A study focused on the development and pilot testing of a student satisfaction instrument, the results of which may be used to identify weaknesses and strengths of nontraditional degree programs. The literature review demonstrated little empirical evidence that could support positive or negative conclusions regarding student satisfaction within such programs. The instrument constructed consisted of items for each of four latent variable areas: internal/external rewards; curriculum concerns; workplace mobility; and program administration. All items were scored on a five-point Likert scale; subjects answered only those questions they thought applied to them. Two levels of information were obtained: level of satisfaction with item and level of awareness of item. A random sample of 100 graduates of the nontraditional program at Southwest Texas State University between 1986-91 were chosen as the pilot group; 54 returned complete information. Results indicated that the four satisfaction subscales manifested high levels of internal consistency and reliability. The result of a principal components factor analysis was a three-factor solution that accounted for 70.1 percent of the total variance. The three factors were subjects' perception of their degrees and the underpinning of the degree structure, actual work force mobility, and ideal work force mobility. Development of a model for assessing student satisfaction with a university program using the latent variables and identified factors was recommended. (Appendixes include 11 references and the instrument.) (YLB)