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The demand for higher education in the 1990s
1Department of Social Statistics, University of Southampton, U.K.
Biochemical Society Transactions
|August 1, 1990
Summary
Declining birth rates in the UK during the 1970s will reduce school leavers in the 1990s. However, demand for higher education may not fall due to other influencing factors.
Area of Science:
- Social Sciences
- Demographics
- Education Policy
Background:
- The UK experienced a birth rate decline in the 1970s.
- This demographic shift implies fewer young individuals entering higher education in the 1990s.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze projections for higher education demand in the 1990s.
- To identify factors influencing demand beyond demographic changes.
- To explore strategies for institutions to maintain student numbers.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent projections for higher education demand.
- Analysis of demographic trends and their impact on student numbers.
- Discussion of factors affecting demand for higher education.
Main Results:
- Projections for higher education demand in the 1990s show significant variation.
- Demographic decline does not automatically equate to reduced demand for higher education.
- Uncertainties exist in forecasting future student intake.
Conclusions:
- Higher education institutions must consider factors beyond traditional student demographics.
- Universities and polytechnics may need to target diverse population groups to sustain enrollment.
- Strategic planning is crucial for institutions facing potential enrollment fluctuations.