The role of women in higher education during the past two decades is assessed, and dramatic changes are noted. Information for this collaborative work comes from a 4-year study by the Task Force on Women in Higher Education. Five sections have the following titles and subject matter: (1) "Introduction" (historical background and overview discussing 19th century beginnings, World War II and its aftermath, and the drive for equity); (2) "Women as Students" (the college experience, minority women, re-entry women, women's centers, women's colleges, and women's studies and curricular change); (3) "Women as Faculty Members and Scholars" (affirmative action, nontraditional fields for women, transitional and traditional fields for women, faculty women: preparation, participation, and progress, women's groups in professional associations, and research centers); (4) "Women in Administration and Governance" (women in educational administration and women as trustees); and (5) "Summary and Conclusions" (progress and prospects). Tables are included. Contains approximately 300 references. (SM)