An overview of the Swedish program for research in the field of higher education is presented. The research program deals with questions concerning the role of higher education in society, the design and governance of the system of higher education, the environment and working methods of research and of teaching, and the interplay between research and development organization and planning. These problem areas are described briefly and it is explained that knowledge reviews and empirical studies are used in order to gradually develop and refine concepts and thought models that contribute to the understanding of higher education and of its role in society. The account concludes with four appendices on the research program's extent and the distribution of funds between areas and disciplines, a list of the current research projects, what conferences and problem area meetings have been held in recent years, and an up-to-date list of the research program's knowledge and problem reviews. (Author/PHR)