HEM4230 – The Economic and International/Global Dimension of Higher Education

Course content

The Economic and International/Global Dimension consists of two units

1. Higher education economics

The economics of higher education will be the topic of this unit, implying that topics such as the following will be addressed

  • the meaning and implications of the ‘economization’ of higher education and higher education policies
  • changes in public and private funding patterns of higher education
  • the rapid changes in relationships between higher education and the world of work amidst moves towards a knowledge society
  • the growing importance of lifelong learning
  • the trend toward globalisation of economy and society

2. Globalization, internationalization and the knowledge society

This unit will identify and analyse the impact of globalisation/internationalization trends and the demands of the knowledge society on higher education. Key issues will include

  • the changing role of national governments in the coordination of higher education systems, multi-level policy formulation and implementation
  • the effects of increasing global competition on the various functions of higher education and on institutional and programme diversity and strategies for organisational adaptation

Learning outcome

The aim of the first unit is to provide you with a theoretical foundation of the economic dimension of higher education. Amongst other things, the aim is to increase your understanding of the importance of the economic dimension of higher education in the framework of the international discussions on the knowledge society/economy. As an important element in this, you will also learn the nature and importance of the current ‘privatization’ trend in higher education. The aim of the second unit is to provide you with a theoretical foundation concerning the main internationalization and globalization trends in higher education.

Admission

Students who are admitted to study programmes at UiO must each semester register which courses and exams they wish to sign up for in Studentweb.

If you are not already enrolled as a student at UiO, please see our information about admission requirements and procedures.

This course is primarily for students enrolled in the Master of Philosophy in Higher Education programme.  Students outside of this programme who are interested in taking this course can be admitted if there are available places.

Teaching

The units offer lectures and seminars relating to the described subjects. Each unit is organized in block form. The consists of one introductory lecture, lectures and seminars. A minimum of 80 per cent attendance is required of all students.

Examination

You are required to write one paper per unit based on the literature. The papers ought not to exceed more than 7 pages in length. The papers will be reviewed by the involved teaching staff.

Use of sources and citation

You should familiarize yourself with the rules that apply to the use of sources and citations. If you violate the rules, you may be suspected of cheating/attempted cheating.

Language of examination

The examination text is given in English, and you submit your response in English.

Grading scale

Grades are awarded on a scale from A to F, where A is the best grade and F is a fail. Read more about the grading system.

Explanations and appeals

Resit an examination

Withdrawal from an examination

It is possible to take the exam up to 3 times. If you withdraw from the exam after the deadline or during the exam, this will be counted as an examination attempt.

Special examination arrangements

Application form, deadline and requirements for special examination arrangements.

Facts about this course

Credits
15
Level
Master
Teaching
Every autumn
Examination
Spring and autumn

The course is closing.  The last semester for teaching is H22. The last exam will be held H23.

Teaching language
English