Journalism & Mass Communication Quarterly – Communications Journal Guide for Researchers

Why Researchers Choose Journalism & Mass Communication Quarterly for High-Impact Publications

Journalism & Mass Communication Quarterly stands as a cornerstone in the field of communications, offering researchers a premier platform to disseminate groundbreaking work on media, journalism, and societal impacts. Established in 1924, this esteemed journal has evolved from its origins as Journalism Quarterly to become a vital resource for scholars exploring the intersections of media practices, public opinion, and digital transformations. With a rigorous peer-review process and a commitment to advancing theoretical and empirical research, it attracts contributions from leading academics worldwide. The journal's scope encompasses a broad array of topics, including news production, media effects, advertising strategies, and communication policy, making it indispensable for those studying how information shapes contemporary society.

Researchers value Journalism & Mass Communication Quarterly for its high standards and visibility. Published by SAGE Publications, it ensures wide accessibility through both print and digital formats, reaching an audience of over 10,000 subscribers and countless online viewers. The journal's influence is evident in its consistent ranking among top-tier publications in communications, fostering discussions that influence policy, education, and industry practices. For emerging scholars, publishing here signifies a milestone, often leading to career advancements and collaborations. The editorial team emphasizes originality and methodological rigor, encouraging submissions that challenge existing paradigms or introduce innovative approaches to media analysis.

In an era of rapid media evolution, Journalism & Mass Communication Quarterly remains relevant by addressing timely issues like misinformation, social media dynamics, and global communication challenges. Its interdisciplinary appeal draws from sociology, political science, and cultural studies, enriching the discourse. Authors benefit from detailed feedback that enhances their work, while readers gain insights from diverse perspectives. To explore opportunities in academia, consider browsing higher education jobs or checking the academic calendar for upcoming deadlines.

Overview & History

Journalism & Mass Communication Quarterly, often abbreviated as JMQ, traces its roots to 1924 when it was founded as Journalism Quarterly by the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (AEJMC). Initially focused on journalism education and practice, it expanded in 2014 to encompass broader mass communication themes, reflecting the field's growth. Published quarterly, it features original research articles, book reviews, and essays that probe the evolving landscape of media. Under SAGE Publications since 2007, the journal maintains a tradition of excellence, with past editors including luminaries like Wilbur Schramm. Its archives offer a historical lens on media milestones, from radio's rise to digital disruptions, making it a go-to for longitudinal studies.

Scope and Disciplines Covered

The journal's scope prioritizes scholarly inquiry into journalism and mass communication, welcoming empirical, theoretical, and critical analyses. It covers topics such as media ethics, audience reception, digital journalism, and international communication flows. Contributions must demonstrate significant advancement in understanding media's role in society.

Key Journal Metrics

Journalism & Mass Communication Quarterly boasts robust metrics that underscore its academic stature. These indicators help researchers assess its suitability for submissions.

Indexing and Abstracting

The journal is indexed in prestigious databases, ensuring global discoverability. It appears in Clarivate Web of Science, Scopus, EBSCO, ProQuest, and Google Scholar. Abstracting services include MLA International Bibliography and Communication & Mass Media Complete, facilitating citations and interdisciplinary reach. This indexing supports its Q1 ranking in communications categories.

Publication Model and Fees

Journalism & Mass Communication Quarterly operates on a hybrid model, offering subscription access with open access options. Traditional publication is free for authors, but open access requires an Article Processing Charge (APC) of $3,000 USD, waivable for certain cases. SAGE's green and gold OA pathways align with funder mandates, promoting broader dissemination without compromising quality.

Submission Process and Guidelines

Submissions are handled via SAGE's online portal at the journal site. Manuscripts should be 8,000–10,000 words, double-spaced, in APA style. Authors submit anonymized files, including abstracts and keywords. The process involves initial editorial screening, followed by double-blind peer review, typically taking 3–6 months. Guidelines emphasize originality, with plagiarism checks mandatory. For detailed instructions, visit the official submission page.

Editorial Board Highlights

The editorial board comprises distinguished scholars from top institutions. Editor-in-Chief is Patrick D. Cook, PhD, from the University of Northern Colorado. Members include experts like Barbie Zelizer from the University of Pennsylvania and Seth C. Lewis from the University of Oregon, bringing diverse expertise in media theory and digital innovation. Their guidance ensures balanced, high-caliber content.

Why Publish in Journalism & Mass Communication Quarterly?

Publishing in this journal elevates a researcher's profile due to its prestige and readership. It offers rigorous feedback, enhancing publication quality, and connects authors to influential networks. With a focus on impactful work, it aids tenure and grant applications. Explore Rate My Professor for insights from peers or PhD programs to advance your career.

Comparison with Similar Journals

Journalism & Mass Communication Quarterly compares favorably with peers in scope and metrics, standing out for its historical depth.

Researcher Tips for Successful Submission

To succeed, align your work with the journal's scope, ensuring novelty and robust methods. Craft a compelling abstract and adhere to guidelines strictly. Engage with recent issues for trends. Network via AEJMC conferences. For job opportunities post-publication, check tenure-track faculty jobs. Always cite sources accurately to avoid rejection.