Why Researchers Choose International Journal of Communication for High-Impact Publications
The International Journal of Communication stands as a cornerstone in the field of communications, offering researchers a premier platform to disseminate groundbreaking work on media, society, and digital culture. Established in 2008 by the University of Southern California Annenberg Press, this open-access journal has rapidly gained recognition for its rigorous peer-review process and commitment to advancing scholarly discourse. With a focus on interdisciplinary approaches, it attracts contributions from around the world, covering topics from political communication to digital media ethics.
Its prestige is underscored by inclusion in major indexing services like Scopus and the Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ), ensuring wide accessibility and citation potential. Researchers value the journal's diamond open-access model, which eliminates article processing charges (APCs), making high-quality publication available without financial barriers. The journal's scope encompasses theoretical and empirical studies, appealing to scholars in communications, media studies, and related fields.
Publishing here enhances visibility, as articles are freely available on the official site, fostering global engagement. The editorial board, comprising leading experts, upholds standards that rival top-tier outlets. For those navigating academic careers, submitting to this journal can bolster profiles, especially when combined with tools like Rate My Professor for networking or checking the academic calendar for deadlines. Metrics such as CiteScore highlight its influence, with steady growth in citations reflecting real-world impact.
Whether exploring new media technologies or cultural impacts of communication, the International Journal of Communication provides a trusted venue. Its history of innovative special issues and timely publications positions it as essential for forward-thinking scholars. To elevate your research trajectory, consider preparing a submission today and explore related opportunities in higher ed jobs.
Overview & History
The International Journal of Communication was founded in 2008 to address the evolving landscape of communication studies in the digital age. Published by the University of Southern California Annenberg Press, it emerged from the need for an open-access outlet that prioritizes global perspectives on media and society. Over the years, it has published thousands of articles, special sections, and book reviews, establishing itself as a vital resource for academics worldwide.
From its inception, the journal has emphasized accessibility, with all content freely available without subscription walls. This approach aligns with the open-access movement, promoting knowledge dissemination across borders. Key milestones include launching thematic issues on topics like social media's role in politics and the ethics of digital surveillance, which have influenced policy and further research.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
The journal's scope is broad yet focused, inviting manuscripts that advance understanding of communication processes in contemporary contexts. It welcomes interdisciplinary work that bridges theory and practice.
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Communications | Core theories and methodologies in media and interpersonal communication. |
| Media Studies | Analysis of digital, broadcast, and print media's societal impacts. |
| Cultural Studies | Exploration of communication's role in culture, identity, and globalization. |
| Political Communication | Studies on media influence in politics, elections, and public opinion. |
| Digital Media | Emerging technologies, social platforms, and online discourse. |
Key Journal Metrics
Performance indicators reflect the journal's standing in the field, based on available public data from indexing services.
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| CiteScore | 3.2 (2022) | Scopus |
| SJR | 0.912 | Scopus |
| h-Index | 45 | Scopus |
| Impact Factor | Not publicly disclosed | Clarivate JCR (not indexed) |
| Acceptance Rate | Not publicly disclosed | Official sources |
Indexing and Abstracting
The International Journal of Communication is indexed in several prestigious databases, enhancing discoverability. Key inclusions are Scopus for citation tracking, DOAJ for open-access verification, and Google Scholar for broad reach. It is also abstracted in communication-specific repositories like Communication & Mass Media Complete. These affiliations ensure articles reach diverse audiences, from academics to policymakers. For more on academic resources, visit academic calendar tools.
Publication Model and Fees
As a diamond open-access journal, it operates without author fees or subscriptions. This model supports equitable access, funded through institutional backing from USC Annenberg. Articles are published online immediately upon acceptance, with no embargoes. Authors retain copyright under a Creative Commons license, promoting reuse while protecting intellectual property. This fee-free structure is ideal for early-career researchers; pair it with career advice from Rate My Professor.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Submissions are handled via the journal's online portal at ijoc.org. Manuscripts should follow APA style, with a maximum of 8,000 words excluding references. The process involves initial editorial screening, followed by double-blind peer review. Authors are encouraged to highlight interdisciplinary angles. For preparation tips, check academic writing resources. Review typically takes 3-6 months, though exact times vary.
Editorial Board Highlights
The board features renowned scholars such as Editor-in-Chief Larry Gross from USC Annenberg, alongside international experts in media theory and digital ethics. Members hail from institutions like Harvard and Oxford, bringing diverse expertise. Their guidance ensures high standards; learn more about influential academics via Rate My Professor.
- Larry Gross: Focus on visual communication and media policy.
- Sarah Banet-Weiser: Expertise in feminist media studies.
- Other associates from global universities.
Why Publish in International Journal of Communication?
Publishing here offers unmatched visibility in an open-access format, with rapid dissemination to a global audience. Its interdisciplinary appeal broadens impact, while rigorous review enhances manuscript quality. For career advancement, citations from this journal strengthen tenure dossiers and grant applications. Explore job opportunities in communications faculty positions to leverage your publication.
Comparison with Similar Journals
This journal compares favorably with peers in scope and accessibility.
| Journal | Open Access | CiteScore | APC |
|---|---|---|---|
| International Journal of Communication | Yes (Diamond) | 3.2 | None |
| Journal of Communication | Hybrid | 7.8 | $3,000+ |
| New Media & Society | Hybrid | 6.5 | $2,500+ |
| Communication Theory | Hybrid | 4.1 | $2,000+ |
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
To succeed, align your work with the journal's emphasis on innovative, evidence-based arguments. Use clear abstracts and engage with recent issues. Avoid common pitfalls like insufficient literature review by consulting conference deadlines. Network via networking events and track progress with tools from Rate My Professor. Persistence pays off in this competitive field.