Exploring the research landscape of AI in higher education (2020–2025): A bibliometric perspective.

Abstract

This study offers a comprehensive bibliometric and thematic review of research on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in higher education between 2020 and 2025. Its purpose is to map the intellectual structure of the field by analyzing publication patterns, identifying key contributors, and uncovering emerging themes. Data were retrieved from the Scopus database, resulting in 1,937 relevant documents.The analysis examined publications by year, source, country, subject area, authorship, and citation patterns. To explore relationships within the data, VOSviewer (version 1.6.15) was used to generate co-authorship, citation, and keyword mapping networks. Citation metrics were further assessed using Harzing’s Publish or Perish software, with additional evaluation conducted manually and through Microsoft Excel.Findings indicate a significant surge in AI-related research in higher education beginning in 2024, coinciding with the widespread adoption of generative AI tools such as ChatGPT. The United States, China, and the United Kingdom emerged as the most prolific contributors, while leading authors and institutions formed strong collaborative networks, signaling the rise of global research hubs. Thematic keyword analysis revealed growing attention to “machine learning,” “chatbots,” “academic integrity,” “adaptive learning,” and “learning analytics.” These themes suggest a shift toward AI-driven personalization in teaching and learning, while also reflecting increasing ethical concerns, particularly in relation to assessment and academic honesty.Overall, this study highlights how AI is reshaping higher education and provides an evidence-based foundation for future research, policy, and institutional strategy. By mapping the evolution of scholarship in this domain, it offers valuable insights into research priorities and emerging trends, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and supporting the responsible integration of AI technologies into higher education.