5 years vs. 4 years to graduate

<p>I don't know much about West Coast schools. 4 years is standard on the Eastern Seaboard -- why is there so much talk in this forum about having to spend 5 years pursuing an undergraduate degree? GE's seem to play a part, is that right?</p>

<p>my take on it is that many east coast schools are private, and taking an extra year to graduate = lots of $$$. not so much of a problem with the UCs.</p>

<p>(i did a 3.7-year undergrad plus a 1.3-year master's - so yes, 5 years for me at UCSD, but i enjoyed every minute of it)</p>

<p>5 yrs seems to be the usual for engineers, esp if you want to take on a minor. i mean, have you LOOKed at the engineer 4 yr plan? seems crazy to me how anyone can finish in 4 (i know i wouldnt be able to).</p>