Why Researchers Choose Journal of the American Academy of Religion for High-Impact Publications
The Journal of the American Academy of Religion stands as a cornerstone in the field of religious and spiritual life studies, offering a platform for groundbreaking scholarship since its inception in 1933. Originally launched as the Journal of Bible and Religion, it evolved into its current form in 1969 under the auspices of the American Academy of Religion, reflecting the broadening scope of religious inquiry. Published by Oxford University Press, this quarterly journal is renowned for its commitment to interdisciplinary approaches, encompassing historical, philosophical, and contemporary analyses of religion across global contexts.
Researchers gravitate toward the Journal of the American Academy of Religion for its unparalleled prestige within academia. With an impact factor of 0.6 (2022 Clarivate Journal Citation Reports), it ranks highly in the Religion category, ensuring that published articles reach influential audiences and contribute meaningfully to ongoing discourses. The journal's rigorous double-anonymized peer-review process upholds the highest standards of scholarly integrity, making acceptance a significant milestone for early-career and established scholars alike.
Spanning topics from textual criticism to ethnographic studies of spiritual practices, the journal fosters dialogue across subfields, appealing to those exploring the intersections of religion with culture, politics, and society. Its open access options through Oxford's policies enhance accessibility, amplifying the reach of research in an era of global scholarship. For authors, publishing here not only bolsters CVs but also opens doors to collaborations and citations that propel careers forward.
Whether delving into comparative religion or ethical dimensions of faith, the Journal of the American Academy of Religion provides a vital space for nuanced, evidence-based arguments. As religious studies continue to address pressing global issues like secularism and interfaith relations, this journal remains indispensable. To elevate your research profile, consider submitting your manuscript today and connect with opportunities in religious studies academia via religion faculty positions.
Overview & History
The Journal of the American Academy of Religion has a storied legacy dating back to 1933, when it first appeared as the Journal of Bible and Religion, founded by the American Academy of Religion to advance biblical scholarship. By 1969, amid expanding academic interests, it was renamed to reflect a wider embrace of religious studies beyond biblical texts. Under Oxford University Press since 1973, it has grown into a flagship publication, issuing four volumes annually with each containing multiple issues packed with peer-reviewed articles, book reviews, and occasional special forums.
This evolution mirrors the field's maturation, from confessional approaches to critical, pluralistic methodologies. Key milestones include its adoption of digital formats in the early 2000s, enhancing global accessibility, and its consistent ranking in major indices. Today, it serves over 7,000 members of the American Academy of Religion and a broader readership, solidifying its role as a nexus for innovative thought in religious and spiritual life.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
The journal's scope is expansive, prioritizing original research that advances understanding of religion in its diverse manifestations. It welcomes submissions on historical developments, philosophical inquiries, sociological analyses, and anthropological perspectives on spiritual practices worldwide.
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Religious Studies | Core analyses of doctrines, rituals, and institutions across traditions. |
| Theology | Explorations of divine concepts and ethical frameworks in faith systems. |
| Philosophy of Religion | Critical examinations of religious epistemology and metaphysics. |
| Anthropology of Religion | Ethnographic studies of spiritual life in cultural contexts. |
| Comparative Religion | Cross-cultural comparisons of beliefs and practices. |
Interdisciplinary work integrating religion with gender studies, environmental ethics, or postcolonial theory is particularly encouraged, ensuring broad appeal.
Key Journal Metrics
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor | 0.6 | Clarivate JCR 2022 |
| 5-Year Impact Factor | 0.8 | Clarivate JCR 2022 |
| CiteScore | 1.2 | Scopus 2023 |
| h-Index | 45 | Scopus |
| Acceptance Rate | 15-20% | Publisher data |
These metrics underscore the journal's influence, with steady citation growth reflecting its relevance in religious scholarship.
Indexing and Abstracting
The Journal of the American Academy of Religion is indexed in prestigious databases, ensuring wide discoverability. It appears in Clarivate Web of Science (Arts & Humanities Citation Index), Scopus, ATLA Religion Database, and EBSCOhost, among others. This coverage facilitates tracking of research impact and integration into academic libraries globally. For full indexing details, visit the official journal homepage or Scopus.
Publication Model and Fees
As a hybrid journal from Oxford University Press, it offers both subscription-based and open access publication. Authors can publish under a traditional model with no fees, or opt for Gold Open Access via the Oxford Open initiative, incurring an Article Processing Charge (APC) of $4,104 USD (as of 2023). Waivers are available for authors from low-income countries through Research4Life partnerships. Page charges do not apply, and color figures are free in online editions. This model balances accessibility with sustainability, allowing researchers to choose based on funding availability.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Submissions are handled exclusively through the online portal at ScholarOne Manuscripts. Manuscripts should be 8,000-10,000 words, double-spaced, in Chicago style (notes-bibliography). Anonymize files for blind review, including a separate title page with abstract (150 words) and keywords. Initial decisions take 4-6 weeks, with revisions possible. Adhere to ethical standards per COPE guidelines. Detailed instructions are on the official journal homepage.
Editorial Board Highlights
The editorial team, led by Editor-in-Chief Amir Hussain (Loyola Marymount University), comprises distinguished scholars from top institutions. Associate Editors include experts in Asian religions (Tracy Pintchman, Loyola Marymount), African American religious history (Judith Weisenfeld, Princeton), and gender and religion (Katherine Turpin, Iliff School of Theology). This diverse board ensures balanced, inclusive review, drawing on global perspectives to maintain the journal's excellence.
Why Publish in Journal of the American Academy of Religion?
Publishing in the Journal of the American Academy of Religion elevates scholarly profiles through association with a top-tier venue. Its readership includes leading academics, influencing tenure and promotion decisions. High citation potential stems from comprehensive indexing and thematic relevance. Authors benefit from Oxford's marketing, reaching international conferences and syllabi. For career advancement, explore Rate My Professor for peer insights or academic calendar events in religious studies.
Comparison with Similar Journals
| Journal | Impact Factor | Publisher | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Journal of Religion | 0.4 | University of Chicago Press | Theological and historical religion |
| Religion | 0.7 | Elsevier | Comparative and social religion |
| Numen | 0.5 | Brill | History of religions |
| Method & Theory in the Study of Religion | 0.3 | Brill | Methodological approaches |
The Journal of the American Academy of Religion distinguishes itself with broader interdisciplinary scope and higher visibility in humanities rankings.
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
To succeed, craft a compelling abstract highlighting novelty and methodology. Engage deeply with recent literature, avoiding overly descriptive work. Seek feedback from colleagues before submission. Track revisions meticulously, addressing reviewer comments thoroughly. Utilize resources like the theology professor jobs board for networking. Persistence pays off in this competitive field.