Have public universities in Germany become more isomorphic? Methodology and empirical test, 1995–2020

Abstract Despite being a well-known concept in neo-institutional organization theory, isomorphism (or structural similarity) has been conceptualized and empirically examined by very few studies. This paper examines isomorphism quantitatively in German higher education, using the Relative Specialization Index. Drawing on a comprehensive data set that includes information on professorial staff and students, as well as basic and grant funding, our paper shows, first, that most variables show an isomorphic pattern, and second, that German universities have become more isomorphic over time. We discuss possible explanations of this result and avenues for future research.