This study of black students' access to higher education and their progression into employment is based on two research studies conducted in England between 1989 and 1992 at a group of schools and higher education institutions. The text is illustrated throughout by quotations from students, educational staff, and the two research studies. The first chapter titled, "The Rhetorics of Access and the Realities of Exclusion," defines some of the fundamental aspects of the problem. The next chapters deal with: (1) strategies for access, (2) issues of quality and equality, and (3) methods for monitoring diversity and progression. Each chapter presents, first, examples and strategies derived from the research; and then develops the conceptual and theoretical implications. Chapter 2 (written with W.C. Yee) discusses strategies for working with and establishing partnerships with schools; the next chapter discusses outreach and dissemination strategies for communities, parents, and students. Chapters 4 and 5 consider staff and curriculum development in higher education and black support groups. Ethnic monitoring and progression into employment are discussed in Chapters 6 and 7. The final chapter presents a policy for equality. Some chapters suggest other useful texts. (Contains approximately 150 references.) (CH)