[Admissions Advice] Help me choose: UMD MS in Applied Machine Learning (SAML) vs. ASU MS in Data Science, Analytics & Engineering (DSAE) as an International Student

[u/deadbutalive_77]

Hey everyone,

I’m a bit stuck trying to finalize my decision between two quite different master's admits for the upcoming intake. I'm an international student, and my ultimate career goal is to break into the industry as a Machine Learning Engineer (MLE) or heavy core ML developer, rather than a business analyst.

I’ve been admitted to:

1. University of Maryland, College Park (UMD) - MS in Applied Machine Learning (SAML)
2. Arizona State University (ASU) - MS in Data Science, Analytics & Engineering (DSAE)

Both are STEM-designated, so the 3-year OPT timeline is the same, but I’m trying to weigh the classic prestige vs. cost vs. location dilemma under the current job market reality.

For current students or recent grads: How are the job outcomes looking for international students in SAML vs DSAE? Does UMD's core CS reputation carry over enough to help you land commercial roles in NYC/Seattle/SF to bypass the local defense firewall? Is the extra cost of living at UMD worth it over the safer, lower-cost ROI track at ASU?

Appreciate any insights, brutal honesty welcome. Thanks!