This policy analysis contains a historical base, a conceptual framework, and an evaluation of policies related to the implementation of program standards in vocational education. It is intended for policymakers at all levels, professional organizations, and vocational teachers responsible for carrying out the actual implementation of program standards policy. Chapter 1 is an introduction that provides definitions, a historical review of standards in education, and a description of recent efforts to improve educational standards. Chapter 2 sets forth the problem: at what level of government--federal, state, or local--should program standards in vocational education be administered? In chapter 3 six criteria are presented for use in judging the three leadership options: curriculum flexibility, evaluation use, articulation, program access, policy administration, and compliance. Chapter 4 contains descriptions of how a policy requiring vocational education to base its program on a set of standards might look at each level. In chapter 5 each of the three policy alternatives is analyzed in terms of the six criteria. Pros and cons are listed for each option. Chapter 6 recommends a state-sponsored standards policy as the most efficacious in enhancing excellence in vocational education and offers reasons for this policy choice. (YLB)