Regional Universities and International Joint Universities: Collaborative Models

This book offers an in-depth analysis of two collaborative models of international higher education institutions: international joint universities (IJUs) and supranational regional universities (RUs). They are based on close partnerships among countries and institutions and thus differ from the single state university model as well as international branch campuses or franchise universities.

Key features of these institutions are examined through the use of conceptual frameworks and ten in-depth case studies from all regions of the world. Distinguishing characteristics such as shared governance and management practices; collaborative academic programs and the development of joint laboratories, research networks, and centers of excellence are analyzed. A study of the driving rationales for IJUs and RUs reveals commonalities and stark differences. While international joint universities are commonly single campus institutions, regional universities can be single, multiple campus or virtual. IJUs and RUs are understudied phenomena as more attention and research is focused on the rise of international branch campuses. Academic leaders, policy makers, higher education scholars and students will benefit from the analysis of the key features, rationales and benefits of international collaborative university models and how they can contribute to 1) providing increased and diversified access to education, 2) promote regional identity and facilitate bilateral and regional collaboration for education, research and innovation; 3) contribute to stronger regional and international relations between countries through knowledge diplomacy; and 4) address contemporary global and regional issues. At the same time, it is important to acknowledge potential risks and uncertainties related to quality assurance, qualification recognition, financial stability, research integrity, knowledge security, and sustainability that can be linked to collaborative models of international higher education institutions.

Professor Jane Knight of the University of Toronto, Canada, and research associate at the University of Johannesburg, South Africa, is a long-term scholar of the international, intercultural and global dimensions of international higher education and its role in international relations. Her work in over 75 countries brings a comparative, development and international perspective to her research, teaching and policy work. She sits on the advisory boards of several international organizations, universities, and journals and is the author of over 150 academic publications including her most recent book entitled Knowledge Diplomacy in International Relations and Higher Education (2022). She holds a PhD in Higher Education and a PhD in Political Science and is the recipient of many international awards including three honorary doctorates.