Universities as multinational enterprises? The multinational university analyzed through the eclectic paradigm

Purpose The aim of this paper is to examine the emergence of multinational universities through the lens of Dunning’s eclectic paradigm. Design/methodology/approach An analytical framework combining the eclectic paradigm with the three missions of universities is proposed to explore the motives behind the cross-border activity of universities. Findings Although the analogy between a university and a multinational enterprise is flawed, this paper shows how the eclectic paradigm can still serve the purpose of better understanding why universities locate fully pledged campuses or research departments in foreign locations. A set of implications for universities and host countries are also discussed. Originality/value The internationalization of universities has been widely analyzed in the higher education literature, but few attempts have been made to draw connections with international business research. The originality of this paper lies in addressing this cross-disciplinary gap.