The complexities involved in combining generalized and specialized studies are discussed in a descriptive analysis of the Harvey Mudd College (HMC), which has a campus environment typical of US institutions offering undergraduate engineering programs. Of 7 environmental characteristics at HMC student personalities and the socio-psychological culture (created by students, faculty and curricula), contribute most to academic surroundings. The majority of the engineering students were found to be self-reliant, free from dogmatic religious thought, and considered their vocational training as the prime reason for going to college. Their lack of commitment to social, political or scholarly causes, however, results in a stable though unexciting college environment. It is felt that humanities and social science programs contribute to the development of certain student characteristics that broaden professional and social roles. Liberal studies should be included in engineering programs to motivate critical thinking and social commitment, and to expand the limited outlook currently held by engineering students. (WM)