Policing: An International Journal – Police and Public Safety Journal Guide for Researchers

Why Researchers Choose Policing: An International Journal for High-Impact Publications

Policing: An International Journal serves as a vital platform for advancing knowledge in police studies and public safety. Established as a leading peer-reviewed publication, it attracts contributions from scholars worldwide who seek to address contemporary challenges in law enforcement, criminal justice, and community security. The journal's commitment to interdisciplinary research ensures that articles explore not only theoretical frameworks but also practical implications for policing strategies and policies.

Researchers value Policing: An International Journal for its rigorous editorial process, which upholds high standards of academic integrity and innovation. With a focus on empirical studies, theoretical analyses, and policy-oriented discussions, the journal bridges the gap between academia and real-world applications. Its international scope allows for diverse perspectives, including comparative policing models from various regions, enhancing the global relevance of published work.

The publication's impact is evident in its indexing across major databases, facilitating wide dissemination and citation potential. For those in police and public safety fields, submitting to Policing: An International Journal means contributing to a body of work that shapes future directions in the discipline. Whether examining use-of-force policies, community policing initiatives, or technological advancements in surveillance, the journal provides a forum for cutting-edge scholarship.

As the journal continues to evolve, it remains dedicated to fostering dialogue on ethical issues, organizational dynamics, and societal impacts of policing. This dedication makes it an ideal choice for academics aiming to amplify their research influence. To explore career opportunities in this field, visit our higher education jobs section and discover positions that align with your expertise in police studies.

Overview & History

Policing: An International Journal was launched in 1998 by Emerald Publishing, filling a critical need for specialized scholarship in law enforcement and public safety. Initially focused on UK and European contexts, it quickly expanded to include global contributions, reflecting the transnational nature of modern policing challenges. Over the years, the journal has published groundbreaking research on topics ranging from counter-terrorism strategies to restorative justice practices.

Under the guidance of successive editorial teams, Policing: An International Journal has maintained its reputation for quality, with special issues dedicated to emerging issues like digital policing and pandemic responses. Its evolution mirrors shifts in the field, from traditional crime control to proactive community engagement models. Today, it stands as a cornerstone resource for criminologists, policymakers, and practitioners seeking evidence-based insights.

Scope and Disciplines Covered

The journal encompasses a broad spectrum of topics within police and public safety, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches. Contributions are welcomed on theoretical, empirical, and applied research that advances understanding of policing phenomena.

These disciplines ensure comprehensive coverage, with articles often integrating multiple perspectives to provide holistic analyses.

Key Journal Metrics

These metrics highlight the journal's influence and selectivity, making it a desirable venue for impactful research.

Indexing and Abstracting

Policing: An International Journal is indexed in prestigious databases, ensuring visibility and accessibility. Key indexers include Scopus, Web of Science (Social Sciences Citation Index), and Criminal Justice Abstracts. For full details, visit the official journal homepage. Additional coverage in EBSCOhost, ProQuest, and Google Scholar supports broad discoverability for researchers worldwide.

Publication Model and Fees

The journal operates a hybrid model, offering both subscription-based and open access options. Authors can publish traditionally with no fees or choose gold open access for immediate free availability. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for open access is £2,510 (approximately $3,200 USD), waivable under certain conditions for authors from low-income countries. Emerald Publishing covers production costs through subscriptions, maintaining affordability. Review policies align with Sherpa/RoMEO green archiving rights, allowing preprint sharing.

Submission Process and Guidelines

Submissions to Policing: An International Journal are handled via the ScholarOne platform. Authors must prepare manuscripts according to APA style, with a maximum of 8,000 words, including abstracts and references. Initial checks ensure originality via iThenticate, followed by double-anonymous peer review. Average time from submission to first decision is 6-8 weeks. Detailed guidelines are available on the journal site. For tips on academic publishing, check our academic calendar for deadlines.

Editorial Board Highlights

The editorial board comprises distinguished scholars from leading institutions. Editor-in-Chief Jennifer D. Wood from De Montfort University brings expertise in evidence-based policing. Other key members include Dilip K. Das (International Police Executive Academy) and Nick Fyfe (University of Dundee), ensuring diverse geographical and thematic representation. Their collective experience guides the journal's direction toward innovative and ethical scholarship.

Why Publish in Policing: An International Journal?

Publishing in Policing: An International Journal offers researchers enhanced visibility and credibility in police and public safety domains. With its solid impact factor and international readership, articles gain traction among academics, practitioners, and policymakers. The journal's focus on timely topics like procedural justice and police reform positions contributions at the forefront of debates. Moreover, Emerald's marketing amplifies reach through alerts and social media. For career advancement, consider how such publications boost profiles—explore Rate My Professor for insights into academic reputations.

Comparison with Similar Journals

This comparison underscores Policing: An International Journal's competitive standing in scope and metrics.

Researcher Tips for Successful Submission

To succeed with submissions to Policing: An International Journal, prioritize originality and relevance to current debates. Conduct thorough literature reviews and employ robust methodologies, such as mixed-methods approaches. Engage with interdisciplinary angles to broaden appeal. Proofread meticulously and adhere to ethical standards, including IRB approvals. Networking via conferences can provide feedback pre-submission. For related opportunities, browse PhD programs in criminology to build expertise.