The programs discussed in this document are those sponsored by public school systems with enrollments of 12,000 or more in which students voluntarily enroll as an option to the regular high school program available in their district. The characteristics of alternative high schools are outlined and consideration is given to (1) college and university reaction to applications from students who have attended alternative high schools, (2) the reaction of State departments of education to experimental school programs, and (3) procedures followed by regional accreditation associations in approving alternative high school programs. Descriptions of 47 alternative high school programs serving students in 38 school systems are provided, including a majority of those programs that were in operation during the school year 1971-72. A brief bibliography, an index to the programs, and several student and program evaluation forms are provided. (MLF)