This collection of essays examines the status of higher education in Latin America and the Caribbean, focusing on historical trends, the administration of universities, and the influence of higher education on the greater society. It reviews the evolution of universities in the area during the 20th century, highlighting the emergence of Latin American models of universities. The book then examines these models (state-controlled, market-orientated, and hybrid) in detail, focusing on developments in Cuba, Chile, and Venezuela. It goes on to describe the higher education system in Venezuela in greater detail, examining the influence of privatization, politicization, faculty, and students on the evolution of Venezuelan universities. Bilateral, multilateral, and international cooperation among Latin American universities are then explored. The book also examines the role of ethnicity in higher education, focusing on ethnocentrism and educational policy in Venezuela. It discusses the possibilities for cross-cultural and international research in the region, with specific reference to the field of sociology. The book concludes by looking at recent educational reforms in Venezuela, the need for autonomy and accountability in higher education, and recent developments in Venezuelan higher education. Most chapters contain references. (MDM)