Summary
Students may face fewer course options at universities if these institutions cannot work together more closely. A report by Universities UK suggests that universities are hesitant to collaborate due to concerns about competition laws. However, such collaboration could help universities manage financial challenges and offer more course options.
Key Facts
- Universities UK represents 141 universities and conducted a review on collaboration.
- The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) oversees laws to protect competition but supports university collaboration amid financial struggles.
- A government review on the future funding of higher education is in progress in England.
- Some universities already collaborate to offer courses, helping students access programs locally.
- Joe Vincent, a mature student, benefits from course collaboration by studying pharmacy locally in Devon.
- Concerns about "cold spots" arise if universities have limited courses in certain regions.
- Legal advice currently discourages universities from consulting each other about course closures.
- International student numbers have fallen by 16% due to visa changes, affecting university income.
