The survival of higher education institutions is addressed in this book. Strategies and procedures for assuring institutional vitality are outlined, based on the author's 30 years of studying and advising colleges and universities in various states of financial health. The major components of institutional vitality are enumerated, including a well-defined educational mission and clientele, unified administrative leadership, and vigorous cost control. Identified are those institutions in greatest danger, such as privately-supported colleges lacking a distinctive purpose and identity. Chapters discuss such topics as: improving administrative structures, policies, and leadership; management systems for handling crisis and development; anticipating and planning for the future; defining educational mission; enrollment improvement; faculty performance and cost; and implementing survival strategies. A reading list is provided at the end of each chapter for in-depth study. Avoiding error is offered as the best remedy for future ails, best accomplished by having adequate consultants and administrators keenly aware of all the functions of the higher education system. An appendix offers suggestions for increasing income. Also provided are additional references and an index. (LC)