Biostatistics: UNC PhD vs. Funded Umich MS

[DBDR2672]

Hi everyone, I hope you're doing well! 

So I am a current senior undergrad, applying for PhD programs for Biostatistics for next fall. I was very excited to have been accepted to UNC's Department of Biostatistics, with a full package of 5 years of funding! 

I wasn't able to get into Michigan's PhD program, but was offered a funded fast-track masters (and I heard that usually any student that wants to move onto the PhD is able to do so).

I am leaning toward Michigan because my current interest lies in Statistical Genetics (and I have heard Michigan's statistical genetics program is pretty much top in the nation) and because of some other personal reasons. However, I am set on wanting to pursue a PhD, and I am worried about reapplying after the Master's. 

Please let me know what you think about this dilemma, and whether or not you think taking the funded Master's offer rather than a PhD would be a harmful decision for someone who does, in fact, intend to get the PhD.

Thank you!

[Biostat_Assistant_Prof]

From what I know about UMich is that it is the general policy that you don't get into their PhD program without a masters, but the funded fast-track masters is essentially the same thing as a PhD offer when you come straight from undergrad. I had the same deal a few years ago. I didn't end up there, so maybe some others can chime in, but what I was told was basically that if you pass your first year qualifying exams, it's smooth sailing into the PhD program (i.e. everyone that wants to continue with the PhD after this point will be accepted to do so)

 

With that said, in general, I think both are equally reputable. If absolutely forced to rank one over the other, I have the inclination to give a slight edge to Michigan, but I doubt I could give a convincing argument as to why - it's just my gut feeling about it. I think if stat genetics, genomics, etc. are your interest, UMich would be the better choice. If more clinical oriented statistical methodology (e.g. clinical trial methods) are your interest, UNC is the better place. 

 

 

 

Edited March 28, 2016 by Biostat_student_22

[ensemble]

I don't have much to add, except to say that I am in a similar situation. The funded fast-track masters does not seem that different from being a pre-quals PhD student, from what I've heard. Michigan seems like a very attractive place if you want to do statistical genetics. 

[rack_attack124]

I went to UNC undergrad so I would say go to UNC. I mean it's really up to you if you want to apply to PhD programs again next year. UNC and UMich are both awesome schools so congratulations!

 

[PublicHealthLady]

I went to UM for biostatistics Masters. And in lighter words it is TOUGH!!!! Make sure if you go to that program you know your stuff. They will teach u a lot too but you have to come in with a lot. Personally it was not exactly what I wanted so after the first year I switched to Epidemiology. But I have a lot of friends still in biostats and a few that went on to pursue their PhD there. They made it very easy for those who wanted to get a job and those who wanted to pursue more education. Not one single person from the 2013 class was left without options. UM is ranked the number 1 biostatistics program in the country (or at least that is what they told me in like 5 different classes!)

I don't know much about UNCs program. 

 

[cyberwulf]

6 hours ago, PublicHealthLady said:

UM is ranked the number 1 biostatistics program in the country (or at least that is what they told me in like 5 different classes!)

I don't know whether people there actually believe that, or are just being disingenuous, but it's hard to see how you could rank Michigan ahead of Harvard, Hopkins, and Washington.