<p>ClassicRockerDad, That was very enlightening to me. I had wondered about the difference between the lac engineering programs (which are often in general engineering) and the ones at universities (where you can focus). To be honest, I figured that outside MIT/ CalTech/ Cornell level schools, there wasn’t even that big a difference between programs as long as they were accredited. </p>
<p>You’re right: he doesn’t necessarily want to be a music teacher. He would love to be a classical musician or a mechanical engineer. Since one is such a difficult career choice and the other is so practical, it might beg the question as to why I am actually encouraging music. Honestly, I think it was because 1- he prefers a small school (and I figured the intro engineering classes would be smaller but that may not always be the case) and 2- financial aid. I figured if he had the basics for engineering (math, science), he could eventually commute to a state school for grad school (or, if need be, a 2nd undergrad) in engineering. Since we have no really good music school nearby, I figured it might be easier to focus getting the $ to finance the music and then just do the engineering at the tail end. (Do you think a state school is adequate?) A 3+2 program basically does the same thing but it does add to the question of whether or not the school gives financial aid for the 5th year. I will definitely look into your suggestions.</p>