Hi everyone,

I need some advice. I have received two offers from the following programs: Warwick, Msc in Statisitics, Edinburgh Msc in Statisitics and OR.

My goal is to pursue a PhD afterwards, in the U.K. or back at home (I am from Switzerland).

I understand the Warwick has a better statistic department, but Edinburgh has a better overall ranking. What program would maximize my chance of finding a "good" PhD program? And what program would be the best for the plan B, which is finding a decent job, probably in the finance industry.

What do you guys think?

Thanks in advance for you help.

PS: I also received an offer from Lancaster and Kent, but I assumed these two are less interesting in that regard.

What do you mean by 'less interesting'?

I am under the impression that Lancaster has quite a big stats department - don't know how it compares with the other two though.

I would probably place department standing as more important than overall university standing - all of those institutions are well established. Also factor in quality of life or whatever other things matter to you.

I meant in term of general ranking.

I guess my general question is: what should be favoured, general ranking or department ranking. Lancaster is supposed to be behind on both so there was no real question for me.

Concerning the "quality of living", as it is for a short period of time in my life, it is not an important factor for me. It might, however, be a tie breaker.

I'd definitely go for department ranking over the general ranking.

I agree with HazyJane and although it may only be a short period of time you should enjoy moments like these, they're all great institutions and providing you do well I doubt it will make a huge difference on whether you are accepted for a PhD.

I consider the department ranking more important too.
However, bare in mind that the Warwick's statistics department is separate from the mathematics department. So, I am not sure whether the rankings you see on the internet refer to the statistics department too or not. You could spent some time to search for it.
Also, as far as I know, Warwick is located in a place where you do not have many after-university things to do ( I have friends there. it is not my personal experience )