Several external degree programs of institutions in the United States are described. Some of the unique factors featured in these programs are: geographically accessible learning centers, few or no residency requirements, student designated curricula, independent study programs, and work experience programs. Florida International University, the University of Alabama in Tuscoloosa, and Eagle University, Kentucky, have designed programs to meet the needs of nontraditional students. At Florida International University emphasis is on a noncampus-based view of education, assessment of past experiences, and negotiated, individual learning contracts. Some students need greater flexibility in scheduling courses, counseling, and financial assistance. Other students, with few credentials but with rich backgrounds of experience, need greater flexibility in the definition and certification of educational experience. Those individuals who are geographically remote or unable to commute to a campus, the physically handicapped, prison inmates, servicemen, and women constitute a large group of potential students. Numerous colleges that offer alternative learning arrangements and services are noted. It is proposed that considerable leadership from the college administrators is necessary to provide external degree programs to meet identified educational needs. (SW)