Financial problems confronting schools and colleges of education in major, comprehensive universities were assessed. Interviews were conducted to determine current resources and collegiate missions. Each institution indicated which of four categories described its circumstances: downsizing, eroding, treading, or enhancing. The role of leadership strategies was addressed and recommendations were offered for deans regarding such problems as academic policies. Eighty-one universities described themselves in July 1982 and again in January 1983. As part of a second survey, comments were solicited from deans who wanted to clarify their current circumstances. Selected statements from deans are included. Of the 32 institutions indicating some change in status from July 1982 to January 1983, 19 moved down in status and 13 moved up. Based on visits to 24 colleges and their survey responses, observations are offered about the following issues: the nature of fiscal problems, planning, the information environment, faculty concerns and involvement, and the graduate-undergraduate dilemma. Five case studies are also included. In addition, five patterns of retrenchment and criteria for planning allocation decisions are suggested. Strategies for alleviating the consequences of fiscal problems are also recommended. (SW)