Why Researchers Choose Administration & Society for High-Impact Publications
Administration & Society stands as a cornerstone in the field of public administration, offering researchers a prestigious platform to disseminate groundbreaking work on governance, policy implementation, and organizational dynamics. Established in 1969, this bimonthly journal, published by SAGE Publications, has built a reputation for rigorous scholarship that bridges theory and practice. With a focus on empirical and theoretical contributions, it attracts submissions from scholars worldwide, emphasizing innovative approaches to administrative challenges in contemporary societies.
The journal's appeal lies in its interdisciplinary scope, encompassing public administration, political science, sociology, and management. Researchers value its commitment to high standards, evidenced by a selective peer-review process that ensures only the most impactful studies are published. In an era where visibility and citation metrics drive academic careers, Administration & Society provides the prestige needed for career advancement. Its inclusion in top indexing services like Scopus and Web of Science amplifies reach, connecting authors with global audiences.
For those navigating the academic job market, publishing here signals expertise and dedication. Explore opportunities in higher education jobs or tenure-track positions to complement your research profile. The journal's hybrid open access model allows flexibility in dissemination, while its editorial board, comprising leading experts, offers constructive feedback. Whether you're a PhD candidate or established professor, submitting to Administration & Society can enhance your scholarly footprint. Delve into its history and metrics to see why it's a top choice for impactful publications.
To get started on your academic journey, check out the PhD programs guide or plan your timeline with our academic calendar. Ready to submit? Visit the official site for guidelines.
Overview & History
Administration & Society was founded in 1969 by SAGE Publications, emerging during a pivotal time in public administration scholarship when interdisciplinary approaches were gaining traction. Initially focused on administrative theory and practice in the United States, it quickly expanded to include global perspectives on governance. Over the decades, the journal has evolved to address contemporary issues such as public sector reform, ethical leadership, and the impact of technology on administration.
Key milestones include its early adoption of empirical methods in the 1970s, which set it apart from more theoretical outlets. By the 1990s, it had established itself as a Q1 journal in public administration, with consistent growth in submissions and citations. Today, under the guidance of Editor-in-Chief Jos C.N. Raadschelders, it publishes six issues annually, featuring articles, book reviews, and special symposia on pressing topics like crisis management and equity in public service.
The journal's enduring relevance stems from its ability to adapt to societal changes, from neoliberal reforms to the challenges of digital governance. Researchers appreciate its historical depth, which provides a foundation for current debates. For career-minded scholars, reviewing past issues can inspire submission strategies aligned with trending themes.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
Administration & Society welcomes manuscripts that advance understanding of administrative processes, organizational behavior, and policy outcomes across public and nonprofit sectors. It prioritizes original research that integrates theory with real-world applications, avoiding purely descriptive work.
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Public Administration | Core focus on governance structures, bureaucratic efficiency, and public policy implementation. |
| Political Science | Explores intersections with politics, including administrative roles in democratic processes. |
| Sociology | Examines social dynamics in administrative settings, such as inequality and organizational culture. |
| Management | Covers leadership, human resources, and performance management in public organizations. |
Submissions should demonstrate methodological rigor, whether qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods. The journal encourages comparative studies and those addressing underrepresented regions.
Key Journal Metrics
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor (2023) | 3.2 | Clarivate Journal Citation Reports |
| 5-Year Impact Factor | 3.5 | Clarivate JCR |
| CiteScore | 5.8 | Scopus |
| h-Index | 78 | Scopus |
| Acceptance Rate | Approximately 15-20% | Publisher data |
These metrics highlight the journal's influence, with steady growth in citations over the past five years. Researchers track them via scholarship search tools to benchmark their work.
Indexing and Abstracting
Administration & Society is indexed in leading databases, ensuring broad discoverability. It appears in Web of Science (SSCI), Scopus, and EBSCOhost, among others. This coverage facilitates high visibility, with abstracts available through ProQuest and JSTOR. For open access enthusiasts, it's also in DOAJ-eligible categories, though primarily subscription-based.
Authors benefit from these indexings for tenure dossiers, as they signal quality. Check graduate school guides for how such publications boost applications.
Publication Model and Fees
The journal operates a hybrid model, offering traditional subscription access alongside open access options. Article Processing Charges (APCs) for gold open access are $3,000 USD, waivable for corresponding authors from low-income countries per SAGE's policy. No fees for non-OA submissions.
Page charges are not applied, making it accessible for early-career researchers. Review Sherpa/RoMEO for self-archiving rights, which allow preprint deposits.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Manuscripts are submitted via SAGE's ScholarOne platform at the official journal site. Guidelines require double-anonymized review, with articles limited to 8,000-10,000 words. Include abstracts (150 words), keywords, and compliance with APA style.
Average review time is 3-4 months, with decisions communicated promptly. Revisions are common, emphasizing clarity and contribution. For tips, consult postdoc opportunities resources that overlap with publication strategies.
Editorial Board Highlights
The board features international experts, including Editor-in-Chief Jos C.N. Raadschelders (University of Oklahoma) and Associate Editors from Europe and Asia. Notable members include Patricia M. Shields (Texas State University) for methodological expertise and Hellmut Wollmann (Humboldt University) for comparative administration.
This diverse team ensures balanced perspectives, enhancing the journal's global appeal. Engaging with board members via conferences can inform submission topics.
Why Publish in Administration & Society?
Publishing here offers prestige, with articles cited in policy reports and curricula. It fosters networks through symposia and boosts CVs for higher ed jobs. The journal's focus on practical implications appeals to practitioner-academics, while its metrics support grant applications.
- High visibility via SAGE's platform
- Rigorous yet supportive review
- Opportunities for special issues
- Alignment with career goals, including rate my professor enhancements
Comparison with Similar Journals
| Journal | Impact Factor | Focus | Publisher |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Administration Review | 6.1 | Broad public admin practice | Wiley |
| Journal of Public Administration Research and Theory | 7.2 | Theory and empirical methods | Oxford |
| Governance | 4.5 | Comparative governance | Wiley |
| Administration & Society | 3.2 | Administrative theory and society | SAGE |
Administration & Society excels in socio-administrative intersections, distinguishing it from more policy-focused peers. It's ideal for interdisciplinary work.
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
Craft a strong abstract highlighting novelty. Ensure alignment with journal themes via recent issues. Seek feedback from mentors before submission. Track progress with academic calendars for deadlines. Post-publication, promote via social media and PhD program networks to maximize impact.
Avoid common pitfalls like insufficient literature review. For career integration, pair publications with tenure-track pursuits.