A survey was conducted of the literature pertaining to higher education program review. Many institutions of higher education have come under intense scrutiny and criticism, and have been required to respond to public pressure for accountability. Program review is one component of the assessment of institutional effectiveness. The following seven themes were identified as providing insight into contemporary program review processes: (1) purposes of program review; (2) different approaches to program review; (3) program review models; (4) common elements in successful evaluations; (5) criteria used in program review; (6) processes used in program review; and (7) utilization of results. Minor issues related to program review that were cited in the literature include common myths, political realities, the state's role in the process, and the links to accreditation. (Contains 53 references.) (SLD)