Participation of civil society institutions in the management of the higher education system in the United States

Abstract

The article analyzes the participation of civil society institutions in the management of the higher education system in the United States on the basis of a wide range of sources and the latest research. The author analyzes the federal legislation on higher education and the legislation of individual states. The study focuses on both the general federal system of higher education management and the management system at the state and higher education levels. At these levels, the participation, role, and forms of interaction between civil society institutions and governing bodies in the US higher education system are also analyzed. The paper also points to the general characteristics of higher education systems at the state level. Their general features and some differences are determined.

The author notes that one of the most important features of the higher education management system in the United States is that general policy, supervision, and even accreditation of higher education institutions remain decentralized. It is determined that civil society institutions (organizations, associations, foundations, etc.) interact with governing bodies at all levels of higher education management. It is proved that the federal legislation on higher education does not contain norms on the general management system, but is aimed mainly at financial grant support for both students and higher education institutions. State higher education management systems generally have a similar structure, in which legislators and executives organize state support and financial, planned coordination function. Public and private higher education institutions (colleges and universities) operate on the principles of broad autonomy. It is substantiated that at the university level, civil society institutions are also widely represented. Their representatives can be members of the board (regent’s council, coordinating council, board of trustees, etc.) and university senates.

At the level of higher education management, the alumni council plays an important role. They are often the main investors of higher education institutions, and sometimes are members of their boards of trustees. Stakeholders also play an important role in the management system of higher education.