Sociological Cultural Studies

Sociological Cultural Studies

A Comparative Study of the Principles Governing Academic Regulation in the Legal Systems of Iran and Selected Countries

Document Type : .

Authors
Seyed Ahmad Habibnezhad 1
Mohammad Reza Rafeei 2
Hamid Reza Rahmani 3
1 Associate Professor, Department of Public Law and International Law. Faculty of Law. University of Tehran (College of Farabi). Qom. Iran
2 Ph.D in Public Law, Faculty of Law, University of Tehran (College of Farabi), Qom, Iran,
3 Department of Public Law and International Law, Faculty of Law, University of Tehran (College of Farabi), Qom, Iran
10.30465/scs.2024.50513.2946
Abstract
Introduction
University regulation is a cornerstone of higher education management, designed to ensure quality education, equitable access, and institutional efficiency. University Boards of Trustees, as the highest decision-making bodies, play a crucial role in policy-making and oversight. This paper provides a comparative analysis of university regulation principles in selected countries (United States, United Kingdom, France, Italy, Germany) and Iran's legal framework. Findings reveal that key principles such as institutional autonomy, transparency, accountability, participation, and efficiency strengthen university governance in selected countries. Conversely, Iran faces challenges like financial dependence on the government, centralized decision-making, and insufficient oversight, undermining university autonomy and effectiveness.
Materials & Methods
The study employs a comparative legal analysis, examining university governance structures in selected countries and Iran. Primary and secondary data were collected from legal texts, academic literature, and case studies. Emphasis was placed on identifying principles of governance, institutional autonomy, and regulatory frameworks to highlight similarities, differences, and implications for policy improvement.
Discussion & Results
The comparative study revealed significant differences in university regulation. Selected countries prioritize institutional autonomy, transparency, and participatory decision-making, enabling universities to function effectively and independently. For instance, the United States and the United Kingdom grant extensive financial and operational autonomy to their Boards of Trustees, ensuring accountability through stringent oversight mechanisms. France and Italy adopt a semi-autonomous approach, balancing state control and university self-governance. Germany's federal structure allows regional adaptation while upholding national standards. In contrast, Iranian university governance is hindered by centralized decision-making, government dependency, and politically influenced appointments. These challenges restrict the autonomy and strategic capabilities of Boards of Trustees. Moreover, the absence of specialized oversight weakens the regulatory impact, limiting advancements in global competitiveness and quality assurance. Addressing these issues through structural reforms could enhance the effectiveness of Iran's higher education system.
Conclusion
University regulation is integral to fostering innovation, equity, and excellence in higher education. Boards of Trustees play a pivotal role in aligning institutional goals with legal and societal expectations. The study highlights the superiority of governance models in selected countries, where autonomy, transparency, accountability, and participatory governance underpin robust university systems. These principles enable institutions to adapt dynamically, ensuring global competitiveness and institutional sustainability. Iran's governance model requires urgent reform to address its systemic challenges. Enhancing financial independence, revising member selection processes, and establishing specialized oversight can empower Boards of Trustees. By integrating global best practices while respecting national contexts, Iran can transition from centralized control to a participatory, efficient governance model. Such reforms are essential for aligning Iran's universities with international standards, fostering academic excellence, and contributing to national development.
Keywords
Academic independence
Transparency
Academic efficiency
Financial independence
Academic regulation
Board of trustees
Subjects
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Sociological Cultural Studies
Volume 17, Issue 1 - Serial Number 59
Spring 2026
Spring 2026
Pages 77-113

  • Receive Date 23 November 2024
  • Revise Date 15 December 2024
  • Accept Date 15 December 2024
  • Publish Date 22 May 2026