Major demographic trends and consequences for higher education are examined. The Baby Boom sharply increased birth rates from 1946 to 1964 and was followed by a decline in births that lasted from 1964 to 1978. Currently there is an increased birth rate, but of much smaller size than the Baby Boom rates, due largely to the smaller size of the family, new occupational opportunities for women, and new patterns of living singly. A decline in the number of high school graduates will last until 1998. The birth rate decline was primarily a white and middle-class phenomenon, while the birth rates for minorities stayed even. Regional differences will increase during the decade. Some Sun Belt states are encountering major increases in the number of elementary school children, while Frost Belt states do not show such an increase, and will not for some years. This trend suggests that by the end of the decade, higher education in the Sun Belt will expand, while Frost Belt states will continue to constrict their higher education enrollments. The demographic changes suggest that higher education should provide new programs in order to attract minorities and older adults, and programs offered in conjunction with industry and the military. (SW)