In an effort to determine the state-of-the-art of ethnic studies in U.S. higher education, 3,038 postsecondary institutions in the United States and outlying areas were surveyed during the 1977-78 academic year. The study sought information about which schools have programs; which ethnic groups were studied; the number and nature of the courses offered; whether majors, minors, concentrations, degrees and/or certificates are offered; how long the programs have been in operation; how many students participate in the programs; which academic disciplines are represented; the nature and extent of community involvement in the programs; and the locally produced materials developed for the programs. Ethnic studies reported include: African American Studies; Hispanic American Studies; Mexican American Studies; Native American Studies; European American Studies; Asian American Studies; Jewish American Studies; Puerto Rican Studies; Slavic American Studies; Italian American Studies; Irish American Studies; Greek American Studies; and Arab American Studies. Among the results cited are the following: 439 schools provide over 99,200 students, a total of 8,805 courses on 62 ethnic groups, 316 undergraduate majors, 283 undergraduate minors, 58 graduate majors, 31 graduate minors, 94 associate's degrees, 240 bachelor's degrees, 86 master's degrees, 20 doctoral degrees, and 159 certificates; the average program has been in operation for seven years and serves 342 students, and the schools with ethnic studies programs are located in 48 states and the District of Columbia with the largest numbers in California, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Washington. It is concluded that for the United States to adequately prepare citizens for responsible participation in a complex culturally pluralistic society and a multicultural world, ethnic studies should be represented in general education. (LC)