Historical dynamics of expansion of private universities in Argentina

Abstract

This study explores and reconstructs the historical dynamics that have driven the expansion of the private university sector in Argentina, as well as the evolution of its teaching staff. The main tensions that have arisen in the different cycles of Higher Education reform in the country are analyzed. The main factors that have influenced its growth or slowdown are identified from
its creation to the current consolidation, marked by changes in government and the influence of social sectors at different historical moments. Within the framework of the complex relationship between the State, the market and the university, highlighting how in recent decades there has been greater convergence between these actors. Initially, representatives of the Catholic religion mainly promoted the founding projects of the sector, but over time they diversified and expanded, involving other sectors of society, such as the military, executives, politicians, scientists and academics, who also sought to influence the creation of these institutions. The studies concludes that, although the private sector remains marginal in the Argentine university system, it has experienced constant growth and shows a heterogeneous composition in terms of the
characteristics and imprint of its institutions. Some of them have shown dynamism by adapting to current university policies. Likewise, through the recruitment of researchers and scholarship holders from the scientific and technological system, it has managed to establish itself as a reference in specific areas of knowledge within the national unive sity environment