To determine the value of summer programs in relation to the total programs of vocational agriculture in Iowa, this study, representing 80 percent of the vocational agriculture departments in the state, utilized the data from completed annual reports and the monthly activity reports. The summer programs and total programs were rated by four agricultural education consultants in the Iowa Department of Public Instruction. The summer program of vocational agriculture is an important and integral phase of a total program because seasonal educational activities and techniques may be utilized. Also, provision is made for the opportunity to use more fully the educational and community resources on a 12-month basis. Departments with highly rated programs conducted at least twice as many instructional field trips and tours as did departments with lower rated programs. This M.S. thesis was submitted to Iowa State University. (GB)