A description of several different approaches used to obtain information about college environments is given. Those seeking such information include high school seniors, college administrators, student personnel workers, counselors, and college presidents. Guides published detailing this information include the "American Universities and Colleges," which includes basic factual information on more than 1,250 institutions; and the "College Handbook," which includes similar information, plus detailed information about the academic ability of incoming freshmen. Another source of information centered around Pace's assessing the personality needs of an individual and the presses of his environment which influence his bahavior. Another attempt is Astin's stimulus approach. It is concluded that environmental measures need to be tied more closely to theory and to practice. (CK)