Organizational Theory in Higher Education

The third edition of Organizational Theory in Higher Education is a comprehensive and accessible treatment of organizational theory and higher education administration. Through her presentation of both traditional and contemporary organizational theories, noted scholar Kathleen Manning offers a multi-faceted take on the models and lenses through which higher education can be viewed.

Chapters discuss the disciplinary foundation, uses, constructs, and assumptions of each organizational theory, including theories often excluded from the literature like organized anarchy, feminist, loosely coupled systems, and queer theory. Each chapter concludes with a case study and discussion questions that encourage the reader to make connections to their practice. Combining theory and practice, Manning’s rich, interdisciplinary treatment enables leaders to gain a fuller understanding of the perspectives that operate on college campuses and ways to enact inclusive, ethical change in the context of new and continuing challenges.

New to this Edition:

• A new chapter on Queer Theory that presents more socially just approaches to institutional organization
• A new chapter on Loosely Coupled Systems presenting the application of this theory to higher education settings
• Revised chapters, updated theory, and new coverage that reflect current issues, such as pandemic, crisis responses, and social media
• Several new and revised case studies to address contemporary issues and align with current realities of higher education
• Updated and enhanced discussion questions to continue the conversation

Kathleen Manning is Professor Emerita of Higher Education and Student Affairs at the University of Vermont, USA.