This paper analyzes the development of higher education and evaluates the changes being introduced at universities and university colleges in eastern Germany. The paper discusses: (1) a brief outline of higher education in the new German states; (2) main aspects of the socially essential changes; (3) the basic character of the changes; (4) the establishment of autonomy by the former East Germans; (5) the reorganization of initial and further training; (6) the reform of research carried out at universities and university colleges; (7) the development of contacts with establishments of higher education abroad; and (8) changes in the structure and running of higher education. Contains an 18-item bibliography. (GLR)