The purposes of this paper are to: (1) discuss the historical development of women in higher education; (2) describe the implementation of federal policies for women; (3) focus on selected problems encountered by women in the work-place; and (4) offer recommendations and suggestions for eliminating some of the problems that women encounter. The section on historical background highlights underrepresentation of women as students, employees, and leaders in higher education. Federal policies that are examined include the Fair Labor Standards Act (1938), the Equal Pay Act (1963), Title VII of the Civil Rights Act (1964), the Education Amendments (1972), and Executive Order 11246 (1965). Sexual discrimination and harassment issues and problems are featured. Recommendations from the Carnegie Commission's (1973) report regarding opportunities for women in higher education and from "The Personnel Administrator" (P. Somers, J. Clementson-Mahr) about handling sexual discrimination situations are provided. A 32-item bibliography is included. (JHP)