A study examined patterns of enrollment in adult education programs during incarceration. Vocational and academic programs in a single correctional facility in Massachusetts were studied over a four-month period in order to discern any existing differences between offenders who did and did not participate in educational programs and also to determine whether any significant differences existed between those who remained in programs and those who withdrew. Of the 1,196 individuals in the sample, 499 (42 percent) participated in educational programs. At the end of the study, 149 (30 percent) of the original 499 program participants were still enrolled in courses, 163 (33 percent) had completed courses, and 187 (37 percent) had withdrawn from courses. It was concluded that the following types of individuals were more likely to participate in educational programs: younger offenders, persons belonging to a minority group, and those with a less extensive criminal history. Offenders with low levels of education were more likely to participate in academic programs, whereas those with high levels of education were more likely to participate in vocational programs. No differences were found between those offenders who tended to complete educational programs and those who withdrew. (Ten tables of data are included in this report.) (MN)