Why Researchers Choose Political Communication for High-Impact Publications
Political Communication stands as a cornerstone in the intersection of politics and media, offering researchers a premier venue to publish groundbreaking studies on how communication shapes political processes. Established in 1984 by Taylor & Francis, this quarterly journal has evolved into a vital resource for scholars examining the dynamics of political messaging, public opinion, and media influence. With a focus on empirical and theoretical work, it attracts contributions from political scientists, communication experts, and interdisciplinary researchers worldwide.
The journal's prestige is underscored by its consistent recognition in top indexing services, making it a go-to choice for those aiming to disseminate influential research. Its rigorous peer-review process ensures high standards, while its broad scope covers everything from election campaigns and digital media to policy discourse and international relations. Researchers value Political Communication for its ability to reach a global audience, fostering citations and collaborations that advance the field.
Whether exploring the role of social media in polarization or analyzing rhetorical strategies in governance, the journal provides a platform for innovative insights. Its hybrid open access model allows authors to maximize visibility without compromising quality. For academics seeking to impact policy debates and scholarly conversations, publishing here offers enduring recognition.
In an era where political communication drives societal change, this journal equips researchers with tools to address pressing issues like misinformation and democratic engagement. To explore opportunities in academia, consider browsing Political Science Jobs or checking the Academic Calendar for key deadlines. Ready to submit your work? Visit the official site to start your journey toward publication success.
Overview & History
Political Communication was founded in 1984 to bridge the gap between political science and communication studies. Published by Taylor & Francis, a renowned academic publisher based in the United Kingdom, it has grown from a niche outlet into a flagship journal. Over the decades, it has chronicled the transformation of political discourse amid technological advancements, from traditional broadcasting to digital platforms.
The journal's editorial team emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, inviting submissions that integrate quantitative and qualitative methods. Its history reflects the evolving landscape of media-politics interactions, with special issues on topics like the 2008 U.S. election and the rise of populism. Today, it remains committed to fostering dialogue on how communication influences power structures globally.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
Political Communication encompasses a wide array of topics at the nexus of politics and media. It prioritizes research on media effects, political campaigns, journalism's role in democracy, and communication theories applied to governance. The journal welcomes studies on digital communication, public relations, and international political rhetoric.
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Political Science | Core focus on political behavior, institutions, and policy through communication lenses. |
| Communication Studies | Analysis of media framing, audience reception, and message strategies. |
| Media Studies | Examination of digital platforms, journalism ethics, and information flows. |
| Psychology | Insights into political attitudes, persuasion, and cognitive effects of media. |
| International Relations | Global perspectives on propaganda, diplomacy, and cross-cultural communication. |
This multidisciplinary scope ensures diverse contributions, appealing to researchers in related fields. For career advancement, review Communication Faculty Positions.
Key Journal Metrics
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor (2023) | 4.2 | Clarivate JCR |
| 5-Year Impact Factor | 4.8 | Clarivate JCR |
| CiteScore | 6.5 | Scopus |
| h-Index | 85 | Scopus |
| Acceptance Rate | Not publicly disclosed | N/A |
These metrics highlight the journal's influence, with steady growth in citations. Track your progress with Rate My Professor tools.
Indexing and Abstracting
Political Communication is indexed in leading databases, ensuring wide discoverability. It appears in Clarivate Web of Science (SSCI), Scopus, and Google Scholar. Additional coverage includes EBSCO, ProQuest, and JSTOR, facilitating access for global researchers. This indexing supports high visibility and archival stability for published articles.
- Clarivate Journal Citation Reports
- Scopus Abstract & Citation Database
- Social Sciences Citation Index
- International Bibliography of the Social Sciences
For database navigation tips, see Indexing Guide.
Publication Model and Fees
The journal operates on a hybrid model, offering both subscription access and open access options. Authors can publish under traditional subscription or choose gold open access with an Article Processing Charge (APC) of $3,000 USD, covering peer review and dissemination. Waivers are available for corresponding authors from low-income countries via Research4Life. No page charges apply for subscription articles.
This flexibility accommodates various funding sources, promoting equitable access. Explore funding opportunities through Research Grants.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Submissions are handled via the Taylor & Francis online portal, ScholarOne Manuscripts. Manuscripts should be original, up to 8,000 words, with abstracts and keywords. Follow APA style for citations. The process includes initial screening, double-anonymized peer review (average 3-4 months), and revisions. Ethical guidelines adhere to COPE standards.
Prepare your submission by reviewing author guidelines on the official site. For timeline management, consult the Academic Calendar.
Editorial Board Highlights
The editorial board comprises distinguished scholars from top institutions. Editor-in-Chief Ann Crigler (USC) leads with expertise in media effects. Notable members include Dietram Scheufele (UW-Madison) on science communication and Natalie Stroud (UT Austin) on political psychology. International representation from Europe and Asia ensures diverse perspectives.
This team's rigor elevates the journal's quality. Connect with peers via Networking Events.
Why Publish in Political Communication?
Publishing here amplifies your research's reach, with articles often cited in policy reports and media. The journal's Q1 ranking in Political Science and Communication enhances CVs for tenure and grants. Its focus on timely topics like digital democracy positions authors as thought leaders. Global readership, including policymakers, extends impact beyond academia.
Benefits include rapid online publication and DOI assignment. For aspiring academics, this prestige opens doors to Political Science Professor Roles.
Comparison with Similar Journals
| Journal | Publisher | Impact Factor | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Political Communication | Taylor & Francis | 4.2 | Media-politics intersection, empirical studies |
| Journal of Communication | Oxford University Press | 5.3 | Broad communication, less politics-specific |
| Public Opinion Quarterly | Oxford University Press | 3.9 | Survey methods, opinion dynamics |
| Communication Research | SAGE | 4.5 | Media effects, general communication |
| International Journal of Press/Politics | SAGE | 3.7 | Journalism and political coverage |
This comparison shows Political Communication's strong positioning in niche impact. Evaluate options with Journal Comparison.
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
To succeed, align your work with current calls, such as digital misinformation. Ensure methodological robustness and theoretical novelty. Engage reviewers by addressing interdisciplinary angles. Proofread meticulously and seek pre-submission feedback from colleagues.
- Highlight real-world implications
- Use clear, concise language
- Include diverse citations
- Follow ethical disclosure rules
For preparation, visit Submission Tips or explore Media Studies Positions.