The National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities conducted a study of the openings, closings, mergers, and accreditation status of independent institutions in the United States from Spring 1970 through Fall 1976. Information was gathered primarily from annual editions of the "Education Directory" and "Accredited Institutions of Postsecondary Education," with verifications through contact with state associations, accrediting agencies, and institutions themselves. Results showed that during this period: (1) 46 independent colleges and branch campuses were founded; (2) 113 colleges and branch campuses closed; (3) in addition to closings, 39 colleges and branch campuses merged with other institutions; (4) 15 colleges shifted to public control; (5) 262 institutions attained accreditation status from nationally recognized agencies; and (6) no institution other than those closed lost accreditation. For each institution concerned, this information is given: the year the college was entered in the "Education Directory," the year founded, institution type (two-year, four-year, or specialized); accreditation status, headcount enrollment; single-sex or coed type; and organizational or religious affiliation. (Author/MSE)