A history of the development of higher adult education in the United States and Canada is presented. The point is made that higher education in North America includes a variety of post-high school institutions, including universities, senior colleges, junior colleges, community colleges, technical institutes and professional schools. A study of the organizational structure of the National University Extension Association (NUEA) reveals the pattern of the historical evolution of higher adult education. At the time of organization the emphasis was on methods of extension, primarily classes and correspondence study. Now the structure not only continues to recognize the common concerns for methodology but has expanded to provide for sharing concerns in program content, e.g., social problems, professional continuing education. It is stated that the most distinctly innovative expansions in higher adult education have occurred since World War II. Two are: (1) the development of residential centers for continuing education, and (2) the development of special degree programs for adults. Finally, it is pointed out that the universities in the 1970's face receding public support. Various possible responses to this lack of support are discussed. (Author/CK)