A discussion of new financing models for Spain's public universities first looks at recent institutional changes; the evolution of the university system over the last decade in terms of student, financial, and human resources; its situation within the international context; student demand; graduate output; and labor market demand for graduates.…

The validity of proposed solutions to British higher education problems that would substitute competition and market mechanisms for the existing system of free education are discussed in the context of recent European experiences, the postsecondary education population, the education-employment equilibrium, and socioeconomic patterns. (MSE)

Institutions wishing to increase the perceived value of their degrees or awards do so by increasing demand for those degrees, by stimulating applications for admission (the certifying effect) and even reducing graduates. Receipt of one of these degrees increases chances of success and affluence (the consumer effect). (MSE)

It is suggested that the weakened demand for Master's in Business Administration (MBA) programs represents an overdue adjustment in expectations. Pressure to reduce student experience requirements and fees is anticipated. A brief history of the degree in the United States and the United Kingdom is provided. (Author/MSE)

Discussion of the pressures for expansion in Norwegian higher education looks at both long-term trends (need for a better-educated workforce and rising level in parents' education) and current demographic, individual, and political forces (a deteriorating labor market, younger students, competition for admission). Whether this situation is unique…