Hey there! If you’re like me, you’re torn between pursuing a Master’s in Computational Linguistics and a Master’s in Statistics. Both programs can lead to a career in AI, but which one is right for you?
I recently faced this dilemma and had to weigh the pros and cons of each option. Let me share my story and hopefully, it’ll help you make a decision that aligns with your goals.
My goals were clear: I wanted to become employable in the tough tech market, settle and work in the EU long-term, and work in machine learning/NLP/AI, ideally not just in theory. I had a B.A. in Linguistics and prior coursework in statistics and coding, which made both options appealing.
The Master’s in Computational Linguistics from the University of Stuttgart, Germany, seemed like an attractive choice. The tuition was relatively affordable at €6,000 total, and I would be able to settle and work in the EU long-term. However, I was also considering a Master’s in Statistics from NC State, USA. Although the tuition was higher at $15,000 total, I had a rollover Bachelor’s full-ride scholarship from the university that could cover most of the costs.
So, what’s the right choice? It ultimately comes down to your goals and priorities. If you want to focus on machine learning/NLP/AI and have a more affordable tuition, the Master’s in Computational Linguistics might be the way to go. However, if you’re willing to take on a bit more debt and want to broaden your skill set in statistics, the Master’s in Statistics could be the better option.
For me, the decision came down to my long-term goals and the industry I wanted to work in. I chose the Master’s in Computational Linguistics, but that’s because I wanted to focus on machine learning/NLP/AI and settle in the EU.
Ultimately, the decision is yours. Consider your goals, priorities, and the job market you want to enter. Weigh the pros and cons of each option, and choose the program that aligns with your aspirations. Good luck!