This 6-year project sought to develop programs to impact student academic success and retention. Three separate programs were developed to serve the learning improvement needs of different constituents and situations. All programs were offered at a large, land-grant research university. The Residential Success Program was designed to provide students with a structured living environment oriented to developing effective study abilities and success attitudes. Academic, social, cultural, and personal development were integrated into a single retention program with services from housing, advising, recreation, and student development being coordinated in a residence hall to provide a guided living situation. The Military Life Style project was a learning improvement program for freshmen, integrated into an existing military training program. Program components included an eight-session seminar to introduce freshmen to college success skills, a military instructors workshop, and use of scholastic officers to monitor and promote academic achievement. College Success Strategies is a three-credit course designed to teach students the skills, strategies, and attitudes important to academic success. Results of evaluation of each program are reported. Seven themes that illustrate the issues, opportunities, and challenges associated with learning improvement programs are identified. (Contains 21 references.) (JDD)