New York University, as an educational corporation of the State of New York, derives its powers from a charter granted by act of the State Legislature in 1831. The original charter has been amended from time to time.

The line of authority in the administration of the University may be viewed as proceeding from the Board of Trustees to the President and Chancellor of the University. The Provost of the University is the senior assistant to the President and Chancellor in all academic matters.

The academic administration of the University is shared by University officers and administrators, school and departmental officers, the faculties of the several schools, the University Senate, and various University and inter-school councils and commissions.