Dakota State University MSA vs Indiana University MSDS

Discussion in 'General Distance Learning Discussions' started by JFer1980, Mar 31, 2017.

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  1. JFer1980

    JFer1980 New Member

    Greetings,

    I started the MS Analytics program at Dakota State University this Spring, and I'm very happy with it. The teachers are helpful and supportive, the curriculum is challenging but manageable, and overall I'm glad I stuck with my gut and chose this program over the MBA offers I received.

    Recently however, I found out I was also accepted into the MS Data Science program at Indiana University in the Fall. Admittedly, I wasn't expecting this turn of events, but now that the opportunity has presented itself, I can't decide whether or not I want to stay at DSU or take the leap and become a Hoosier.

    The tuition difference isn't too big of a factor, and I'm able to transfer up to 9 credits taken at DSU into the program at IU. The reasons why I'd want to stay at DSU is that if I can potentially finish sooner if I stay put. Also, I'm already familiar with the format and starting to build relationships with the professors and my advisor.

    On the flip-side, Indiana is a much more recognized brand, and completing my graduate program there will give me full access to their academic resources and alumni networks. The thought of such a missed opportunity does weigh on me. Also, from what I can tell, the curriculum at Indiana delves much deeper into data science than DSU.

    I plan to use this degree to help me move advance in my career as a business analyst, so in my eyes, either choice is a good choice. I do have aspirations to pursue a graduate business degree after this, so the fact that I can potentially finish the DSU program does help tip the scales in their favor. However, I do admire the prestige and reputation of Indiana.

    Indiana needs my reply by 5/1. I'm giving myself till 4/15 to make a decision.

    Please comment if you'd like to weigh in.

    Cheers!

    JFer1980
     
  2. TEKMAN

    TEKMAN Semper Fi!

    After reading your post, I would recommend transferring to Indiana University because of its reputation and alumni network. What you are learning now is not necessary forever; however, a strong alumni network and reputation of the school will get your further.

    If you look at most of many successful people, they do not collect many different degrees from the less well-known school. They usually earn a degree from the top schools and work for their experiences.
     
  3. JFer1980

    JFer1980 New Member

    Thanks for the advice! It was quite helpful and insightful. I weighed all my options and decided to go through with Indiana. At the end of the day, I personally needed to see if the grass we really greener in Hoosier land. The silver lining is, if I leave DSU for IU and realize that I absolutely hate IU, I have the option of returning to DSU and pick up where I left off.
     

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