- Foundation and Growth: Laureate International Universities was founded in 1998. The network grew rapidly through acquisitions and partnerships, eventually encompassing over 25 institutions across various countries.
- Mission: Laureate’s mission is to expand access to high-quality education, preparing students for successful careers in a global economy. The network focuses on providing practical, career-oriented programs and fostering an international perspective.
Global Network
- Institutions: The network includes universities and higher education institutions in the Americas, Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Some notable institutions within the network include Universidad del Valle de México, Universidade Anhembi Morumbi in Brazil, and Universidad Europea in Spain.
- Students: Laureate serves more than 875,000 students worldwide, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees in a wide range of disciplines including business, engineering, health sciences, hospitality, and more.
Academic Programs
- Diverse Offerings: Laureate institutions offer a variety of programs tailored to local markets, including traditional degree programs, online education, and hybrid models combining online and on-campus learning.
- Accreditation: Institutions within the network are accredited by local and international accreditation bodies, ensuring that the education provided meets high standards of quality.
Social Impact
- Commitment to Social Responsibility: Laureate emphasizes social responsibility and aims to make a positive impact on communities. This includes initiatives such as the Laureate Global Fellowship and support for social entrepreneurship.
- Public Benefit Corporation: In 2015, Laureate Education, Inc. became the first Public Benefit Corporation (PBC) publicly traded on a U.S. stock exchange. This designation underscores the company’s commitment to positive social and educational outcomes.
Key Developments
- Leadership and Management: Laureate has undergone various leadership changes to strengthen its strategic direction and operational effectiveness. This includes appointing experienced educators and business leaders to its executive team.
- Financial Performance and Ownership: Laureate has transitioned from a publicly traded company to private ownership. In 2021, the company completed the sale of several institutions and refocused its efforts on its core markets.
Challenges and Criticisms
- Regulatory Scrutiny: Like many large educational networks, Laureate has faced regulatory scrutiny and challenges related to the quality and financial aspects of its operations.
- Market Adaptation: Adapting to diverse educational markets and maintaining consistent quality across institutions have been ongoing challenges for the network.
Conclusion
Laureate International Universities represents one of the largest and most diverse networks of higher education institutions globally. Through its emphasis on accessible, high-quality education and its commitment to social impact, Laureate aims to prepare students for success in a globalized world. Despite facing challenges, the network continues to play a significant role in the higher education landscape.