Vocational education must be accessible to all students because it has inherent value to a large spectrum of students in secondary schools, not just to those who are majoring in a vocational area. It is a natural setting for the integration of mathematics, science, social studies, economics, communications, and environmental studies; it is also a first-hand approach to education; and an opportunity to explore the world of work. Access to vocational education has three dimensions. First, there is the element of availability of vocational programs to all students. Second, there is the all-important issue of access to knowledge once the student is in a vocational program or course. Third, it implies access to the services provided through vocational education. These three dimensions of access to vocational education are based on the idea that it is an integral part of the total educational system and not separate from the mainstream of education in public secondary and postsecondary schools. Some obstacles to access to vocational education are student unawareness of vocational offerings, high school graduation requirements, students' preoccupation with college entrance requirements, students being advised out of vocational opportunities, attitudes of school personnel and parents, travel time, scheduling, and lack of respect for varied learning styles. Access to vocational education should be ensured for all students, and all students should have access to the services it provides, such as counseling and job placement. (KC)