Criminology – Police and Public Safety Journal Guide for Researchers

Why Researchers Choose Criminology for High-Impact Publications

Criminology stands as a cornerstone in the field of social sciences, particularly for those studying police and public safety. Established as the official publication of the American Society of Criminology, this journal has been instrumental in disseminating groundbreaking research since 1963. Researchers gravitate toward Criminology for its rigorous peer-review process and commitment to empirical and theoretical advancements in understanding criminal behavior, law enforcement practices, and societal responses to crime.

The journal's scope encompasses a wide array of topics, from the etiology of crime to the effectiveness of policing strategies and restorative justice models. With contributions from leading experts worldwide, Criminology ensures that its pages reflect the latest methodologies, including quantitative analyses, qualitative studies, and interdisciplinary approaches. Its prestige is underscored by a high citation rate, making it a preferred venue for scholars aiming to influence both academic discourse and public policy.

Publishing in Criminology offers unparalleled visibility. Articles here often inform legislative changes, training programs for law enforcement, and educational curricula in criminal justice. The journal's hybrid model allows authors to choose open access, broadening reach without compromising quality. For early-career researchers, a publication in this outlet can significantly boost career trajectories, opening doors to grants, tenure, and collaborations.

To explore opportunities in related academic roles, consider browsing criminal justice jobs or police administration positions. Whether you're refining your manuscript or seeking inspiration, Criminology remains a beacon for impactful scholarship in police and public safety.

Overview & History

Criminology journal was founded in 1963 by the American Society of Criminology to provide a dedicated platform for scholarly work in the field. Over the decades, it has evolved from focusing primarily on theoretical criminology to embracing diverse empirical research on crime control, victimization, and justice systems. Published quarterly by Wiley-Blackwell, it maintains a global readership and authorship base, with special issues addressing contemporary issues like cybercrime and racial disparities in policing.

The journal's history reflects the field's maturation, from early debates on deterrence theory to modern examinations of evidence-based policing. Key milestones include its inclusion in major indexing services in the 1970s and the shift to online publishing in the 2000s, enhancing accessibility for researchers worldwide.

Scope and Disciplines Covered

Criminology covers interdisciplinary research at the intersection of sociology, psychology, law, and public policy. Its primary focus is on police and public safety, but it extends to broader criminological inquiries.

Key Journal Metrics

Criminology's metrics highlight its influence in the academic community, with data sourced from Clarivate Journal Citation Reports and Scopus.

Indexing and Abstracting

Criminology is widely indexed, ensuring discoverability. It appears in Web of Science (Social Sciences Citation Index), Scopus, PubMed (select articles), Criminal Justice Abstracts, and Sociological Abstracts. These services facilitate citations and interdisciplinary reach, vital for researchers in police and public safety.

Publication Model and Fees

As a hybrid journal, Criminology offers traditional subscription access alongside open access options. The Article Publication Charge (APC) for gold open access is $3,600 USD, covering peer review and production. Subscription access is available through institutional licenses via Wiley Online Library. Authors retain copyright under a Creative Commons license for OA articles.

Submission Process and Guidelines

Submissions are handled through ScholarOne Manuscripts on the Wiley platform. Manuscripts should be original, up to 10,000 words, with anonymized reviews. Guidelines emphasize clear methodology, ethical standards, and relevance to criminology. Initial review takes about 30 days, with revisions possible.

• Prepare abstract (150-200 words)
• Ensure double-spacing and APA style
• Declare conflicts of interest

For detailed guidelines, visit the official journal homepage.

Editorial Board Highlights

The editorial team, led by Editor-in-Chief Richard B. Felson from Pennsylvania State University, includes experts like Patricia Y. Warren (Florida State University) in race and justice, and David Weisburd (George Mason University) in policing. Their diverse backgrounds ensure balanced, high-quality oversight.

Why Publish in Criminology?

Publishing here amplifies research impact, with articles frequently cited in policy reports and media. The journal's reputation enhances CVs, aiding academic career planning. It fosters connections in the criminology community, ideal for advancing work in police and public safety.

Comparison with Similar Journals

Criminology compares favorably with peers in scope and metrics.

Researcher Tips for Successful Submission

To succeed, align your work with current calls, use robust data, and engage with recent issues. Seek feedback from peers and consider professor ratings for mentorship insights. Track trends via Scopus for novelty. Persistence pays off in this competitive field.