to find TA/RA to cover some in 2nd year
• large size of class > 40 ppl
• less tolerance to snow days even though I have spent 4 years in similar condition already

I think my concerns mainly come from uncertainty how each school prepares and benefits me getting into a PhD program later. For internal transfer, Umich definitely has a higher chance (13-15/ 30+ applicants) compared to UW (0-2 ppl). I assume the possibility to get successful transfer in UW close to 0 right now and really have no idea what schools their graduates could enter for a PhD degree due to the lack of information. Meanwhile, I think my background matches very well with stat gene and Umich will definitely be a good choice in that field, UW not bad either though. However, I have not done any biostatistics relevant research yet so I am really not sure if I want to go for stat gene in the future. Last, I do vote for rain instead of snow in terms of weather. lol

I do appreciate anyone can help and gives some suggestions! 

Edited April 12, 2020 by ProteomeEcho
incorrect alignment

[BioStatKid]

How did you make your decision? Are you happy with where you are right now?