Proposing a Model for the Financial Independence of Universities and Higher Education Institutions (Case Study: Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran)

Abstract

This study was designed to propose a model for the financial independence of the Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran. To address the research question, a mixed-methods approach (qualitative and quantitative) was employed. In the qualitative phase, interviews were conducted with 13 experts from this university, leading to the extraction of components and the design of a questionnaire. In the quantitative phase, the questionnaire was distributed to another group (comprising 335 participants), based on which a model was developed consisting of six main dimensions or components and 65 items. Subsequent findings indicated that the designed model possesses satisfactory validity and reliability. The six main components of the proposed model include teamwork, extracurricular activities at the Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, shifts in approaches compared to the past, moving beyond the one-dimensionality of processes at this university, economic activities, and organizational affairs. According to the data, by making changes in each of these components, the Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, can achieve optimal financial independence.