Building a national system of research and graduate education: how did the university become the house of science in Brazil?

Abstract

The Brazilian science system is a direct result of decades of consistent public policy connecting research and education in ways that are unprecedented in the world. As a unique outcome, most of the science conducted in Brazil takes place within a National System of Graduate Education (SNPG), mainly installed in the country's universities. The present study seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of the system's conception, investigating conjunctures and policy decisions shaping its evolution. Furthermore, the paper will also provide a panorama of the SNPG today: how large is the system; how is it organised and distributed across the country; what are the characteristics of the faculty and student body, and more. The results of this study are essential for Brazilian academics and policymakers, but the unique approach to science and highlevel education in Brazil can serve as an inspiration for the international community, both from its successes and failures.

Keywords

• science policy
• public policy
• graduate education