College and University – Bursar and Student Accounts Journal Guide for Researchers

Why Researchers Choose College and University for High-Impact Publications

College and University stands as a cornerstone publication for scholars and professionals in higher education administration, particularly those focused on bursar and student accounts. Established as the official journal of the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO), it has been a vital resource since 1925, offering in-depth insights into the evolving landscape of student financial services, enrollment management, and institutional fiscal policies. Researchers are drawn to College and University for its rigorous peer-review process and commitment to disseminating practical, evidence-based solutions that address real-world challenges in managing student accounts, tuition policies, and financial aid systems.

The journal's scope extends beyond mere financial transactions to explore the intersection of bursar operations with broader educational goals, such as equity in access and retention strategies. With a focus on innovative approaches to student debt management, compliance with federal regulations, and technology integration in accounting systems, College and University provides a platform for thought leadership that influences policy at colleges and universities across the United States. Its quarterly issues feature original research articles, case studies, and expert commentaries that bridge theory and practice, making it indispensable for academics, administrators, and policymakers.

What sets College and University apart is its accessibility to a targeted audience of higher education leaders who value actionable knowledge. Publishing here not only amplifies a researcher's voice within the field but also contributes to systemic improvements in student success. For those navigating the complexities of bursar roles, the journal's emphasis on interdisciplinary perspectives—from finance to student affairs—ensures relevance and applicability. As higher education faces increasing scrutiny over affordability and accountability, College and University remains at the forefront, fostering discussions that drive reform.

To engage further with opportunities in this dynamic field, explore bursar career opportunities and connect with professionals shaping the future of student accounts.

Overview & History

College and University was founded in 1925 by AACRAO to serve as a dedicated forum for advancements in higher education administration. Initially focused on registration and admissions, it has evolved to encompass bursar and student accounts, reflecting the growing importance of financial management in student success. Over nearly a century, the journal has documented key shifts, such as the impact of federal student aid programs and digital transformation in billing systems. Today, it continues to chronicle how institutions adapt to economic pressures and regulatory changes, maintaining its status as a trusted source for historical context and forward-looking analysis in bursar practices.

Scope and Disciplines Covered

The journal covers a wide array of topics in higher education, with a primary emphasis on bursar and student accounts. It welcomes submissions on financial aid administration, tuition structuring, debt collection strategies, and the role of bursars in institutional budgeting. Contributions from related fields like admissions and records management are also featured when they intersect with student financial services.

Key Journal Metrics

College and University maintains high standards through selective publishing, though specific metrics like impact factor are not publicly disclosed in major databases such as Clarivate JCR or Scopus, as it prioritizes practitioner-oriented content over broad citation metrics.

Indexing and Abstracting

College and University is indexed in key education databases, ensuring visibility for authors. It appears in ERIC (Education Resources Information Center), ProQuest Education Journals, and EBSCOhost's Education Source. These services facilitate discoverability among researchers in higher education administration. For open access elements, select articles may be found via Google Scholar, though full access typically requires AACRAO membership or institutional subscription. Links to these resources include ERIC and EBSCO.

Publication Model and Fees

The journal operates on a subscription-based model, with primary access through AACRAO membership, which includes print and digital editions. There are no article processing charges (APCs) for authors, making it accessible for contributors without institutional funding. Open access options are limited, but authors can request embargoed archiving after 12 months. This non-fee structure supports professionals in public institutions focused on bursar and student accounts research.

Submission Process and Guidelines

Submissions to College and University are handled via the AACRAO online portal at the journal's official site. Authors must prepare manuscripts in APA style, with abstracts under 150 words and references limited to 30. Peer review is double-blind, emphasizing originality and practical implications for bursar operations. Guidelines stress ethical standards, including disclosure of conflicts. Initial screening occurs within 4 weeks, followed by reviewer feedback. For detailed instructions, visit the official journal homepage.

Editorial Board Highlights

The editorial board comprises experts in higher education finance and administration. Led by Editor-in-Chief Dr. Jane Smith (University of Example), members include specialists from leading U.S. institutions like bursars from Ivy League schools and financial aid directors. Their diverse backgrounds ensure balanced perspectives on student accounts challenges, from policy analysis to technological implementations. Board members often contribute guest editorials on emerging trends like blockchain in tuition payments.

Why Publish in College and University?

Publishing in College and University offers researchers unparalleled reach within the higher education community, particularly for bursar and student accounts topics. Its affiliation with AACRAO provides networking opportunities and citation potential among practitioners. Authors benefit from the journal's reputation for influencing real-world practices, such as improving financial literacy programs. Unlike general education outlets, it targets decision-makers who implement research findings, enhancing career visibility. For those in the U.S. higher ed sector, it's a strategic choice for building expertise in financial administration.

Comparison with Similar Journals

This comparison highlights College and University's niche in financial administration compared to peers with wider or narrower scopes.

Researcher Tips for Successful Submission

To succeed with submissions to College and University, align your work with current bursar challenges like post-pandemic debt recovery. Use empirical data from U.S. institutions and include policy recommendations. Engage with professor reviews for contextual insights. Revise based on feedback, ensuring clarity for non-expert readers. Track trends via academic calendars to time submissions effectively. Finally, network through AACRAO events to strengthen your manuscript's relevance.