Changing”is the main characteristic of the modern age.This article starts with the connotations of contingency theory,reveals the quintessence of contingency theory,analyses the necessity and feasibility of the use of contingency theory in the management of colleges and universities,and inquires into the issues how the administrative personal properly use the contingency theory in their managing practice of colleges and universities,adapt themselves to the modern management of higher education,fully arouse the subjective initiative of the managed objects,promote the reform and development of higher education.