Little more than a decade ago, with the recommendations of the Robbins Report being rapidly implemented, the future for higher education looked bright: more universities, a great expansion in places, new and more varied courses.
Now, to many observers, the universities seem to be in the doldrums: disenchanted students, disgruntled staffs, widespread dissatisfaction with an outmoded curriculum and degree structure, and a growing disposition to question the role and values of the traditional system as it continues to operate in a changing world.
What should be the response of the universities? More ' manpower planning ', with the needs of industry in mind? Less concern with vocational training and more insistence on scholarship for its own sake? Fewer places for schoolleavers and a warmer welcome for the mature student?
Harry Ree. formerly Professor of Education at the University of York. discusses the prospects with some of those closely concerned.
Producer STANLEY VNLLIAMSON BBC Manchester