Based on the need for an investigation of the impact of health education throughout Texas, a research proposal was prepared and submitted to the Texas Christian University Research Foundation in the fall of 1978. The 2-year study was limited to freshman students enrolled in the 123 colleges and universities in Texas. By selecting freshman students, it was believed that the results of the study would prove useful in assessing the effectiveness of current school health instructional programs in Texas elementary and secondary public schools. The Kilander-Leach Health Knowledge Test, the study instrument, consists of 100 multiple-choice questions which are divided into 11 health areas: (1) personal health; (2) community health; (3) nutrition; (4) family living; (5) first aid; (6) safety; (7) consumer health; (8) chronic disease; (9) mental health; (10) stimulants and depressants; and (11) communicable disease. Statistical data obtained from the survey are presented in tabular form. In a discussion of the implications of the findings of the study, the point is made that modifications need to be made in existing Texas health education programs. When analyzed by content areas, the results indicated that, in terms of knowledge, respondents did not display strength or even moderate strength in any content area. An analysis of the findings is followed by recommendations for the improvement of existing health programs in the public schools and in institutions of higher education. (JD)