External degree programs are those educational programs that respond to acknowledged needs in higher education: greater access to post-secondary studies, more flexible curriculum offerings, and recognition of nontraditional forms of learning. This paper describes several external degree programs at various institutions across the U.S. Some of the unique factors featured in these programs are: (1) geographically accessible learning centers; (2) few or no residency requirements; (3) student designed curricula; (4) independent study programs; and (5) work-experience programs. Certain fears surrounding the creation of external degree programs mainly concern the deterioration of academic standards that may appear as a result of too little structure. Proponents of these programs, however, feel that this is not a danger if 3 factors are in line: motivated students; adequate resources; and a process for proper guidance and rigorous assessment of the student. (HS)