A comprehensive study was undertaken of the effectiveness of an external degree program implemented in Illinois to meet the needs of adult students studying for the bachelor's degree. The rationale, history, structure, administration, and governance of the statewide program offered through five universities are described. The majority of students in the program are beyond the traditional age for attending college, and minority groups, especially blacks, are well represented. The younger adults are predominantly male, while women are better represented among older students. Most of the students have attended several colleges and universities and enjoy the unlimited opportunity to apply these credits toward a degree. The flexible degree design enables adults to select courses and fields of specialization suited to their professional guidelines specifying the procedures for admission, transfer of credit, classes, fees, and graduation requirements have been successfully implemented in all five campuses. Information is provided on student characteristics, the assessment of prior learning, academic programs and educational background of students, and evaluation of graduates. Recommendations are offered based on the five years of operation, in which more than 6,000 students have been enrolled and an excess of 1,500 have graduated from the program. (SW)