Abstract

This article provides a conceptual and legal analysis of university autonomy as applied in Chile through the identification and analysis of three periods of higher education reform from 1981 to 2020. The main contribution of this study is the thorough analysis of a recent reform (Law No. 21.091) that profoundly changes both the regulations and the institutions that control hig¬her education establishments. So far, this reform has not been studied in the specialized literature. We conclude by pointing out that even when significant transformations have occurred in the higher education system, it is possible to identify common elements that have persisted as driving forces. The pre¬sent analysis belongs to the field of studies on law and political science and methodologically employs a bibliographical and normative review to analyze these trends and their impact on the national institutional fra¬mework and its evolution. Lastly, the article provides important historical cues at a time of ongoing national discussion, and highlights critical points to be further explored in forthcoming research.