Why Researchers Choose American Journal of Political Science for High-Impact Publications
The American Journal of Political Science stands as a cornerstone in the field of political science, offering a prestigious platform for scholars to disseminate groundbreaking research. Established in 1967, this journal has evolved into one of the most influential outlets for empirical and theoretical work in politics. Its rigorous peer-review process ensures that only the highest-quality manuscripts are published, making it a preferred choice for researchers aiming to advance their academic careers. With a focus on innovative methodologies and substantive contributions, the American Journal of Political Science impact factor of 5.060 reflects its enduring relevance and citation impact within the discipline.
Scholars value the journal for its comprehensive coverage of political phenomena, from international relations to domestic policy. Publishing in the American Journal of Political Science not only enhances visibility but also connects authors with a global network of peers. The journal's commitment to open and replicable science further bolsters its reputation, encouraging transparency in research practices. For early-career researchers, securing publication here can be a pivotal step toward tenure and recognition. The editorial team prioritizes diversity in perspectives, welcoming submissions that challenge conventional wisdom and explore underrepresented topics.
As political science grapples with contemporary challenges like democratic backsliding and global inequality, the American Journal of Political Science provides a vital forum for timely analysis. Its interdisciplinary approach integrates insights from economics, sociology, and law, enriching the discourse. Researchers often highlight the journal's efficient submission process and constructive feedback as key advantages. To explore opportunities in academia, consider browsing political science faculty jobs or checking the academic calendar for upcoming deadlines.
Overview & History
The American Journal of Political Science, founded in 1967 by the Midwest Political Science Association, emerged from the need for a dedicated outlet for quantitative and behavioral approaches in political research. Initially published quarterly, it has grown to six issues per year, reflecting the expanding scope of the discipline. Over the decades, it has chronicled major shifts, from the behavioral revolution to contemporary computational methods. Key milestones include its adoption of online submission systems in the early 2000s and emphasis on data accessibility. Today, it remains a flagship journal, with over 50 years of archival content available through its official site.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
The journal encompasses a wide array of topics within political science, emphasizing empirical rigor and theoretical innovation. It welcomes manuscripts on American politics, comparative politics, international relations, political methodology, political theory, and public policy. Interdisciplinary work that bridges political science with other fields is particularly encouraged.
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| American Politics | Studies of elections, institutions, and public opinion in the U.S. |
| Comparative Politics | Cross-national analyses of political systems and development. |
| International Relations | Global conflicts, diplomacy, and international organizations. |
| Political Methodology | Advances in quantitative and qualitative research methods. |
| Political Theory | Normative and historical inquiries into political ideas. |
| Public Policy | Policy formulation, implementation, and evaluation. |
Key Journal Metrics
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor (2022) | 5.060 | Clarivate JCR |
| 5-Year Impact Factor | 6.123 | Clarivate JCR |
| CiteScore | 8.4 | Scopus |
| h-Index | 142 | Scopus |
| Acceptance Rate | Not publicly disclosed | N/A |
| Submission to Decision | Average 3-4 months | Journal site |
Indexing and Abstracting
The American Journal of Political Science is indexed in major databases, ensuring wide discoverability. It appears in Clarivate Web of Science, Scopus, JSTOR, and Google Scholar. Abstracting services include PAIS International and Social Sciences Citation Index. This broad indexing supports high citation rates and accessibility for researchers worldwide. DOAJ lists it as a quality open-access compliant journal, though full access requires subscription.
Publication Model and Fees
As a hybrid journal published by Wiley on behalf of the Midwest Political Science Association, it operates primarily on a subscription model. Authors can opt for open access via Wiley's OnlineOpen, incurring an Article Publication Charge (APC) of $3,500. No fees apply for standard subscription-based publication. Page charges are not imposed, making it accessible for non-funded researchers. Sherpa/RoMEO classifies it as green open access compliant, allowing self-archiving of accepted manuscripts after embargo.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Submissions are handled through the online portal at the journal's official site. Manuscripts must be original, anonymized for blind review, and formatted per APSA style guidelines. Length is typically 8,000-10,000 words, excluding references. Authors should include data replication files upon acceptance. The process involves initial editorial screening, followed by 2-3 peer reviews. Revisions are common, with decisions communicated within 90 days on average. For detailed guidelines, visit academic calendar resources.
Editorial Board Highlights
The editorial team is led by Editor-in-Chief Claire S. H. Lim from Stanford University, bringing expertise in political economy. Associate editors hail from top institutions like Harvard, UC Berkeley, and NYU, covering diverse subfields. The board includes over 30 members, ensuring balanced representation across methodologies and regions. Their collective experience spans decades, fostering a commitment to methodological pluralism and global perspectives.
Why Publish in American Journal of Political Science?
Publishing here offers unparalleled prestige, with articles frequently cited in policy debates and media. The journal's selectivity enhances CV impact, aiding grant applications and promotions. Its emphasis on replicability aligns with modern standards, while the supportive review process aids manuscript improvement. For political science scholars, it's a gateway to influential networks. Explore related opportunities via Rate My Professor or tenure-track positions.
Comparison with Similar Journals
| Journal | Impact Factor | Focus | Publisher |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Political Science Review | 7.579 | Broad political science | Cambridge |
| Journal of Politics | 4.051 | Empirical politics | University of Chicago |
| Political Analysis | 5.912 | Methods | Cambridge |
| World Politics | 3.875 | Comparative/IR | Cambridge |
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
To succeed, ensure your manuscript addresses a clear puzzle with robust evidence. Engage with recent literature and provide transparent methods. Avoid common pitfalls like overgeneralization. Seek co-authors for diverse insights and revise based on feedback. Track trends via political science jobs to align research with hiring needs. Persistence pays off in this competitive arena.
