Higher Education with the Fourth Industrial Revolution: A Bibliometric Exploration of Global Research Trends

Abstract

The rapid advancement of Industry 4.0 technologies has prompted significant transformations in higher education, yet scholarly engagement with this intersection remains fragmented. This study conducts a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of 266 Scopus-indexed publications from 2016 to 2025 to map the intellectual structure, thematic evolution, and citation trends of research on higher education in the context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Key findings reveal a steady increase in research output, peaking in 2023, with dominant contributions emerging from disciplines such as computer science, engineering, and social sciences. Thematic analysis identified core research clusters including digital learning, curriculum reform, institutional transformation, and the integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and virtual reality. Keyword evolution mapping shows a progression from early emphasis on e-learning tools toward systemic digital transformation and employability-focused educational models. While the field has matured, the results highlight a limited integration of sustainability, policy frameworks, and ethical concerns. This study not only synthesises past and current research trends but also proposes future research directions aimed at enhancing the alignment of educational innovation with the evolving demands of Industry 4.0.