News

Latest global higher education news on policy, research, and universities worldwide.

Birkbeck, University of London

Birkbeck to open Bengaluru campus as India expands global higher education access

· By Eleanor Shaw

Birkbeck, University of London is set to establish its first overseas campus in Bengaluru after receiving UGC approval, marking a major step in India’s push to attract global universities. The campus will offer University of London degrees at nearly 60% lower cost than in the UK while maintaining the same academic standards, with additional plans for scholarships and AI-integrated teaching. The move is expected to expand access to international education in India and strengthen India–UK higher education collaboration.

Door with Closed Sign
Finance

Hampshire College closure reflects wider strain on small liberal arts colleges

· By Eleanor Shaw

Hampshire College’s closure reflects a wider crisis in small liberal arts institutions, where declining enrolments and financial pressures are forcing a wave of closures and mergers. Despite its experimental model, the college could not overcome structural funding challenges, mirroring cases such as Marlboro College. The decision highlights a growing sector trend toward managed “teach-outs” and raises questions about the sustainability of institutional diversity in higher education.

China Great Wall
Policy, International

China signals new phase in transnational education reform

· By Eleanor Shaw

China has unveiled a significant package of reforms to its transnational education (TNE) framework, aiming to streamline approvals, expand institutional flexibility, and deepen global partnerships. The changes suggest a shift from controlled expansion toward more strategic, quality-driven international collaboration.