The many different kinds of urban institutions are identified and the state of higher education in urban areas is discussed. The effect of the land-grant colleges movement is described. Three guiding philosophies during the present century about American education are identified: colleges as aristocratic institutions, meritocracy, and…

A British observer compares relationships between universities and local communities in Britain and the United States, highlighting institutional changes necessary to make community involvement central to institutional mission. While U.S. institutions are increasingly involved with communities, British counterparts are limited by external…