The paper reports conclusions of a study group established to develop a Career Development Model for National Institute for the Deaf (NTID) students. An executive summary gives an overview of the group's most important conclusions, including that all students should have at least one good receptive language skill. Listed among the skills needed by students to begin their major program are mathematical competency, English language competency, ability to make career decisions, and receptive skills. Findings related to the career development of students include: personal/social skills should not be used as criteria for entry into the program; there are few programs which actually have formal prerequisites or entry requirements; and there is little reliance on test scores in terms of deciding which students can begin their major coursework. There was broad support for some type of preparatory program which would allow students more time and more data on which to base a career decision; allow for more interaction with students and more thorough assessment of students' abilities by faculty and staff; and allow time for appropriate skill building in the areas of information reception, math, English, and career decisionmaking. Appended is a summary of results from structured interviews with 36 members of the NTID professional staff. (SB)