The New Careers concept involves helping the disadvantaged to help themselves, by offering them entry level jobs with the opportunity for advancement to the professional level. A definite hierarchy is established according to tasks and educational requirements, and training is provided during the work day to provide the means for advancement. The purpose of this study of the strengths and weaknesses of the New Careers program is to permit more accurate determination of the program's needs by the Department of Labor. Major achievements of the program include: (1) high retention rate, (2) substantial salary gains by participants, (3) accuracy in reaching target population, (4) development of public services jobs, (5) assistance from institutions of higher education, with many participants receiving college credit, (6) success in developing career ladders, (7) participation of local employing agencies, and (8) favorable reactions by participants. However, some of the projects studied had problems in these areas, and in other areas, such as low entry-level salaries, lack of male enrollees, and insufficient training of both participants and staff. The report emphasized that the program is a demonstration project and should continue to be funded in order to reach its potential. (BH)