'Rotten at the Core?' The Higher Education Debate in Germany

Abstract

The problems of underfunding and structural shortcomings in higher education in Germany are well documented. The Humboldtian tradition with its focus on scholarly orientation still characterises the universities today. The validity of this kind of orientation is now called into question. The major strategies for reform that are being discussed include opening higher education institutions to market forces, allowing them more autonomy and encouraging more diversification within the system. Also involved in this discussion is the review of the curriculum and the structure of degree courses. However, often conflicting interests of the parties involved in this reform process mean that the actual pace of change is slow and cautious.