Why Researchers Choose Journal of Public Administration Research and Theory for High-Impact Publications
The Journal of Public Administration Research and Theory stands as a cornerstone in the field of public administration, offering a platform for groundbreaking research that shapes policy and organizational practices worldwide. Established in 1991 by Oxford University Press, this quarterly publication has evolved into one of the most respected journals in communications, marketing, and public affairs. Its commitment to theoretical innovation and empirical rigor attracts scholars from diverse backgrounds, including political science, management, and sociology. With a focus on advancing understanding of public sector dynamics, the journal publishes articles that bridge theory and practice, making it essential reading for academics, policymakers, and practitioners.
Researchers value the Journal of Public Administration Research and Theory for its high standards and global reach. The journal's impact factor of 6.8 (2022 Clarivate Journal Citation Reports) underscores its influence, with articles frequently cited in top-tier outlets. Its scope encompasses bureaucratic behavior, policy implementation, governance structures, and public management innovations, providing a venue for interdisciplinary work. For those in communications and public affairs, it highlights how media and marketing strategies intersect with administrative theory, offering insights into crisis communication and stakeholder engagement.
Publishing in the Journal of Public Administration Research and Theory enhances career trajectories by associating authors with a prestigious imprint. The journal's hybrid open access model allows flexibility, while its indexing in major databases ensures visibility. As public administration faces new challenges like digital governance and equity issues, the journal remains at the forefront, fostering debates that inform real-world solutions. Scholars preparing submissions should emphasize novel theoretical contributions supported by robust methodologies.
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Overview & History
The Journal of Public Administration Research and Theory was launched in 1991 to address the need for a dedicated outlet advancing theoretical and empirical research in public administration. Published by Oxford University Press, it quickly gained prominence for its focus on rigorous scholarship that transcends traditional boundaries. Over three decades, it has chronicled shifts in public sector theory, from new public management to collaborative governance models. Key milestones include special issues on topics like public service motivation and administrative ethics, which have shaped disciplinary discourse.
Today, the journal maintains a quarterly publication schedule, featuring original articles, research notes, and book reviews. Its editorial team, led by Professor Donald P. Moynihan from Georgetown University, ensures a balance of international perspectives. The journal's evolution reflects broader trends in communications and public affairs, incorporating analyses of social media's role in policy communication and marketing public sector initiatives.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
The Journal of Public Administration Research and Theory covers a wide array of topics within public administration, emphasizing theoretical development and empirical testing. Core areas include organizational theory, policy analysis, and bureaucratic politics, with applications to communications, marketing, and public affairs.
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Public Administration | Core theories of governance, management, and reform. |
| Political Science | Intersections with policy processes and institutional design. |
| Organization Studies | Behavior in public organizations and leadership dynamics. |
| Communications | Public sector messaging, media relations, and stakeholder engagement. |
| Public Policy | Implementation, evaluation, and innovation in policy domains. |
Manuscripts should demonstrate theoretical novelty, often drawing on disciplines like sociology and economics to enrich public affairs scholarship.
Key Journal Metrics
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor (2022) | 6.8 | Clarivate JCR |
| 5-Year Impact Factor | 8.3 | Clarivate JCR |
| CiteScore | 11.2 | Scopus |
| h-Index | 142 | Scopus |
| Acceptance Rate | Not publicly disclosed | N/A |
These metrics highlight the journal's standing, with steady growth in citations reflecting its relevance in evolving public administration landscapes.
Indexing and Abstracting
The Journal of Public Administration Research and Theory is indexed in leading databases, ensuring broad discoverability. It appears in Clarivate Web of Science (Social Sciences Citation Index), Scopus, and EBSCOhost. Additional coverage includes ProQuest, JSTOR, and the International Bibliography of the Social Sciences. For public affairs researchers, this indexing facilitates tracking of communications theories in administrative contexts. Access abstracts via the official journal homepage or Scopus at scopus.com.
Publication Model and Fees
As a hybrid journal, the Journal of Public Administration Research and Theory offers both subscription-based and open access options. Authors can publish under a traditional model or choose gold open access with an Article Processing Charge (APC) of $4,104 USD (as of 2023). Oxford University Press provides discounts for certain institutions via Read and Publish agreements. No page charges apply for standard submissions, making it accessible for early-career researchers in public affairs.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Submissions are handled through the ScholarOne platform. Authors must prepare manuscripts in double-spaced format, up to 10,000 words, with abstracts and keywords. The journal requires originality checks via iThenticate and adherence to APA style. Review time averages 3-6 months, with decisions communicated promptly. Focus on clear theoretical frameworks and implications for practice in communications and marketing within public sectors. Detailed guidelines are available on the journal site.
Editorial Board Highlights
The editorial board comprises distinguished scholars from top institutions. Editor-in-Chief Donald P. Moynihan (Georgetown) oversees strategy, supported by associate editors like Pamela Herd (University of Wisconsin) and Barry Bozeman (Arizona State). International members from the UK, Canada, and Australia ensure diverse viewpoints, particularly in global public affairs and policy communication.
Why Publish in Journal of Public Administration Research and Theory?
Publishing here offers unparalleled visibility and credibility. The journal's high impact factor elevates CVs for tenure and grants. Its readership includes influential policymakers, amplifying research on public marketing and crisis communications. Compared to peers, it excels in theoretical depth, fostering long-term citations.
Comparison with Similar Journals
| Journal | Impact Factor | Focus | Publisher |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Administration Review | 5.6 | Practice-oriented public admin | Wiley |
| Journal of Public Policy | 2.1 | Policy analysis | Cambridge |
| Administration & Society | 3.2 | Organizational theory | SAGE |
| Governance | 4.5 | Comparative admin | Wiley |
The Journal of Public Administration Research and Theory distinguishes itself through its emphasis on theoretical innovation over descriptive work.
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
To succeed, align your work with the journal's theoretical bent, using mixed methods where possible. Engage with recent issues for citation trends in public affairs. Seek feedback from colleagues before submission. For career support, explore adjunct professor jobs or public policy programs. Track deadlines via the academic calendar.