This study evaluated the relative merits of the more rigid Basic Studies Program and the more flexible General Education Program in the College of Education at Temple University in terms of the academic achievement of students and scores on the National Teacher Examinations (NTE). The sample consisted of 503 students in the Basic Studies Program and 306 students in the General Education Program. The NTE results were available for 240 students in the Basic Studies Program and 140 in the General Education Program. Data on the independent and dependent variables were obtained from student records. The General Education Program contained more students who were married, belonged to minority groups, scored lower on the Scholastic Aptitude Test scales, and had more transfer credit hours (and, therefore, took and passed fewer credit hours at the university). No difference in the cumulative grade point average of the two groups was observed at the university. Differences were observed on six of the scales of the NTE, with students in the Basic Studies Program obtaining higher scores. (Tables and course requirements for the two programs are included.) (RC)