This final report describes activities and accomplishments of a 3-year, federally supported project at the University of Alabama (Tuscaloosa) to improve the retention of African-American students in undergraduate premedical programs by developing an improved personal and social support system for black students interested in the health professions. A Student Support System (SSP) emphasizing peer group involvement, leadership by a special advisor, and professional role model contacts was established. Program success was indicated by a substantial increase in the number of African-American students applying to health professional schools; 58 percent have matriculated in professional schools. These results represented a twofold increase compared to the preceding 8 years. A substantially greater retention rate was also found for SSP participants when compared with nonparticipants. However, the goal of improving the academic record and entrance-test qualifications of participants was not achieved. Program evaluation also indicated the importance of the SSP advisor as a source of support for students. Attached tables detail the project's results. (DB)