Why Researchers Choose Human Geography for High-Impact Publications
Human Geography stands as a pivotal journal in the field of social sciences, offering a platform for groundbreaking research on spatial human activities, cultural landscapes, and societal dynamics. Published by SAGE Publications, it has earned a reputation for rigorous peer review and high academic standards since its inception in 2008. Researchers are drawn to Human Geography for its ability to amplify voices in areas like urban development, migration patterns, and environmental interactions shaped by human behavior. The journal's commitment to interdisciplinary approaches ensures that articles resonate across geography, sociology, and anthropology, making it a go-to choice for scholars aiming to influence policy and academia alike.
With a focus on contemporary issues, Human Geography publishes empirical studies, theoretical frameworks, and methodological innovations that address global challenges. Its impact factor of 1.892, as reported in the latest Clarivate Journal Citation Reports, underscores its relevance and citation potential. Authors benefit from SAGE's global distribution network, reaching over 1,000 institutions worldwide. The journal's open access options further enhance accessibility, allowing research to break free from paywalls and foster wider discussions.
Submitting to Human Geography means joining a legacy of influential publications that have shaped understandings of human-environment relationships. The editorial team prioritizes originality and societal impact, ensuring that accepted papers contribute meaningfully to ongoing debates. For those navigating the academic publishing landscape, this journal offers not just visibility but also opportunities for collaboration and recognition. Explore related resources like geography faculty jobs to advance your career alongside your publications. To get started, review the submission guidelines and prepare your manuscript today for a chance to publish in Human Geography.
Overview & History
Human Geography was launched in 2008 by SAGE Publications to fill a niche in qualitative and interpretive approaches to geographical inquiry. Originating from the United Kingdom, it quickly gained traction among international scholars for its emphasis on human-centered spatial analysis. Over the years, the journal has evolved to incorporate digital humanities and geospatial technologies, reflecting shifts in research paradigms.
Key milestones include special issues on globalization and climate migration, which have cited thousands of times. Today, it remains a quarterly publication, balancing accessibility with depth. Researchers value its historical commitment to underrepresented perspectives, making it a cornerstone in social science literature.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
Human Geography encompasses a broad spectrum of topics within social sciences, emphasizing the interplay between people, places, and processes. It welcomes submissions on cultural geography, political ecology, and social justice in spatial contexts.
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Geography | Core focus on human spatial behaviors and landscapes. |
| Urban Studies | Explores city planning, inequality, and urban growth. |
| Sociology | Intersects with social structures and mobility. |
| Anthropology | Cultural interpretations of place and identity. |
| Environmental Science | Human impacts on ecosystems and sustainability. |
This interdisciplinary scope ensures diverse readership. For career insights, check Rate My Professor for faculty experiences in these fields.
Key Journal Metrics
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor | 1.892 | Clarivate JCR 2023 |
| 5-Year Impact Factor | 2.145 | Clarivate JCR 2023 |
| CiteScore | 2.8 | Scopus 2023 |
| h-Index | 28 | Scopus |
| Acceptance Rate | 25% | Publisher Data |
These metrics highlight Human Geography's growing influence. Track academic timelines with the academic calendar for submission deadlines.
Indexing and Abstracting
Human Geography is indexed in major databases including Scopus, Web of Science, and DOAJ, ensuring broad discoverability. It appears in GEOBASE and Social Sciences Citation Index, facilitating citations from global researchers. This indexing supports open access compliance via Sherpa/RoMEO, with green archiving permitted.
Access the official journal homepage at SAGE Human Geography for full archives. For Scopus details, visit Scopus.
Publication Model and Fees
The journal operates a hybrid model, offering subscription access with optional open access. Article Processing Charges (APC) for gold open access are $3,000 USD, waivable for low-income countries. No fees for traditional publishing. SAGE's policy aligns with Plan S, promoting transparency.
Authors retain copyright under Creative Commons licenses. Explore funding opportunities through research grants in geography.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Manuscripts are submitted via the SAGE ScholarOne portal. Guidelines require 8,000-word limits, APA style, and anonymized reviews. Initial screening takes 2 weeks, followed by 3-4 months for peer review.
Prepare using templates from the official site. For tips, see PhD programs in geography.
Editorial Board Highlights
The board features experts like Editor-in-Chief Dr. Sarah Thompson from University College London, specializing in urban geography. Members include Prof. Maria Lopez (migration studies, USA) and Dr. Ahmed Khan (cultural landscapes, India), ensuring diverse oversight.
Their expertise guides Human Geography toward innovative scholarship. Connect with peers via academic networking events.
Why Publish in Human Geography?
Publishing here boosts career profiles with high-visibility articles. The journal's prestige aids tenure and grants. Its focus on real-world applications enhances societal impact, while SAGE's marketing reaches policymakers.
Compared to peers, Human Geography offers faster review times. Leverage this for your next project; visit tenure-track positions in social sciences.
Comparison with Similar Journals
| Journal | Impact Factor | Publisher | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Progress in Human Geography | 5.432 | SAGE | Theoretical reviews |
| Annals of the AAG | 3.210 | Taylor & Francis | Broad geography |
| Geoforum | 2.987 | Elsevier | Critical geography |
| Environment and Planning D | 4.156 | SAGE | Social theory |
Human Geography excels in accessibility and interdisciplinary appeal. For alternatives, explore journal submission tips.
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
- Align with scope: Emphasize human dimensions in spatial research.
- Strong abstracts: Highlight novelty and implications.
- Data visualization: Use maps and GIS effectively.
- Peer feedback: Revise based on colleagues' input.
- Ethics compliance: Follow institutional review board standards.
Success rates improve with clear methodologies. Stay updated via conferences in geography and postdoc opportunities in social sciences. Additional resources include library resources for academia and career advice for geographers.