There are many different types of college and university systems in America--sometimes even within the same state. The system-level office of academic affairs in California, for example, plays a greater role in faculty appointments, promotions, and compensation than that office does in other systems. Some systems centralize legal services,…

Several years ago, students in Central America rarely leave their countries to find work elsewhere. Such is the case of Sebastian Pinto who felt that his degree would not mean much beyond Guatemala, his country. But now, universities in Central American have started to offer regionally accredited degrees that would allow students' credentials to…

Critics of the Texas higher education system complain South Texas public colleges have not shared state funds equitably and suggest mergers would allow the small institutions to gain political power and funding for expansion. However, the mergers are seen as only a beginning to the regional upgrading of higher education. (MSE)

Florida is working to improve its university system's reputation at the same time that it faces increased demand for limited spaces, stiff civic competition for public funding, international political issues, continuing regional disagreement, and conflict between legislators and institutions. (MSE)

A far-reaching plan to create a European system of higher education, complementing development of a single economic market, is near approval. Eventually, curricula, standards, policies, and financing would converge in member countries. The political mood is currently supportive, and the plan would extend existing successful cooperative…

Backers of Western Governors University hope it will revolutionize the ways colleges compete for students, professors teach, and education is measured, and believe the virtual university can help contain the costs of educating growing numbers of students in the 16 participating states. However, the administration faces challenges in areas of…