MSc Choice based on University rankings and course flexibility
Hi everyone,
I’m starting an MSc in Statistics this September, at either the University of Sheffield or the University of Strathclyde.
Sheffield is ranked in the top 10 in the UK and 91st in the world, while Strathclyde is in the top 30 in the UK (30th) and 375th globally.
Both universities offer the modules I need. However, I have two main concerns:
1. Ranking: Does Sheffield’s Russell Group status and top 10 ranking make a significant difference compared to Strathclyde’s top 30 position? It seems Sheffield has a stronger reputation, but I’m wondering how much of an impact that would have percentage-wise. (For context, I already have a job, so this MSc is more to build on my statistics skills. My primary goal isn’t necessarily securing a new job, but it will, of course, enhance my CV for future research or career opportunities.)
2. Course difficulty: Strathclyde offers a much more flexible, online-only, part-time course, with all assessments based on coursework. Sheffield also offers part-time distance learning, but most modules require attendance for written exams, which make up a large portion of the overall grade. I find coursework deadlines more manageable, as they allow for trial and error, spreading the grade across a whole project rather than depending on one exam paper covering a range of topics.
I’m torn between these two options. In short, Strathclyde would be easier in terms of workload, allowing me to potentially achieve a better overall grade. However, Sheffield offers the reputation, networking opportunities, and stronger CV value for future career prospects.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
I’m starting an MSc in Statistics this September, at either the University of Sheffield or the University of Strathclyde.
Sheffield is ranked in the top 10 in the UK and 91st in the world, while Strathclyde is in the top 30 in the UK (30th) and 375th globally.
Both universities offer the modules I need. However, I have two main concerns:
1. Ranking: Does Sheffield’s Russell Group status and top 10 ranking make a significant difference compared to Strathclyde’s top 30 position? It seems Sheffield has a stronger reputation, but I’m wondering how much of an impact that would have percentage-wise. (For context, I already have a job, so this MSc is more to build on my statistics skills. My primary goal isn’t necessarily securing a new job, but it will, of course, enhance my CV for future research or career opportunities.)
2. Course difficulty: Strathclyde offers a much more flexible, online-only, part-time course, with all assessments based on coursework. Sheffield also offers part-time distance learning, but most modules require attendance for written exams, which make up a large portion of the overall grade. I find coursework deadlines more manageable, as they allow for trial and error, spreading the grade across a whole project rather than depending on one exam paper covering a range of topics.
I’m torn between these two options. In short, Strathclyde would be easier in terms of workload, allowing me to potentially achieve a better overall grade. However, Sheffield offers the reputation, networking opportunities, and stronger CV value for future career prospects.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
Quick Reply
Related discussions
- MSc real estate offers from Henley, Cass(Bayes) and Manchester
- Southampton or Sheffield
- University of Glasgow: Current Student Insights
- Reading or Aston for business management
- Online MSc in Computer Science with Data Science, Sunderland
- Online Masters in Computer Science - University of Keele
- Public Policy & International Development: LSe or SOAS?
- MSc Psychology (Conversion/Online Learning)
- MSc vs MSci vs MRes in Biomedicine
- Biological Science Course Comparisons
- Arden University vs University of Essex for psychology degree
- Bayes vs Manchester vs Nottingham vs Cranfield MSc in Finance- International student
- HEC MSc in Marketing vs LSE GMiM - confused which to choose
- Essex vs Portsmouth Marine Biology
- MSc in Computer Science & AI to Complement a 3D Animation Background
- QMUL vs Brunel - Msc Finance & Investment
- City University of London 2023 Applicants Thread
- BPS Psychology Bachelor's and BPS Forensic Psychology Masters
- Bradford or Cardiff metro (Ai, computer science and Robotics)
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering Firm and Insurance Choice
Latest
Trending
Last reply 5 days ago
University of Edinburgh 2025-26 Postgraduate ApplicantsLast reply 2 weeks ago
Choosing between Imperial and Cambridge for Data ScienceLast reply 2 weeks ago
Anyone got invited to the Cambridge PhD interview for Applied Mathematics?Last reply 3 weeks ago
MSc Computer Science (conversion course) 2025-2026Last reply 3 weeks ago
MPhil in Politics and International Studies Cambridge Applicants Thread 2025Last reply 2 months ago
The University of Manchester Supervisor-led MRC DTPLast reply 2 months ago
University of Oxford DPhil Healthcare Data Science October 2025