American Review of Public Administration – Communications, Marketing, and Public Affairs Journal Guide for Researchers

Why Researchers Choose American Review of Public Administration for High-Impact Publications

The American Review of Public Administration stands as a cornerstone in the field of public administration, offering a platform for scholars to disseminate cutting-edge research on governance, policy implementation, and organizational dynamics. Established in 1967, this peer-reviewed journal, published by SAGE Publications, has built a reputation for rigorous scholarship that bridges theory and practice in public sector management. Researchers are drawn to its comprehensive coverage of topics ranging from bureaucratic behavior to public service innovation, making it an ideal venue for impactful publications that influence policy debates and academic discourse.

With a focus on empirical and theoretical contributions, the journal emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, integrating insights from political science, economics, and sociology. Its commitment to high standards is evident in the meticulous peer-review process, ensuring that only the most robust studies see publication. For those in communications, marketing, and public affairs, the American Review of Public Administration provides invaluable opportunities to explore how public messaging shapes policy outcomes and citizen engagement. The journal's quarterly issues deliver timely analyses on contemporary challenges, such as digital governance and equity in public administration.

Publishing in this esteemed outlet enhances a researcher's visibility, with articles frequently cited in policy reports and academic syllabi. The journal's accessibility through SAGE's platform allows global readership, amplifying the reach of your work. Whether examining public sector reforms or leadership in nonprofits, contributors find a supportive environment that values diverse methodologies, from quantitative modeling to qualitative case studies. As public administration evolves amid rapid societal changes, this journal remains at the forefront, guiding scholars toward publications that drive real-world applications.

To elevate your research profile, consider submitting to the American Review of Public Administration. Connect with opportunities in higher education by exploring public administration positions or check the academic calendar for key deadlines.

Overview & History

The American Review of Public Administration was founded in 1967 by the American Society for Public Administration (ASPA), initially as a forum for advancing the discipline's theoretical foundations. Over the decades, it has evolved into a flagship publication that reflects the maturation of public administration as a scholarly field. Published quarterly by SAGE Publications since 2004, the journal maintains its mission to foster dialogue on administrative practices, ethical dilemmas, and policy efficacy.

Key milestones include its early emphasis on New Public Management theories in the 1980s and a shift toward collaborative governance in the 2000s. Today, it serves as a vital resource for understanding how public institutions adapt to globalization, technology, and social justice imperatives. With a circulation that reaches thousands of academics, practitioners, and policymakers, the journal's historical depth ensures its enduring relevance in shaping public administration scholarship.

Scope and Disciplines Covered

The American Review of Public Administration encompasses a broad spectrum of topics within public administration, with a strong emphasis on practical implications for governance. It welcomes manuscripts that address public policy analysis, organizational theory, and intergovernmental relations. The journal particularly encourages submissions that intersect with communications and public affairs, such as strategic messaging in policy campaigns and stakeholder engagement strategies.

This interdisciplinary scope positions the journal as a hub for researchers seeking to publish work that spans multiple fields, enhancing its appeal for collaborative studies.

Key Journal Metrics

These metrics underscore the journal's influence, with steady growth in citations reflecting its role in advancing public administration research. The impact factor highlights its value for tenure-track academics aiming for high-prestige outlets.

Indexing and Abstracting

The American Review of Public Administration is widely indexed, ensuring broad discoverability. It appears in Clarivate's Web of Science (Social Sciences Citation Index), Scopus, and EBSCO databases. Additional coverage includes ProQuest, JSTOR, and the International Bibliography of the Social Sciences. This extensive indexing facilitates global access and citation tracking, benefiting authors in building their scholarly profiles. For researchers in public affairs, inclusion in PAIS International provides targeted visibility among policy experts.

Publication Model and Fees

As a hybrid journal, the American Review of Public Administration offers both subscription-based and open access options. Traditional publication is free for authors, with articles available via institutional subscriptions. For open access, SAGE Choice allows immediate free access for an article processing charge (APC) of $3,000. There are no page charges or color fees. The journal adheres to Sherpa/RoMEO green archiving policies, permitting authors to share preprints and accepted manuscripts in institutional repositories. This model balances accessibility with sustainability, supporting diverse researcher needs.

Submission Process and Guidelines

Submissions are handled through SAGE's ScholarOne Manuscripts platform at the journal's official site. Authors must prepare manuscripts in APA style, with a maximum length of 8,000 words, including references. An abstract of 150-200 words and 4-6 keywords are required. The process involves initial editorial screening followed by double-anonymized peer review, typically taking 3-6 months. Guidelines emphasize originality, methodological rigor, and relevance to public administration. For detailed instructions, visit the submission portal.

Editorial Board Highlights

The editorial board comprises distinguished scholars from leading institutions, providing expert oversight. Editor-in-Chief Susan T. Gooden from Virginia Commonwealth University brings expertise in equity and social justice in public policy. Other key members include Ali Farazmand (Florida Atlantic University) on crisis management and Norma Riccucci (Rutgers University) on diversity in administration. This international and diverse board ensures balanced perspectives, enhancing the journal's credibility and global appeal.

Why Publish in American Review of Public Administration?

Publishing here offers researchers enhanced career advancement through high citation potential and networking opportunities via ASPA affiliations. The journal's focus on actionable insights appeals to practitioners, broadening impact beyond academia. With a reputation for fairness in review, it supports early-career scholars while challenging established experts. For those in communications and public affairs, it provides a venue to influence policy discourse. Ultimately, contributions here contribute to shaping effective governance worldwide.

Comparison with Similar Journals

This comparison highlights the American Review of Public Administration's balanced position, offering strong metrics without the ultra-competitive entry of top-tier peers, making it accessible yet prestigious.

Researcher Tips for Successful Submission

To succeed, align your manuscript with current calls, such as those on digital equity or sustainable governance. Ensure clear implications for practice and robust data analysis. Engage with recent issues for contextual fit. Utilize resources like Rate My Professor for mentorship insights or explore policy analyst roles to inform your work. Revise based on feedback to strengthen arguments.