The Research and Development Center Program of the U. S. Office of Education is described in this document. The program objectives and criteria used in evaluating proposals for the establishment of research and development centers are indicated. Four research and development centers are discussed in relation to their common characteristics and some of the problems and strains which may be associated with these characteristics. The four centers include those at the University of Pittsburgh, the University of Oregon, the University of Wisconsin, and Harvard University. (MJM)