The Resurgence and Growth of Private Higher Education in China

This paper looks at the context, characteristics and definition of higher education in China, and the way in which private higher education is legitimized and implemented. This paper then explores the flourishing market economy and the policy of decentralization adopted by the Chinese leadership that has supported the emergence and growth of private higher education in China. It also explores the implications of such a change to diversity and equity within the national system. Ultimately, it is argued that Chinese higher education exemplifies the international tendency to privatize higher education as a way to meet enrollment and pursue financial incentives. With this highly instrumental approach, Chinas private higher education appears to have a negative effect on diversity and equity in the system