Is European higher education socially balanced?

Europe is proud of its 'social policies', in higher education as much as in other parts of society. The Bologna Process has made the social dimension one of its cornerstones, and has set itself the goal that "the student body entering, participating in and completing higher education should reflect the diversity of our populations". Is this only rhetoric? Some fear it is. The 2009 Stocktaking Report comes to the conclusion that it is not the "ability to learn but the ability to pay" which determines participation in higher education.

This ACA European Policy Seminar is intended to assess the reality behind the rhetoric. Is European higher education accessible for students from weaker socio-economic backgrounds, for students from migrant families, with disabilities or with family obligations? Do our universities and governments have the right policies and instruments in place when it comes to access, retention, and diversity? Do we provide enough funding to make participation in higher education socially balanced, and do we fund the right things?

This seminar features leading researchers, practitioners and policy-makers in the area of the social dimension. It will present the latest research findings on the issue, new policy initiatives and institutional case examples. One not to be missed.

To view the programme, click here.

The ACA team