STRATEGIC ADMINISTRATIVE MANAGEMENT IN THE QUALITY OF HIGHER EDUCATION: A CRITICAL REVIEW OF THE INTERNATIONAL LITERATURE

Abstract

This article examines the influence of administrative management models on the enhancement of educational service quality in higher education institutions. The study is based on a bibliographic review of peer-reviewed scientific literature published between 2017 and 2025 in the Scopus and SciELO databases. A total of 29 studies were analyzed, addressing key dimensions such as process management, quality assurance, institutional leadership, administrative digitalization, working conditions, and organizational climate. The findings indicate that efficient management—anchored in strategic leadership, continuous evaluation, and the integration of technological tools—has a positive impact on student satisfaction, academic performance, and institutional equity. Notable models such as TQM, EFQM, ISO 9001, and TRFQ are recognized for their contributions, while their contextual limitations are also acknowledged. Persistent challenges include regulatory fragmentation, resistance to innovation, and insufficient managerial training.

The study concludes that strengthening administrative management through participatory, ethical, and results-oriented practices is essential for building resilient and inclusive universities with a strong commitment to social responsibility. Finally, implications for educational policy and future research are discussed, with a particular focus on Latin American contexts.