In the 1980s, nontraditional education is becoming an outdated term, because elements of such education have been integrated into most colleges and universities. The major innovation within nontraditional education is the external degree. Valley developed six major models of external degrees: administrative facilitation, modes of learning, the examination, validation, credits, and complex systems. Learners choosing external degree programs at the associate and bachelor levels are adults who choose to avoid sacrificing commitment to work and family responsibilities, who are seldom influenced by credit for work or life experience, who work fulltime in responsible positions and earn commensurately, and who are motivated by personal satisfaction and increased respect. Two barriers to growth in higher education innovation are lack of adequate information about nontraditional choices and quality. A network of accessible adult counseling centers nationwide is needed to help potential adult students assess needs and locate educational providers. To evaluate the educational structure and traditions, multiple indicators that assess both process and outcomes should be used. Adult educators must be watchdogs to ensure quality education for adult learners. (YLB)