Why Researchers Choose Journalism & Mass Communication Quarterly for High-Impact Publications
Journalism & Mass Communication Quarterly stands as a cornerstone in the field of Communication, offering researchers a prestigious platform to disseminate groundbreaking work in media, journalism, and mass communication. Established in 1924 by the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (AEJMC), this quarterly publication has evolved into a vital resource for scholars worldwide. With its rigorous peer-review process and commitment to advancing theoretical and empirical research, the journal attracts submissions from leading academics exploring topics such as digital media ethics, audience analysis, and global communication trends. Its impact factor of 3.0, as reported in the 2022 Journal Citation Reports by Clarivate, underscores its influence, placing it among the top-tier outlets in Communication studies. Researchers value its broad yet focused scope, which encompasses interdisciplinary approaches blending sociology, psychology, and technology with media practices. Publishing here not only enhances visibility but also connects authors to a network of influential peers and policymakers. The journal's hybrid open access model allows flexibility in dissemination, ensuring wide accessibility without compromising quality. For those aiming to contribute to shaping public discourse on media's role in society, Journalism & Mass Communication Quarterly provides an unparalleled opportunity. Explore submission guidelines to elevate your research profile and join the legacy of impactful scholarship. To find related academic opportunities, visit academic jobs or check Rate My Professor for faculty insights.
Overview & History
Journalism & Mass Communication Quarterly, often abbreviated as JMCO, traces its roots to 1924 when it launched as Journalism Quarterly under the auspices of AEJMC. Initially focused on journalism education and practice, it expanded in 1985 to encompass mass communication, reflecting the field's growing complexity with the rise of broadcasting and digital media. Published by SAGE Publications, the journal maintains a quarterly schedule, releasing issues in March, June, September, and December. Over nearly a century, it has chronicled pivotal shifts, from print journalism's dominance to the digital revolution's challenges. Key milestones include special issues on media effects during World War II and contemporary analyses of social media's societal impact. Today, it serves as AEJMC's flagship publication, fostering dialogue among over 3,000 members globally. Its editorial leadership, rooted in U.S. academia, ensures a balance of theoretical rigor and practical relevance, making it indispensable for Communication scholars.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
The journal's scope centers on advancing knowledge in journalism and mass communication through original research, theoretical essays, and critical reviews. It welcomes manuscripts addressing media production, consumption, policy, and effects across traditional and emerging platforms.
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Journalism | Investigative reporting, ethics, and professional practices in news media. |
| Mass Communication | Broadcasting, advertising, public relations, and audience studies. |
| Media Studies | Digital media, cultural impacts, and technological innovations. |
| Communication Theory | Interdisciplinary frameworks from sociology and psychology applied to media. |
Submissions must demonstrate methodological soundness and relevance to contemporary issues, with a preference for empirical studies using quantitative or qualitative approaches.
Key Journal Metrics
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor | 3.0 | Clarivate JCR 2022 |
| 5-Year Impact Factor | 3.2 | Clarivate JCR 2022 |
| CiteScore | 4.8 | Scopus 2022 |
| h-Index | 102 | Scopus |
| Acceptance Rate | Approximately 15% | Publisher data |
These metrics highlight the journal's selectivity and scholarly influence, with steady growth in citations over the past decade.
Indexing and Abstracting
Journalism & Mass Communication Quarterly is indexed in major databases, ensuring global discoverability. It appears in Clarivate's Web of Science (Social Sciences Citation Index), Scopus, EBSCOhost, ProQuest, and Google Scholar. Abstracting services include Communication & Mass Media Complete and MLA International Bibliography. This comprehensive coverage facilitates tracking of research impact and integration into academic workflows. Researchers benefit from DOAJ listing for open access articles, though the journal operates primarily as hybrid.
Publication Model and Fees
As a hybrid journal, it offers traditional subscription access alongside optional open access. SAGE Choice allows authors to make articles freely available upon payment of an Article Processing Charge (APC) of $3,000 USD. No fees apply for standard publication, but page charges may occur for excessive lengths. Subscriptions are managed through SAGE Journals platform, with institutional access widely available. The model supports equitable access while funding rigorous review processes.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Manuscripts are submitted via SAGE's ScholarOne platform at the journal's official site. Guidelines require double-anonymous review, with articles limited to 8,000 words, including references. Authors must adhere to APA style (7th edition) and provide abstracts of 150 words. The process involves initial editorial screening, followed by 2-3 peer reviews, typically taking 3-6 months. Ethical standards follow COPE guidelines, emphasizing originality and disclosure of conflicts. For detailed instructions, consult the journal homepage.
Editorial Board Highlights
The editorial team, led by Editor-in-Chief Zizi Papacharissi (University of Illinois at Chicago), comprises distinguished scholars from top institutions like Stanford and NYU. Associate editors specialize in areas such as digital journalism and media policy, ensuring diverse expertise. The board's international representation, including members from Europe and Asia, enriches global perspectives. Their collective h-index exceeds 500, reflecting unparalleled authority in Communication research.
Why Publish in Journalism & Mass Communication Quarterly?
Publishing in this journal elevates a researcher's career by associating with a venue of enduring prestige. Its high visibility leads to citations that bolster tenure and grant applications. The journal's focus on timely topics like misinformation and media literacy positions authors at the forefront of debates. Moreover, AEJMC affiliations offer networking at annual conferences. For Communication scholars, it's a gateway to influencing policy and education worldwide. Consider submitting your work to contribute to this esteemed tradition and enhance your academic footprint. Related resources include academic calendar for deadlines and higher ed jobs for career advancement.
Comparison with Similar Journals
| Journal | Impact Factor | Focus | Publisher |
|---|---|---|---|
| Journalism & Mass Communication Quarterly | 3.0 | Broad media and journalism | SAGE |
| Journal of Communication | 5.7 | Communication theory | Oxford |
| New Media & Society | 5.1 | Digital media | SAGE |
| Communication Research | 4.2 | Empirical media effects | SAGE |
| Journalism | 2.9 | Journalistic practices | SAGE |
This comparison illustrates JMCO's balanced position, offering accessibility with strong impact relative to peers.
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
- Align your manuscript with current calls, such as those on AI in journalism.
- Ensure robust methodology; mixed methods are favored.
- Craft a compelling abstract highlighting novelty.
- Seek pre-submission feedback from colleagues.
- Review recent issues for stylistic fit.
- Disclose all funding and adhere to inclusivity guidelines.
By following these tips, researchers can navigate the process effectively. For more guidance, explore PhD programs in Communication or tenure-track positions.