Issues facing the private university and educational needs of students are considered. There is a need for the government and universities to develop mutual understanding. Private institutions want to be self-reliant but have had to depend increasingly for financial and research aid from the government. The government understands little about the nature of private educational institutions. The private institution cannot be dealt with like profit-making corporations, big labor, or armies. Private (and public) higher education institutions are becoming one of the most heavily regulated parts of American society. The push for vocationalism early in the student's life is detrimental to developing a civic sense and to freely educate oneself. It is stressed that a liberal education with a required curriculum can help develop students who can make rational, humane, informed choices. (SW)