ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the dilemmas of Latin American higher education. It also discusses higher education funding in the region; and presents a general view of growth of the private sector in the region. The chapter argues that the stratification of the higher education systems in Latin America. It analysis on how the stratification of higher education systems affects inequity and whether higher education can be defined as a public good. There are many ways to look at funding in higher education. It can be understood in terms of public expenditure, when the State provides a part or most of the funding. In the late 1960's and 1970's, private higher education systems became prominent in most Latin American countries. Higher education and science and technology development feed off each other. Higher education prepares future scientists and students who in turn develop science and create knowledge that makes higher education relevant, which is why the data on funding is so important.
