Methods of academic resource planning for research-oriented colleges and universities are explored. Focus is on resource allocation that is not strictly related to overall institutional enrollment level, but with the desirability of maintaining a minimum or "critical mass" levels of program breadth and quality. The purpose of critical mass modeling is to facilitate analysis, determination of priorities, and negotiation of academic program alternatives and resources. The critical mass approach would establish a campus-wide process and information base for establishing priorities of academic program development through (1) analysis of existing breadth and depth of faculty expertise in instruction and research at the subdisciplinary level, and (2) identification of subdisciplinary areas in which academic units would likely provide instruction and research in the future. Critical mass denotes the level of course offerings and research that academic units could not reduce and still maintain programs to meet objectives. Critical mass requirements would be set by unit faculty and then be negotiated with academic senates and administrators. The planning process described is designed for medium and large institutions without current formal, comprehensive, and integrated academic/resource planning systems. (Author/JMD)