<p>As for mechE, compared to other schools, it is heavily theoretical with only like 2 lab classes over the entire undergrad career. Because of this, it is comparatively very difficult to find related employment right after getting your BS–you would have to prove that you’ve done stuff in the real world.</p>
<p>I don’t know specifically what your son’s career plans are, but ucla engineering undergrad (in general) is fantastic for preparing for grad school, but only mediocre in regard to gaining employment immediately after a BS. The one exception is CS (or perhaps EECE as well). That degree is a real testament of your worth and with it, one should face no trouble at all getting a job.</p>