A two-year study was undertaken in Massachusetts to evaluate the impact of vocational education on released ex-offenders. In the first year, evaluation procedures and interview instruments were developed, a survey of inmates was conducted, and the data collected was analyzed and summarized in a report. Since the second year of the study was not funded, its followup survey of releases was not performed, and the study's conclusions and recommendations are based solely on the first year. One hundred and four male prisoners representing various racial and educational backgrounds answered the survey form. The vocational courses in which they were enrolled during their confinement included auto mechanics, welding, furniture, auto body, tailoring, carpentry, GED, computers, refrigeration and air conditioning, oil burner repair, heating, and sheet metal. According to their responses, they felt that they were receiving good education, which would be adequate preparation for employment upon release. The recommendations that were formulated expressed in part the following needs: (1) more and better vocational equipment and facilities; (2) more emphasis on individual testing and placement; (3) more basic skills education; (4) assistance from academic, as well as vocational, teachers; (5) more support from business, labor, and industrial groups; and (6) alternatives for inmates who are transferred to another institution to allow them to complete their training programs. (ELG)