<p>I wouldn't say there are very few jobs in engineering. Some fields have more opportunities than others, and some areas are better suited for certain majors. I've been lucky enough to be in a situation where it's worked out for me (civil engineering in New York City), though I know others who haven't been (i.e. chemical engineering inside the city). Many of my chemE buddies ended up taking jobs all over the country, because that's where the best positions were. </p>
<p>Engineers make a lot of money compared to any other college grad with only a n undergrad degree. I've seen statistics to back this up, but I don't have the link. If you're comparing engineering grads (with bachelor's degree) to a MD or a JD, then of course the salaries will seem pretty low. There's also nothing to say that you can't pursue a JD or a MD after getting a BS in engineering.</p>
<p>$75k starting salary is definitely possible if you work for an oil company. Average engineering starting salary is probably in the $50k's, which won't make you rich, but is more than enough for me to start out. Heck, it's a lot more than my family's household income before I started working, and I thought we lived quite comfortable. I guess it all depends on what you want.</p>