Are university rankings solely driving the demand for PhDs and publications?

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University Rankings Are a Significant Driver, Alongside Regulatory Requirements, for the Demand for PhDs and Publications in Malaysian Universities

While university rankings play a substantial role in driving the demand for PhDs and publications among Malaysian universities, they are not the sole factor. The Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) has also implemented a new rule, introduced two to three years ago, mandating PhD qualifications for new academic hires. This dual pressure from regulatory bodies and the pursuit of higher international standing significantly shapes hiring practices.
MQA Mandates PhD Qualifications for Academic Staff

A relatively recent directive from the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) has made holding a PhD a near-necessity for individuals seeking employment in Malaysian universities. This rule, implemented within the last two to three years, dictates that academic candidates must possess a PhD, often in a field directly related to the position they are applying for, to be considered for hiring. This policy can create barriers for experienced educators who may hold master's degrees or have extensive practical experience but lack the specific doctoral qualification.
Private Institutions Leverage Publications for International Rankings

Many private higher education institutions have adopted stringent requirements for academic publications and a high H-index among their staff. This approach is directly linked to enhancing their standing in global university rankings, such as those compiled by QS and Times Higher Education. A higher number of faculty members with impressive publication records and H-indices is perceived as a key metric for improving these rankings.
Improved Rankings Translate to Increased Student Enrollment and Revenue

The pursuit of higher international rankings is not merely an academic exercise for Malaysian universities; it carries tangible financial implications. Improved global rankings are observed to attract a greater number of students, particularly international students, to these institutions. This influx of students directly translates into increased revenue streams, underscoring the monetary significance of institutional prestige derived from rankings.
The Dual Criteria Can Potentially Impact Teaching Quality

The emphasis on both PhD qualifications and publication records as primary hiring criteria raises questions about the potential impact on the quality of teaching. While these criteria aim to ensure academic rigor, they may inadvertently exclude highly effective educators and communicators who possess strong pedagogical skills but may not have a PhD or a substantial publication history. This can lead to a situation where candidates are overlooked not due to a lack of teaching ability, but because they do not meet these specific, and potentially narrow, academic benchmarks.

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Are university rankings solely driving the demand for PhDs and publications?

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