The book is presented in two volumes for convenience in reading. Chapters in the first volume cover central themes in the study of higher education, viz. idea and concept of a university institution, history of university in India and around the world; aims and philosophy of higher education around the world and in the present changing environment; governance, management and administration of a university system; and structure and organization of universities around the world. Chapters in the second volume focus on contemporary issues related to higher education, especially with reference to India, viz. university autonomy and accountability, financing higher education, globalization and privatization in higher education, collaboration of university and industry, research and innovation, value education and quality management in higher education. The book will help the students and teachers understand that higher education is not just academics but an education for life—something beyond the walls of the university.

It will help the readers to understand the structure and organization of higher education in India, various types of universities and professional institutes existing in India and the administration/ governance of universities and higher educational institutes.