The system of higher education of Norway is described. After tracing the history and present structure of the Norwegian higher education system, information is provided on: the administrative structure, staff, costs, library service, the content and organization of courses, research in higher education, adult education, teaching and evaluation methods, admission regulations, financial aid and social welfare measures for students, and foreign students. Information is presented on: regional distribution of higher education institutions, 1971-1979; number of colleges according to type and region, 1979; student enrollments according to region and type of college, 1979; student enrollments at universities, regional colleges, and colleges of education, 1938-1979; the number and percentage of 19- to 24-year-olds who are students; the ownership of higher education institutions; teachers in full- and part-time posts according to type of institution and type of position; public expenditures for higher education; and expenditures for research and development by sector. Appendices include a list of higher education institutions by county for 1981; and data on university and college graduates for 1971/1972-1978/1979. (SW)