CMU MISM-BIDA vs. Columbia Data Science vs. UT Austin Business Analytics

[Mikanette]

Hello - I'm going back to grad school to get a solid background in data analytics and would appreciate your advice on what school to choose. The three programs I applied to, and got accepted in, are:

• UT Austin McCombs - MS in Business Analytics: Growing program, great industry sponsorships, shorter program (year vs. 1.5 years) but seems more like a 5th year undergrad than a program for experienced people (I have 3 years). About 25% scholarship.
• Columbia Fu Foundation - Data Science: Very technical program with a statistics focus (which is what I need - I'm a info science undergrad), great brand recognition, but a really new program (first flight graduated this winter). No scholarship.
• Carnegie Mellon Heinz - Master in Information Systems Management - Business intelligence & Data Analytics (MISM:BIDA): Well established, more management focused and not as technical as Columbia, but the new BIDA track adds more hands-on courses. 60% scholarship.

In terms of cost, I would choose CMU (however, my company will reimburse me after I return so cost is not the issue). From your research and experience, is the brand name recognition of Columbia and a more technical 'Data Science' degree worth turning down CMU?

Appreciate the advice!

 

[Carolinesupercool]

When did you hear back from CMU BIDA? I am still waiting for the decision.

[Mikanette]

I heard back on Friday, March 11th. Website said that decisions should be out by the 15th if you submitted on time - when did you submit?

[Carolinesupercool]

I submitted the day before the deadline. And i received an email this Monday saying I will be notified by mar 30. But I am much worried that i'm going to be rej.