The purpose of the research is to analyze the possibilities and limitations of using the university of the city as a center for scientific expertise of data on the population and their life in the territory to assist authorities and businesses in making management decisions regarding the development strategy of the municipality. A traditional university is a tool for teaching students in higher education programs. In addition to this key task, it can provide scientific, educational, creative activities for students. The trends in the development of higher education indicate the new mission of the university - to be the center of development of the territory where the campus is located. The main research methods used are document analysis, quantitative review of university development indicators, and assessment of university representation in strategic development documents of the city of Ekaterinburg. The analysis showed that large universities can focus scientific and educational expertise in the direction of developing the territory and city of presence, however, there are several institutional restrictions that do not allow this to be done promptly. To embed the university in the development processes of the municipality, turning it into a «think tanks» that ensures the development of the territory and the city in the current direction, the complex work of the authorities, the university management, involved employers, as well as applicants and their parents is required.
