UK universities are facing significant and sustained financial challenges in the face of flat UK fees and pressure on in-bound international student recruitment. This will be compounded by longer-term headwinds including forecast demographic decline from 2030, changing student attitudes to university and its perceived value for money, and technological disruption.
With significant increases in funding unlikely, Ewan Robertson explores what this might mean for the structure of the UK higher education landscape, and how it could lead to greater segmentation and differentiation within the sector.
Furthermore, the article discusses how university groups, federations and less formal collaboration will emerge as universities seek scale and relevance in an increasingly competitive environment.
This article argues that the changing landscape makes it more important than ever to be pro-active in positioning – taking action now with deep understanding of strategic options to thrive in the years to come.
Author: Ewan Robertson
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