There are some benefits to 3/2 engineering programs:
You can graduate in 5 years with 2 undergraduate degrees.
For students who have interests outside of engineering, it gives them time to pursue those.
Taking the basic math and sciences courses at a LAC allows more one-on-one time with faculty.
Some students do better in a small college.
…
I can’t think of any reason why this wouldn’t be a perfectly good path for some students. Some students who start the 3/2 path may change their minds, but what’s the drop out rate from engineering programs at universities; other colleges? I’ve read several comments on this site in opposition to 3/2 programs, but not one backed up with solid data. How many students who begin the program drop out before transferring from the LAC? How many drop out after transferring? Is there any followup outcomes data? There is no data.
Personally, if I were seriously considering such a program, I would call as many colleges/universities as I had energy for and ask for information about the graduation rate and outcomes data of there engineering students who transferred from 3/2 and pre-engineering at LACs. I’d contact major companies and ask what they’re looking for in new hires and what their opinion is of such programs, etc.
3/2 programs exist for a reason. Why? Just Marketing for struggling LACs?
I suspect they could be a good option for certain kinds of students. And why not?