Results of a survey aimed at determining the role and function of department heads at eight U.S. colleges and universities are presented. Two colleges were selected for each of four categories of institutions: service academies, military colleges, former military colleges and nonmilitary colleges. Data are provided on: departmental emphasis, academic rank and length of service of department heads, tasks of department heads, method of selection, permanance of position, identification with the next highest level of the university hierarchy, and authority. The authoritarian leadership model presented by department heads at the U.S. Air Force Academy is discussed. (SPG)