The bullshit rules and time pressure are all part of making sure you actually make it through the system.
I, for example, took 4 years to get a two year degree in part because I didn't know where I was going, not all of the classes transferred, and the classes needed to transfer were different depending on which school you went to. So, you cover your bases since you might not get into your chosen school...
The rules only apply to those enrolled in the ASAP program. Non-ASAP students get the standard CC experience, come and go, part-time, etc.
The ASAP program forces those students into a more rigorous program in order to get them graduated. I don't see a problem with that - there is obviously a set of students that need the structure in order to excel. And it appears to be working.
I, for example, took 4 years to get a two year degree in part because I didn't know where I was going, not all of the classes transferred, and the classes needed to transfer were different depending on which school you went to. So, you cover your bases since you might not get into your chosen school...