<p>I think the quantitative skills developed in an engineering program, like ken285 said, really open all sorts of doors. You'd get those same skills in an applied math or physics program, but I doubt the doors such a program would open would be that different. If he wants to start out as an aerospace engineer, why not let him? </p>
<p>Generally, most grad schools admit students based on "their potential to succeed" in the graduate program, without considering the students specific undergraduate major too carefully. So anything where he'd be able to show strong quantitative skills would be fine (math, physics, computer science would all be fine).</p>
<p>And I don't believe there should be any set list of subjects any "educated" person should be familiar with. To be honest, I don't have an interest in Greek tragedy, at all, and if anyone thinks less of me for that I couldn't care less. Nor do I care to take any formal classes in art history or music. Why would I if I'm not interested in them? To join some elite social club of people who can knowledgeably discuss Greek tragedy? I'll let them talk about whatever it is they feel cool talking about while I talk about whatever it is I actually enjoy talking about. </p>
<p>What is it that your son wants to do? It sounds like he wants to at least give aerospace engineering a go, so why not? If he decides he wants to take electives in Greek tragedy or Art history, then great. If not, why would you care?</p>