Advanced mathematics courses are required for all branches of engineering. Courses such as advanced calculus, differential equations and numerical analysis are taken during the first 2 years of undergraduate coursework. Even students who excelled in math in high school find it difficult to understand and apply advanced mathematical concepts.
Great researchers don't always make the best instructors. Colleges who focus faculty on research and funding may not spend enough time teaching students the core engineering concepts they need to succeed. First-year engineering students who lack attention and guidance from professors are less likely to finish. The lack of teaching focus contributes to the high dropout rate of engineering students.
Engineering students work their way through school to pay the bills and gain practical work experience. When coursework becomes increasingly difficult, it is challenging to balance time for studying with the demands of a job. When tuition increases suddenly after a student has already started coursework, it can contribute to high dropout rates.
Many college-aged students come to the United States to pursue an engineering degree. Although they are highly motivated to be successful, they can have problems maintaining residency in the United States. This issue, coupled with financial problems and homesickness, can predispose foreign students to dropping out of school.