The Academic Restructuring of British and German Universities and Greater Efficiency: a comparative perspective

Abstract

The paper describes, on a comparative basis, the approaches to, and the methods and effects of, academic restructuring in the universities of the United Kingdom and the Federal Republic of Germany, which has become necessary in the light of dwindling resources. The aim is to rationalise provision in order to achieve greater efficiency. To that effect courses and departments have been, or may be, closed or combined, and institutions may have to merge or even close. On the other hand, selective steps have been taken in both countries to protect and strengthen science and technology, especially research in these areas. The article also analyses the differences and similarities of such measures, given the underlying different traditions and conditions. It highlights, in particular, the role of the governments or their agencies in the implementation of such policies.