Nursing education programs in Kentucky were surveyed in 1981 to assist the process of manpower planning and educational program development for registered nurses. The survey is part of a statewide coordinated system for nursing education developed through the Kentucky Nursing Education Project. Thirty-three nursing programs were surveyed that represent the following five types: hospital diploma; associate degree; baccalaureate degree-generic; baccalaureate degree for registered nurses; and master's degree. Information was obtained on the number and relevant background of applicants, admissions and enrollees, academic articulation policies and practices, demographic factors of enrollees, potential capacity of program facilities, problems associated with attrition, academic articulation and program capacity factors, and number and outcome of graduations. Major findings include the following: fall enrollments in nursing programs for registered nurses (baccalaureate and master's degree) increased from 1979 to 1980; diploma, associate, and generic baccalaureate degree program enrollments declined; and none of the five generic baccalaureate programs were operating at capacity enrollment. A questionnaire is appended. (SW)