[onewhippedpuppy]

Originally Posted by nostatic

There are very few 4 year degrees that are a "waste of time" unless the student makes them such. Some of the most successful people I know have degrees in "useless" areas such as english and philosophy. What they got in college was breadth of knowledge and critical thinking skills. Engineering and science is not the only way to get that - but some people think that is the case.

If someone has always wanted to be an engineer, and only wants to be an engineer, then by all means, get an undergraduate engineering degree and be happy (or not). But if someone is interesting in "engineering" (and many don't even know what it entails) along with other things (the OP mentioned psych I believe), then I think getting a broader degree in physics or math or chemistry is a better idea. That does not shut them out from becoming an engineer.

I agree with your intent, but a few counterpoints. For the typical grad that goes to college and emerges into the world to start a career, there are a number of worthless degrees. An english degree will cost you the same dollar amount as an accounting degree, but you'll find much greener career pastures with the latter. Obviously there is more to life than money, but emerging from college to a high-demand career with good starting pay is a HUGE bonus.

If you want to be an engineer but don't get an engineering degree, you'll be at a huge disadvantage. Other industries may differ, but that is certainly the case in the local aerospace industry.