Signals of Distress: A Global Wave of University and College Closures

Authors

  • Eldho Mathews
  • Philip G. Altbach

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.6017/ihe.2025.125.21021

Abstract

The complex and difficult issue of university and college closures has received little attention but is of great importance, as many institutions do fail and close. The reasons are many, including demographic declines, leadership or governance failure, financial crisis, and others. Most vulnerable are private institutions, with warning signs including declining admissions, program cuts, and various governance issues. This crisis demands attention from academic communities and regulators to ensure institutional sustainability and quality.

Author Biographies

Eldho Mathews

Eldho Mathews is program officer for internationalization at the Kerala State Higher Education Council, India. E-mail: eldhomathews@gmail.com.

Philip G. Altbach

Philip G. Altbach is professor emeritus and distinguished fellow, Center for International Higher Education, Boston College, United States. E-mail: altbach@bc.edu.

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Published

2025-12-16

How to Cite

Mathews , E., & Altbach, P. (2025). Signals of Distress: A Global Wave of University and College Closures. International Higher Education, (125). https://doi.org/10.6017/ihe.2025.125.21021

Issue

Section

Articles