This monograph summarizes three research projects on competency-based administrator preparation that were undertaken by the National Association of Secondary School Principals' University Consortium. An extensive Texas study surveyed principals' attitudes toward preparation programs, and two replication studies were conducted in Michigan and New York. Chapter 1 provides background information for the studies. Chapters 2 and 3 examine how practicing principals from three states see their preparation programs. The next two chapters examine several university programs in relation to the consortium's performance-based recommendations. The sixth and seventh chapters report on current procedures used in principals' assessment and professional development, reflecting some of the initial work supported by the Texas A & M University Principals' Center. Chapter 6 concentrates on principal evaluation, and chapter 7 reviews research and development activity producing and supporting the Management Profile, a comprehensive strategy to assist principals in identifying and strengthening their management skills. Chapter 8 summarizes individual studies and recommendations for future activities. (MLH)