University efficiency evaluation using data envelopment analysis: future research agenda

The evaluation of universities’ efficiency using data envelopment analysis is a robust research field, and many studies seek to improve the accuracy of the measures and the technique by incorporating new variables and expanding tests. In this study, we offer an integrative literature review aiming to describe the existing literature and synthesize individual research agendas into an integrated research agenda for the evaluation of university efficiency using DEA. Our study surveys publications on DEA from 2001 to 2023, considering 38 papers. This study confirms DEA as a robust methodology for evaluating university efficiency, highlighting the need for future research to integrate qualitative analyses, examine institutional goal alignment, and incorporate qualitative and environmental factors in the models. Such advancements would support evidence-based public policies and enable reliable, longitudinal assessments that inform decision-making in higher education management.