<p>I'm wondering how difficult it is to get into the engineering school(s) associated with the liberal arts college offering the dual degree program. For example, Reed College offers 3-2 Engineering with Cal Tech, Columbia, RPI. It seems to me these engineering schools are highly competitive. What are the chances a 3-2 candidate from Reed will get accepted to one of these three schools for the two years needed to complete the degree? What options are available to the candidate if he/she doesn't get in?</p>
<p>I don't know the answers to your specific qx, but something to think about: I have heard that a lot of students don't want to follow through on the 3-2 program when the time comes, because it means missing their Sr. year at the first college and leaving behind all of their friends at a time when they just don't want to.</p>
<p>I agree. Considering that you can have an undergrad degree in the hard sciences and then do a master's in engineering, why not go that route? </p>
<p>You would be paying five years of tuition, which is rough for only an undergrad degree. Consider that many engin. firms will pay your master's; alternatively, you can get grants for your grad research. Spend that fifth year getting a master's and you'll be in a better position.</p>
<p>I agree with what has been said... from what I have seen, very, very few students actually follow through... and as ariesathena said, there really is no advantage to doing it anyway... major in a hard science, and then do a masters program in engineering. Alternatively, there are a number of small LACS that actually have engineering, such as Swarthmore, Bucknell, Lafayette...</p>
<p>"I'm wondering how difficult it is to get into the engineering school(s) associated with the liberal arts college offering the dual degree program. For example, Reed College offers 3-2 Engineering with Cal Tech, Columbia, RPI. It seems to me these engineering schools are highly competitive. What are the chances a 3-2 candidate from Reed will get accepted to one of these three schools for the two years needed to complete the degree."</p>
<p>Columbia is guaranteed if you have a 3.0 GPA -- which is a pretty good deal considering how selective Columbia is. Cal Tech, however, is not guaranteed, and you will need a 3.7 GPA. I believe Duke wants a GPA of 3.3 or higher.</p>
<p>"What options are available to the candidate if he/she doesn't get in?"</p>
<p>If you fail to meet the GPA requirement for your selected school/s, you will still get a BA from the LAC -- assuming, of course, that you stay for an extra year and meet their graduation requirements.</p>
<p>"I don't know the answers to your specific qx, but something to think about: I have heard that a lot of students don't want to follow through on the 3-2 program when the time comes, because it means missing their Sr. year at the first college and leaving behind all of their friends at a time when they just don't want to." </p>
<p>I've heard the same; it's something you should definitely consider. Many people will simply find it too much of a hassle to leave their friends and support network. On the other hand, if you can't wait to leave your current institution, it may be a good option;).</p>
<p>"You would be paying five years of tuition, which is rough for only an undergrad degree. Consider that many engin. firms will pay your master's; alternatively, you can get grants for your grad research. Spend that fifth year getting a master's and you'll be in a better position."</p>
<p>This program is actually a dual-degree program: you get a BA from the LAC and a BS in engineering from the University. It not only gives you the option to access to different alumni network and live in different places, but also allows you to major in something else other than hard sciences. For instance, one could major in, say, Economics or Sweedish Literature at the LAC and Chemical Engineering at the University.</p>
<p>"ariesathena I agree. Considering that you can have an undergrad degree in the hard sciences and then do a master's in engineering, why not go that route?"</p>
<p>If you are majoring in hard sciences, then it may be a better choice to go that route. Nevertheless, this program gives you the option of attending a top engineering school without the hassle of "applying." It is, for the most part, automatic: take the pre-reqs, get the GPA, and pack your bags:D. Something to consider. </p>
<p>Lastly, I would advise the OP to speak with Reed's Liaison for the 3-2 program. (I am assuming you are planning to attend Reed.) Good Luck!</p>
<p>~WF</p>
<p>...but you can get a liberal arts degree and an engineering degree from an engineering school if you want - and it's only four years. I guess a lot of it depends on your own financial situation - and career goals - and how long you are comfortable spending in undergrad.</p>
<p>"...but you can get a liberal arts degree and an engineering degree from an engineering school if you want - and it's only four years. I guess a lot of it depends on your own financial situation - and career goals - and how long you are comfortable spending in undergrad."</p>
<p>Very true, Aries. However, not all schools offer the flexibility to double-major and finish in four years --especially to major in something completely unrelated to engineering. I know you did, but it's certainly not the norm for most schools (some people sleep, you know ;)) </p>
<p>This program should be particularly appealing to those seeking a rigorous LAC's education (smaller classes, faculty contact, etc) in addition to their engineering studies.</p>
<p>I am not trying to argue that this program is the last coke in the desert -- but it is a good option for the right student.</p>
<p>Babe, breathing and sleeping are overrated activities. Eliminate those, and anything is possible. :p</p>