Ways to initiate or improve allied health education activities are discussed to assist faculty and administrators in colleges or universities that enroll significant numbers of minority students. The information was developed as part of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities' (AASCU) Minority Allied Health Project, which provided technical assistance to minority institutions. Criteria to evaluate an institution's potential for developing allied health programs are presented, along with a list of major background materials. In addition, information is provided on how to estimate program costs and to conduct feasibility studies and surveys of personnel and clinical resources. Guidelines for developing new and cooperative allied health programs are included, along with information on assessing and improving current programs. Finally, specific strategies for promoting allied health career awareness and student recruitment and retention are outlined. Appended materials include sample feasibility studies, consultant reports, and affiliation agreements, as well as a list of recommended consultants in the allied health education field and the names of contacts at institutions currently developing allied health activities under the AASCU project. (SW)