What is quality in the Napoleonic model of higher education? The perception of the deans of French public universities

Purpose This article examines quality in the context of the Napoleonic model of higher education through the eyes of deans of French public universities. Design/methodology/approach To gather data for our research, we conducted in-depth interviews with 13 deans of French public universities. Findings The motivation for implementing quality systems in French public universities is primarily driven by centralised regulations and affiliation with academic networks. Standards-based continuous improvement may be at odds with the Napoleonic model, as regulatory control does not give deans the flexibility to tailor their quality management approach. Originality/value This article advances understanding of quality in higher education by focusing on deans as quality management decision-makers and on an explanatory model of higher education that has received little attention in the literature.