Results of a self-study conducted by Rice University, Texas, on the impact of federal legislation, especially nondiscrimination legislation, and the influence of federally-sponsored research are described. A survey was conducted of department chairmen, administrative staff, and a few selected faculty through interviewing and questionnaire administration. Among the legislation that has had the greatest impact on the university are the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the required compliance with Executive Order 11246, Title IX, and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Title IX has changed the university's policy and practices relating to athletics and particularly the intercollegiate athletic program. Action has been taken to make the university accessible to the handicapped, but structural modifications of all existing facilities would impose a significant financial burden. Some major changes have occurred which have affected the university's traditional hiring philosophy and practices, administrative procedures, and finances. Equal Educational Opportunity legislation and affirmative action regulations were cited as the federal legislation that had the greatest impact on the university in the last decade. The Occupational Safety and Health Act and the Buckley Amendment have also affected the university. The federal government has been the principal sponsor of research. Problems created by changes in government funding priorities and problems encountered in reporting and documentation required for federal grants and contracts are reviewed. (SW)