The report of the Council on Postsecondary Accreditation (COPA) self-study advisory panel is presented in three parts. Following a historical review of the formation of COPA, part 1 looks at the first 5 years (1975-1980), and explains 1982-1986 activities as they related to priorities adopted in 1982. Information is offered on: COPA objectives and work responsibilities; governance and finance (governance narrative, historical development, and current budgets); policy development; committee on recognition; the COPA assemblies; professional development; publications; funded projects; research activities; relations with the Federal government; and relations with the states. A key to acronyms used in background materials is provided. Membership lists are included for the self-study advisory panel, the board of directors, ex-officio, the committee on recognition, and COPA staff. In part 2, COPA self-study advisory panel findings and recommendations are listed that were submitted to the COPA board in October 1986 regarding organizational objectives, priorities, governance, and financing. Particular focus is on the role of accreditation in achieving educational quality. Part 2 includes the changes to the panel and an overview of the study, written and oral testimony, and suggested changes in articles of incorporation and bylaws. A glossary of acronyms is included. Part 3 contains the COPA articles of incorporation, amendments to those articles, and bylaws. (SM)