Because of the lower standards companies no longer accept an engineering degree as a sign of competence. They either make you take a test, or they insist on a certificate from a private organization like The American Society of Quality Engineers. To get that you must take the society’s courses and tests which are very expensive, and you’ll need to pay them every year plus take continuing education every year. Whereas I was able to apply for quality jobs, management jobs and engineering jobs with one degree now you’ll need a certificate for each job type.
It's a trend in Information Technology as well, e.g. employers expect 3rd party certifications OR give in house grueling technical interviews. Unfortunately though there is no alternate certification for practicing law that can be used in lieu of the Bar Exam.