This papers develops an analytical framework under which variance in research policy outcomes at universities of applied sciences (UASs) is studied in comparative perspective. Varieties of capitalism theory and policy network approach are used and adapted to understand why institutional responses to research activities vary. The argument is that the institutional response is conditioned by institutional complementarities between the universities of applied sciences and other institutional systems in national contexts which make up the political economy of the nation State. The framework underpins some of the most relevant controversies in what concerns the two approaches and suggest their adaptation to studying institutions within higher education system in national contexts.

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