This report presents an analysis of data on student trends in higher education (HE) in the United Kingdom for the Committee of Vice Chancellors and Principals (CVCP) of UK universities. It is based on research including a review of the literature, interviews in a sample of 14 universities to investigate individual institutional trends, consultations with policy and professional bodies on student participation and demand for graduates; and an assessment of likely future changes in student numbers over the next decade. Among findings highlighted are: (1) a 54 percent increase in the number of students between 1989 and 1994; (2) underrepresentation of women in science and engineering, of students from low socioeconomic backgrounds, of some ethnic groups, and of students with a disability; (3) increased diversity in HE institutions as demonstrated by growth of the further education sector and greater regional focus of many institutions; (4) an ambiguous picture of employers' demands for graduates; (5) wide support from employers and educational and professional bodies for expansion of student intake; and an increasing demand for higher education by a more diverse population. (Contains approximately 200 references.) (CK)