This planning bulletin presents the goals and priorities that the New York State University Regents consider to be the major statewide concerns for post-secondary education in the years ahead, and it is intended to be a guide for the development of the 1972 master plan by the State's institutions of higher education. Part I of the bulletin sets forth a statement of purpose and goals for higher education into the 1980's. The goals include: (1) equalization of educational opportunities; (2) the creation of a comprehensive system of higher education; (3) excellence in the pursuit of knowledge; (4) meeting the educational needs of society; and (5) having a system that is responsive to community needs. Part II identifies and describes priority concerns as seen by the Regents; these include: the provision of higher education for all age groups; open admissions; a relevant curriculum; effective teacher education; the economics and financing of higher education; financial aid to students; mobility in the educational continuum; governance; and the development of complementary institutional relationships. Part III explains the statewide planning process. The bulletin concludes with a bibliography of materials concerning the current status and role of higher education in society.