This series contains operational and working budgets, appropriations requests, and other budget requests. Appropriations requests constitute the institution's request to the Colorado General Assembly for funds. Budget requests were created prior to the start of the fiscal year, typically in October, although dates varied depending on the type of budget and fiscal year timeline (for example, during the 1920s, the fiscal year ran October 1 - September 30, and then changed to July 1 - June 30).

The content within each report varies widely. In general, researchers will find budgetary information about the institution's general expenses and revenue/income, as well as enrollment/tuition information, budgets for capital construction, school plant, and student activities. Early reports contain detailed salary information and more specific budgets for items such as travel and supplies, as well as department-specific budget information. Later budgets are much broader, typically categorized into major divisions such as academic affairs, auxiliary services, and student services. Other information may include account summaries, grants, debts, and policy issues. Some reports contain analysis for a budgetary section's challenges and strengths.

Researchers studying a specific time period or broad administrative/academic division within UNC's history should find the reports within this series helpful.