Administration & Society – Public Administration Journal Guide for Researchers

Why Researchers Choose Administration & Society for High-Impact Publications

Administration & Society stands as a cornerstone in the field of public administration, offering a platform for scholars to publish rigorous, peer-reviewed research that shapes governance, policy, and organizational theory. Established in 1969 by SAGE Publications, this journal has built a reputation for excellence, attracting contributions from leading academics worldwide. With a focus on interdisciplinary approaches, Administration & Society explores the complexities of administrative processes, public sector management, and societal impacts of policy decisions. Its commitment to high standards ensures that articles undergo thorough blind peer review, resulting in publications that influence both academic discourse and practical applications in government and nonprofits.

The journal's appeal lies in its broad yet targeted scope, covering topics from bureaucratic behavior to ethical leadership in public institutions. Researchers value Administration & Society for its accessibility to diverse audiences, including policymakers and practitioners. The publication's integration into major indexing services like Scopus and Web of Science amplifies visibility, helping authors reach global readers. For those navigating the competitive landscape of academic publishing, submitting to Administration & Society offers a pathway to credible citations and career advancement. Its hybrid model balances traditional subscription access with open access options, making research widely available without compromising quality.

In an era where public administration faces evolving challenges like digital governance and equity issues, Administration & Society remains relevant by prioritizing innovative methodologies and theoretical advancements. Scholars appreciate the journal's emphasis on empirical studies that bridge theory and practice, fostering dialogues on sustainable public service delivery. Whether examining federal systems or local administrations, contributions here drive forward-thinking solutions. To explore opportunities in public administration careers, visit our public administration jobs section for the latest openings.

Overview & History

Administration & Society was founded in 1969 to address the growing need for scholarly analysis in public administration amid post-World War II bureaucratic expansions. Published by SAGE Publications, it has evolved from a quarterly to a bimonthly journal, reflecting increased demand for its insights. Over five decades, it has chronicled shifts in administrative theory, from New Public Management to contemporary networked governance. Key milestones include special issues on globalization's impact on public sectors and the role of administration in social justice movements. Today, it serves as a vital resource for understanding how administrative structures adapt to societal changes, with over 50 volumes archived for historical reference.

Scope and Disciplines Covered

Administration & Society encompasses a wide array of topics within public administration, emphasizing theoretical and empirical research on organizational dynamics, policy implementation, and administrative ethics. It welcomes interdisciplinary submissions that intersect with political science, sociology, and management studies. The journal prioritizes articles that advance knowledge on public sector innovation, leadership, and accountability.

Key Journal Metrics

Administration & Society maintains strong performance indicators that underscore its influence in the field. Metrics are sourced from Clarivate Journal Citation Reports and Scopus, highlighting citation trends and publication efficiency.

Indexing and Abstracting

Administration & Society is indexed in prestigious databases, ensuring broad discoverability. It appears in Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus, and EBSCOhost, facilitating access for researchers globally. Additional coverage includes ProQuest and JSTOR for archival purposes. These indexations enhance citation potential and support comprehensive literature reviews in public administration studies.

Publication Model and Fees

As a hybrid journal, Administration & Society offers both subscription-based and open access publishing. Traditional articles are behind a paywall, while authors can opt for gold open access by paying an Article Processing Charge (APC) of approximately $3,000 USD, covering peer review and dissemination. SAGE's green open access policy allows self-archiving in repositories after an embargo period. No fees apply for non-open access submissions, making it accessible for early-career researchers.

Submission Process and Guidelines

Submissions to Administration & Society are handled via SAGE's online portal, ScholarOne Manuscripts. Authors must prepare manuscripts in APA style, with abstracts under 150 words and keywords limited to six. Double-blind review requires anonymized files, and ethical compliance follows COPE guidelines. Initial decisions take 4-6 weeks, with revisions possible. Detailed guidelines are available on the journal's homepage, emphasizing originality and relevance to administrative theory.

Editorial Board Highlights

The editorial team at Administration & Society comprises distinguished scholars from top institutions. Editor-in-Chief Norma M. Riccucci from Rutgers University brings expertise in public management and equity. Associate editors include specialists in policy analysis from the University of Kentucky and organizational theory from the University of Colorado. This diverse board ensures balanced, high-quality oversight, drawing from U.S. and international perspectives to maintain the journal's global relevance.

Why Publish in Administration & Society?

Publishing in Administration & Society elevates researchers' profiles through its rigorous standards and wide readership. The journal's impact factor of 3.2 signals prestige, aiding tenure and grant applications. Interdisciplinary appeal attracts citations across fields, while timely topics like administrative responses to crises keep content current. Authors benefit from SAGE's marketing, including alerts and social media promotion. For career resources, check Rate My Professor to connect with mentors in public administration.

Comparison with Similar Journals

Administration & Society competes with key peers in public administration, each offering unique strengths. This comparison highlights differences in focus, metrics, and accessibility.

Researcher Tips for Successful Submission

To succeed with Administration & Society submissions, align your work with current calls, such as administrative ethics in digital eras. Use robust data and clear implications for practice. Engage reviewers by addressing gaps in literature early. Network via conferences and follow academic calendar for deadlines. Revise based on feedback to strengthen arguments. For job opportunities post-publication, explore higher ed jobs. Additional tips include collaborating internationally and leveraging open access for visibility.

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