A study surveyed 4,400 students enrolled in 24 of the 26 private career schools who were members of the Minnesota Association of Private Postsecondary Schools in January 1990. A questionnaire gathered demographic data on students, information on how they came to choose the school and program, and students' assessment of the quality of the training and services they received. Analysis of the data revealed that a majority of students were women, white, beyond the typical college-going age, single, and high school graduates. Students rejected other types of institutions because they thought the quality of programs offered was poor, the program was too long, or the institution did not offer a program in a field of interest. The primary reason students chose a particular school was its reputation for job placement. Students indicated they would recommend the school to a friend. Over 70 percent were satisfied with admissions, their programs, facility and equipment, and job placement assistance. Few student characteristics were significantly associated with satisfaction with school. Differences among students enrolled in schools accredited by the three major accrediting bodies--National Association of Trade and Technical Schools, Association of Independent Colleges and Schools, and National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences--were identified. (10 references) (YLB)