Journal of Community Engagement and Higher Education – Volunteer Programs and Service Learning Journal Guide for Researchers

Why Researchers Choose Journal of Community Engagement and Higher Education for High-Impact Publications

The Journal of Community Engagement and Higher Education stands as a pivotal resource for scholars dedicated to advancing knowledge in volunteer programs and service learning. Established to bridge academia and community practice, this journal fosters interdisciplinary dialogue on how higher education institutions can drive social change through engaged scholarship. Researchers value its commitment to open access, ensuring wide dissemination of findings that influence policy, pedagogy, and practice.

With a focus on rigorous peer-reviewed articles, the journal publishes empirical studies, theoretical frameworks, and reflective essays that highlight innovative approaches to community partnerships. Its editorial team emphasizes ethical engagement, cultural responsiveness, and measurable outcomes in service learning initiatives. For academics in education, social sciences, and public service fields, publishing here offers visibility among practitioners and policymakers who seek evidence-based strategies to enhance civic involvement.

The journal's growth reflects the rising importance of community-engaged research in higher education curricula. It supports diverse methodologies, from qualitative case studies to quantitative impact assessments, encouraging submissions that address real-world challenges like equity in volunteering and sustainable community development. By prioritizing accessibility and relevance, the Journal of Community Engagement and Higher Education empowers researchers to contribute to transformative education models.

As you consider outlets for your work on volunteer programs, this journal provides a platform where scholarship meets societal need. Explore opportunities to submit manuscripts that could shape future directions in service learning. For guidance on academic career paths, visit Rate My Professor to connect with peers, or check the Academic Calendar for key deadlines in higher education.

Overview & History

The Journal of Community Engagement and Higher Education was launched in 2009 by the International Association for Research on Service-Learning and Community Engagement (IARSLCE), with publication hosted by the University of North Georgia. It emerged from a need to centralize scholarship on how higher education fosters community ties through service learning and volunteerism. Over the years, it has evolved into a key outlet for documenting partnerships between universities and local organizations.

Initially biannual, the journal now releases issues annually, maintaining a selective process to uphold quality. Its history mirrors broader trends in academia toward experiential learning, influenced by movements like the Carnegie Foundation's classification for community engagement. Today, it serves as a repository for case studies from U.S. and international contexts, promoting global perspectives on volunteer programs.

Scope and Disciplines Covered

The journal encompasses a broad yet focused scope, emphasizing research that integrates community engagement into higher education. It welcomes submissions on curriculum design, assessment of service learning outcomes, and institutional strategies for volunteer integration.

Key Journal Metrics

Performance indicators for the Journal of Community Engagement and Higher Education highlight its niche influence in education research. While not ranked in traditional impact lists, it demonstrates steady citation growth.

Indexing and Abstracting

The journal is indexed in several reputable databases, enhancing discoverability. It appears in Scopus, ERIC, and DOAJ, ensuring inclusion in academic searches for community engagement topics. EBSCO and Google Scholar also index its content, while Sherpa/RoMEO confirms its green open access policy for self-archiving.

Publication Model and Fees

As an open-access journal, the Journal of Community Engagement and Higher Education operates without article processing charges (APCs), making it accessible for authors worldwide. Published electronically via Digital Commons, it follows a diamond open access model supported by the publisher. No subscription fees apply, aligning with its mission to democratize knowledge in volunteer programs.

Submission Process and Guidelines

Authors submit manuscripts online through the journal's portal at the official site. Guidelines require APA style, 6,000-8,000 word limits, and anonymized reviews. Focus on originality, methodological rigor, and implications for practice. Cover letters should articulate fit with the journal's scope in service learning.

Editorial Board Highlights

The editorial board comprises experts from leading institutions. Editor-in-Chief Dr. Andrew Furco from the University of California, Berkeley, brings decades of experience in engaged scholarship. Other members include specialists in community-based research from Syracuse University and the University of Georgia, ensuring diverse oversight.

Why Publish in Journal of Community Engagement and Higher Education?

Publishing here amplifies your voice in a field where impact extends beyond citations to real-world application. The journal's open access reaches educators and administrators directly, fostering collaborations. It bolsters tenure portfolios by showcasing interdisciplinary work in volunteer programs, with editorial support for emerging scholars.

Comparison with Similar Journals

Researcher Tips for Successful Submission

To succeed, align your manuscript with current calls, such as equity in service learning. Use clear abstracts and robust data. Engage reviewers by addressing gaps in volunteer program literature. For career advice, explore Tenure-Track Faculty Jobs or Higher Ed Jobs. Track deadlines via Academic Calendar.