Why Researchers Choose Administration & Society for High-Impact Publications
Administration & Society has established itself as a cornerstone in the field of public administration since its inception in 1969. Published by SAGE Publications, this bimonthly journal delves into the complexities of administrative theory, organizational behavior, and public policy implementation. Researchers are drawn to its commitment to interdisciplinary approaches that bridge political science, sociology, and management studies. The journal's rigorous peer-review process ensures that only high-quality, innovative research sees publication, contributing to its solid reputation among academics worldwide.
One key attraction is the journal's focus on contemporary issues such as bureaucratic reform, ethical governance, and the intersection of administration with social equity. With an impact factor of 2.917 as reported in the 2022 Journal Citation Reports, Administration & Society provides a platform where scholars can amplify their work's visibility and citation potential. Its hybrid open access model allows authors to choose traditional subscription-based publishing or opt for immediate open access, broadening the audience for their findings. This flexibility is particularly valuable for early-career researchers aiming to build their portfolios in competitive academic environments.
The journal's editorial board, comprising experts from leading institutions, upholds standards of excellence while encouraging diverse perspectives. Submissions are evaluated not just for methodological soundness but also for their potential to influence policy and practice. For those navigating the academic job market, publishing here signals expertise in administrative studies, often highlighted in public administration jobs. Moreover, the journal's inclusion in major indexing services like Scopus and Web of Science ensures long-term accessibility and impact measurement.
Beyond metrics, Administration & Society fosters a community of thought leaders. Regular special issues on timely topics, such as digital governance or administrative ethics in crises, provide opportunities for targeted contributions. Researchers appreciate the detailed author guidelines that streamline the submission process, from manuscript preparation to revisions. As the field evolves with global challenges like sustainability and inequality, this journal remains relevant by publishing cutting-edge analyses that inform both theory and real-world applications.
To explore how your research aligns with Administration & Society, review the government policy jobs landscape or consult resources on Rate My Professor for faculty insights. For planning your publication timeline, check the academic calendar. Submitting to this esteemed journal could be the next step in advancing your career—visit the official site to begin.
Overview & History
Founded in 1969, Administration & Society emerged during a period of significant administrative reforms in the United States and beyond. Initially published by Sage under the guidance of founding editor Dwight Waldo, it aimed to provide a forum for critical discussions on public administration's role in society. Over the decades, the journal has evolved to address globalization, technological advancements, and shifting governance paradigms. Today, it publishes original articles, research notes, and book reviews that challenge conventional wisdom and propose new frameworks for understanding administrative phenomena.
The journal's history reflects broader trends in social sciences, from the New Public Management movement in the 1990s to contemporary emphases on collaborative governance. Key milestones include its indexing in the Social Sciences Citation Index in 1975, which boosted its academic credibility. Editors like Camilla Stivers and Barry O'Toole have shaped its direction, emphasizing feminist perspectives and ethical dilemmas in administration. With over 50 volumes, Administration & Society continues to serve as a vital resource for scholars, policymakers, and practitioners interested in the dynamics of public organizations.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
Administration & Society encompasses a broad spectrum of topics within public administration and related fields. Its scope includes theoretical explorations of bureaucracy, empirical studies on policy implementation, and critical analyses of administrative power structures. The journal welcomes interdisciplinary submissions that integrate insights from political theory, organizational sociology, and public management. Particular emphasis is placed on issues of equity, accountability, and innovation in governance.
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Public Administration | Core focus on organizational theory, leadership, and reform. |
| Political Science | Examinations of policy processes and governmental institutions. |
| Sociology | Studies on social impacts of administrative decisions. |
| Management Studies | Applications of business principles to public sector efficiency. |
| Public Policy | Analyses of policy design, evaluation, and outcomes. |
This multidisciplinary approach ensures that articles resonate across academia and practice, making it a go-to for comprehensive administrative scholarship.
Key Journal Metrics
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor | 2.917 | Clarivate JCR 2022 |
| CiteScore | 5.4 | Scopus 2022 |
| SJR | 1.212 | Scopus 2022 |
| h-Index | 72 | Scopus |
| Acceptance Rate | Not publicly disclosed | N/A |
These metrics highlight the journal's influence, with steady growth in citations reflecting its relevance in ongoing debates.
Indexing and Abstracting
Administration & Society is widely indexed, ensuring discoverability. It appears in Scopus, Web of Science (SSCI), and EBSCO databases. For open access visibility, it's also in Google Scholar and ProQuest. Researchers can access abstracts via Scopus or the official journal homepage at https://journals.sagepub.com/home/aas. This coverage supports comprehensive literature reviews and enhances article impact.
Publication Model and Fees
As a hybrid journal, Administration & Society offers subscription access with an option for open access. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for gold open access is $3,040 USD, covering peer review and dissemination. SAGE provides waivers for authors from low-income countries. Subscription rates vary by institution, promoting equitable access to knowledge in administrative studies.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Manuscripts are submitted online via SAGE's ScholarOne platform. Guidelines specify double-spaced formatting, 8,000-word limit, and APA style references. Initial reviews take about 45 days, with decisions communicated promptly. Authors should anonymize submissions for blind review. For detailed steps, consult research positions resources or the journal's site.
Editorial Board Highlights
The editorial team includes Editor-in-Chief Richard C. Box from the University of Nebraska, alongside associate editors from Harvard and Oxford. This diverse board brings expertise in comparative administration and public ethics, ensuring balanced evaluations. Their global representation underscores the journal's international scope.
Why Publish in Administration & Society?
Publishing here offers prestige and networking opportunities. With a focus on actionable research, articles often influence policy discussions. The journal's readership includes top academics and administrators, amplifying your work's reach. For career advancement, see how it fits into administrative roles.
Comparison with Similar Journals
| Journal | Impact Factor | Focus | Publisher |
|---|---|---|---|
| Administration & Society | 2.917 | Administrative theory and policy | SAGE |
| Public Administration Review | 6.862 | Public management practice | Wiley |
| Journal of Public Administration Research and Theory | 8.273 | Empirical public admin research | Oxford |
| Governance | 3.889 | Comparative governance | Wiley |
| Public Management Review | 4.500 | Performance and reform | Taylor & Francis |
This comparison shows Administration & Society's strong position in theoretical depth amid peers emphasizing practice.
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
- Align your abstract with current calls, like governance innovations.
- Use robust methods; mixed-methods are favored.
- Engage with recent issues for literature gaps.
- Seek feedback before submitting via tenure-track positions networks.
- Prepare for revisions; response rates improve outcomes.
- Highlight policy implications for broader appeal.
Incorporate these strategies to enhance acceptance chances. For more, explore policy analyst jobs or academic calendar deadlines.