Journal of Public Administration Research and Theory – Public Administration Journal Guide for Researchers

Why Researchers Choose Journal of Public Administration Research and Theory for High-Impact Publications

The Journal of Public Administration Research and Theory stands as a cornerstone in the field of public administration, providing a platform for groundbreaking research that shapes governance, policy, and organizational theory. Established in 1991 by Oxford University Press, this quarterly publication has evolved into one of the most respected outlets for scholars exploring the intricacies of public sector management, bureaucratic behavior, and theoretical advancements in administrative sciences. Its commitment to theoretical innovation and empirical rigor attracts researchers worldwide, fostering debates that influence both academic discourse and practical policymaking.

With a focus on interdisciplinary approaches, the journal bridges public administration with political science, sociology, and economics, ensuring that articles contribute to a deeper understanding of how public institutions function in diverse contexts. The editorial team emphasizes high-quality, original contributions that advance theoretical frameworks while addressing real-world challenges such as accountability, leadership, and public service delivery. Over the years, JPART has published seminal works that have redefined key concepts in the discipline, making it an essential read for graduate students, faculty, and policy analysts.

Researchers value JPART for its stringent peer-review process, which typically takes 3-6 months, ensuring that only the most robust studies see publication. The journal's hybrid open access model allows authors to reach broader audiences, enhancing citation potential and career advancement. As public administration faces evolving global issues like digital governance and equity in service provision, JPART remains at the forefront, inviting submissions that push boundaries.

For those considering submission, the journal's guidelines prioritize clarity, methodological soundness, and theoretical contribution. Explore opportunities in public administration through public administration faculty positions or consult the academic calendar for deadlines. Delve into Rate My Professor reviews for insights from peers, and check PhD programs in public administration to build your expertise.

Overview & History

The Journal of Public Administration Research and Theory was launched in 1991 to fill a gap in theoretical scholarship within public administration. Prior to its inception, the field lacked a dedicated outlet for theory-driven research, often overshadowed by more practitioner-focused journals. Founded under the auspices of Oxford University Press, JPART quickly gained traction by publishing articles that integrated theoretical models with empirical evidence, drawing from classics like Herbert Simon's administrative behavior and Woodrow Wilson's separation of politics and administration.

Over three decades, the journal has chronicled shifts in the discipline, from New Public Management in the 1990s to contemporary focuses on collaborative governance and behavioral public administration. Key milestones include special issues on topics like public sector innovation and the impact of globalization on administrative theory. Today, it boasts a global authorship base, with contributions from North America, Europe, and emerging regions, reflecting the internationalization of public administration studies.

Its history underscores a dedication to intellectual rigor, with editorial boards featuring luminaries who have shaped the field. This legacy positions JPART as a vital resource for understanding the evolution of public administration theory.

Scope and Disciplines Covered

The Journal of Public Administration Research and Theory encompasses a broad yet focused scope, emphasizing theoretical and empirical analyses of public organizations, policy processes, and administrative practices. It welcomes manuscripts that develop or test theories related to governance structures, decision-making, and institutional dynamics.

This multidisciplinary approach ensures comprehensive coverage, appealing to scholars across social sciences.

Key Journal Metrics

These metrics highlight JPART's influence, with high citation rates indicating its role in advancing knowledge.

Indexing and Abstracting

JPART is indexed in major databases, ensuring visibility for published research. It appears in Web of Science (Social Sciences Citation Index), Scopus, and Public Administration Abstracting Services. Additional coverage includes JSTOR for archival access and Google Scholar for broad dissemination. This indexing supports discoverability, aiding researchers in tracking citations and related works. For open access archiving, authors can use Sherpa/RoMEO-compliant repositories.

Publication Model and Fees

As a hybrid journal, JPART offers traditional subscription access alongside open access options. The standard model is subscription-based, with no fees for non-OA publication. For gold open access, authors pay an Article Processing Charge (APC) of £3,500 (approximately $4,500 USD), waivable for certain regions or hardships. Oxford University Press covers production costs through subscriptions, maintaining quality without mandatory fees. This model balances accessibility with sustainability.

Submission Process and Guidelines

Submissions are handled via the ScholarOne platform at the journal's official site. Authors must prepare manuscripts in double-spaced format, up to 10,000 words, with abstracts and keywords. Guidelines stress originality, ethical standards (e.g., IRB compliance), and APA-style references. Initial screening checks fit and quality, followed by double-blind peer review. Revisions are common, with decisions communicated within 3-6 months. Prepare by reviewing recent issues for style.

Editorial Board Highlights

The editorial board comprises distinguished scholars, led by Editor-in-Chief Barry M. Katz (University of California). Notable members include Patricia Ingram (University of California, Berkeley) for policy expertise and Donald Moynihan (Georgetown University) for behavioral insights. International representation from the UK, Australia, and Europe ensures diverse perspectives. Their collective experience in top institutions guides JPART's direction.

Why Publish in Journal of Public Administration Research and Theory?

Publishing in JPART elevates a researcher's profile due to its prestige and reach. The high impact factor translates to increased citations, crucial for tenure and grants. Rigorous review enhances manuscript quality, while global readership amplifies influence on policy. Compared to peers, JPART's theoretical focus distinguishes it, offering deeper intellectual engagement. Authors benefit from OUP's marketing and archiving, ensuring long-term accessibility.

Comparison with Similar Journals

JPART excels in theoretical depth, setting it apart for scholars seeking academic impact.

Researcher Tips for Successful Submission

To succeed with JPART, align your work with current calls, such as behavioral public administration. Ensure robust theory and methods; use mixed approaches for strength. Engage literature critically, avoiding descriptive pieces. Seek feedback pre-submission and adhere to word limits. Track progress via the portal and respond promptly to reviewers. For career growth, pair publication with tenure-track jobs in public administration. Utilize graduate school advising for skill-building.