Hmmm, looking at http://behrend.psu.edu/school-of-engineering/academic-programs/mechanical-engineering , it looks like PSU Erie does have more of its own BA/BS programs than many other PSU branch campuses. Perhaps the guarantee into the ME major refers to if you stay there, rather than transfer to PSU University Park. It would be cheaper to stay there than transfer, or about $144k + travel total for four years. Still not much of a deal compared to your CSU and UC options, and it would not have the name prestige you are looking for.