The TopUniversities.com guide to the latest higher education news from around the world, on 23 May 2013.
US: ‘Transformational change’ predicted in US higher education by 2018
Based on the views of US university leaders and policy makers, ‘transformational change’ in the country’s higher education system is likely within the next five years, predict Randy Best and Jeb Bush. In an article published by Inside Higher Ed, the pair forecast that by 2018, almost all US universities will offer online course options, more than 80% of professional degrees will be gained online, and “new types of widely accepted degrees will have emerged that are less time-consuming, less expensive, and more relevant to 21st century jobs.” They also predict more top universities in other countries will focus on enrolling US students.
Canada: Falling behind in science research, report warns
A new government-commissioned report warns that Canada appears to be losing ground in scientific research and development, compared to other countries. The report from the Science, Technology and Innovation Council shows Canada’s spending on research and development relative to GDP has declined in comparison to other developed nations, The Globe and Mail reports. Also highlighted as areas where improvement is needed are the percentage of citizens earning science and technology doctorates, R&D investment in the private sector, and support for research in universities.
Australia: Melbourne University aims to raise A$500m by 2017
Melbourne University has set its most ambitious fundraising target ever, Pro Bono Australia reports. The university aims to raise A$500 million (about US$480m) by 2017, and is calling on philanthropists to help it reach this target. While the campaign, called Believe, was officially launched this week, a ‘quiet phase’ has already raised A$249m since 2008. Vice Chancellor Glyn Davis said “Our goals for philanthropy are entirely about supporting students, public mission and the wider community. Many donations will arrive slowly over many years, but they add in time to the investment in future generations of students, researchers and engagement.”
Japan: University of Tokyo seeking students from further afield
Japan’s University of Tokyo is introducing measures which aim to attract more non-local students, The Asahi Shimbun reports. This year almost 40% of students who passed the university’s entrance exam were from the Tokyo area, and the percentage of international students at the university is even lower than the national average of just 2%. Strategies to raise the university’s profile further afield include the launch of a MOOC later this year, more classes taught in English, admission interviews in locations worldwide, and the option to start courses in fall rather than spring.