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UK universities are among the best in the world. They comprise the oldest, largest, and most internationalised higher education systems in the world.
However, there is widespread recognition that the business model of many UK universities is no longer fit for purpose. The current model is costly for students and there are growing concerns that it is no longer delivering for students, staff, the economy, or communities. UK universities are also grappling with regulatory and financial pressures, rising costs, tightening migration rules, and new research funding schemes.
As they move forward into an uncertain future, universities need to concentrate on leveraging their strengths for impact, focusing their activities in a more strategic and coordinated manner, and mobilising government, industry, and their individual communities towards shared, long-term priorities. This requires them to think more deliberately and proactively about their mission.
Our new paper, ‘The road not yet taken: Four new paradigms for UK universities’, is the result of conversations with more than 20 vice-chancellors and our global network of higher education experts. Drawing on examples from across the UK, as well as on Nous’ deep experience with the higher education sector globally, it identifies four potential paradigms for the future, each of which will enable UK universities to continue to deliver transformational benefits to the UK and the world:
By embracing the opportunities inherent in these four paradigms, we believe universities can establish a strong foundation for social impact and change across the UK and beyond.
Get in touch to explore how we can help your university make the transformations required to stay relevant in a globally competitive marketplace.
Connect with Julie Mercer and Minto Felix on LinkedIn.
Authors
Julie Mercer
Principal
Julie is an experienced and trusted advisor working with industry, government and the public sector to help address their most challenging issues.
Dr Minto Felix
Manager
Minto is skilled at working with leaders to address workforce and cultural challenges. Clients value his creative and rigorous approach to solving problems.