AM Harvard Stats vs. MS Chicago Stats

[StatMaster2016]

Hi everyone,

I have been accepted by both the Harvard and Chicago master's in statistics programs (gratefully). Looks like costs are going to be similar and I do not have a preference for either geographically. I am wondering if anyone has experience or has heard of others' experiences with either of these schools/programs that he or she would be willing to share. Any advice regarding this decision and the programs would be welcomed. Thank you in advance!
 

Note: I am not planning on doing my PhD in statistics. 

Edited February 20, 2016 by StatMaster2016

[Tigertiger1993]

If you are not planning on doing PhD, I would say Harvard is a better choice.

[StatMaster2016]

Hi Tigertiger,

Thank you for the response!

Why do you say that? Is it the brand name or is there something about the programs specifically?

[SLIU1245]

Hi StatMaster2016!

I was surprised to see that you have got the admissions decisions so early. Do you mind if I ask for your profile/statistics? I am a junior, and I am planning to apply this upcoming fall to Berkeley and Harvard. I would appreciate any information or recommendation.

Thanks!

[localfdr]

Congratulations! I guess you cannot go wrong with either choice. From a purely academic point of view, I think most people would consider Chicago to have the stronger and more diverse Statistics department and for a PhD I would definitely go with Chicago (unless there was a particular faculty member I would like to work with at Harvard - as always). For a Master's degree, things are more subtle: Again from a purely academic point of view, I would choose Chicago, but connections and the name also matter a lot. I don't have any information regarding that and it might be advisable to ask people in the field and part of the world which you want to join later.

Edited February 25, 2016 by localfdr

[StatMaster2016]

Thank you for the congrats!

Your point of view is consistent with what I've gathered from reading through the program sites and talking to people. Always nice to have that information corroborated though. Thank you for your help!

[Residuals]

If you want to go for a PhD in statistics, then Chicago's masters program is better preparation. The curriculum provides a better foundation in terms of theory and span than Harvard's. However, if you are not interested in a PhD, then I would do Harvard. Harvard has strong connections for placing students in industry ranging from public policy to biostatistics.

[StatMaster2016]

Thanks for the reply! Your advice is appreciated.