Abstract: Rather than a linear process from single to multiple functions, the development of university function has its own inherent logic. University function involves beyond academic teaching, academic research, cultural inheritance and social service, in which there are rich contents, open to various explanation and understanding. If university is not understood within the same logic framework, no doubt this will lead to ambiguity, deviation and generalization in understanding the key concepts, finally misinterpreting “university”. Academic teaching and academic research are the “body” of university function while cultural inheritance and social service are the “usage” of university function. And the integration of both body and usage is the inherent logic of the development of university function. University should focus on improving the quality of academic teaching and academic research in order to cultivate professional talents of advanced learning, noble minds and critical thinking, and to promote cultural selection and criticism, cultural inheritance and innovation in support of social development.

Key words: higher education, university, university function, academic research, academic teaching