Stats MS via Distance Learning at Iowa State

Hi all,

I know there has been some discussion over the schools that offer a full MS in Statistics via Distance Learning. I was wondering if anyone here had any firsthand experience with the program at Iowa State.

From the research I have done about the program, it seems like the Statistics program at Iowa State is well regarded, appearing in the top 15-20 in different rankings:

Best Statistics Programs | Top Statistics Schools | US News Best Graduate Schools

Ranking of Statistics and Probability Graduate Schools — PhDs.org Graduate School Guide

It also seems to be the most affordable option (~$4000/semester), based on the analysis done in this thread:

http://www.degreeinfo.com/general-distance-learning-discussions/39767-how-select-masters-statistics-program.html

I'm leaning towards applying for this program after I take Linear Algebra in the upcoming Spring, but was hoping to hear from others that have undertaken a similar path. Part of this decision is based on the recent news that Colorado State is no longer taking new applicants to their Stats MS program but rather are pushing people to the less rigorous Applied States program.

 

If you're looking at the employment potential I think you've dialed into a very positive choice. I am also weighing these grad-stats options but have yet to decide if for me it's worth the time/effort. If you're sure you want the degree, have the time/money, etc. then I'd say you've made a good choice.

 

Employment Potential

I'm definitely looking at employment potential. I currently work as analyst for a .com company but I am somewhat limited if I want to advance. If I want to open myself up to more opportunities within my company and other companies, a MS in Statistics is basically required. Without my specific knowledge of my industry that I have accumulated over the last 3-4 years, I wouldn't be useful since I don't have the educational background.

So basically, I want to continue my growth in Mathematics and specifically Statistics so that can I open myself up to to more senior analyst roles with other companies that aren't necessarily in the same line of business of which I currently have knowledge in now.

I also like the idea of studying Statistics more because I've always been a "Stats" guy. I just decided in undergrad I liked history and writing better and I didn't want to bother going through all the Calculus that seemed so hard. Only in the past few years as I started working through Calculus (one night class at a time) I realized that Stats is what I like the most.

Money is somewhat of an issue but I do have up to $7,000/year in tuition reimbursement so I'd rather choose the best program than just the cheapest.

In any case, thanks for your response, Kizmet. I'd be interested to hear more about your background/interests as well since you are thinking of pursuing an MS in Stats from the same programs. Also hopefully some others chime in on their experience with Iowa State.