CMU-MCDS vs Gatech MS Computer Science

[HodorHodor]

Hey guys, currently sitting on admits from CMU-MCDS (formerly MSIT-VLIS) and Gatech MSCS. Finding it tough to decide between the 2 as both are top tier colleges. CMU may have the better CS department but MCDS is a professional Masters course while the Gatech Masters is a thesis based Masters. Does the "professional" tag matter in any way for job prospects or in case I decide to do a PhD later? If you were in my place what would you do?

[Anthony Tomasic]

Although it isn't documented well on the website, a thesis can be submitted as part of the MCDS degree program. In our experience the tag has no relevance. What matters is your research experience for a PhD application. There are several ways to get involved in research with the MCDS program - as part of a Capstone course, or with independent study courses, or via projects that are part of regular classes.