Why Researchers Choose PS: Political Science & Politics for High-Impact Publications
PS: Political Science & Politics stands as a cornerstone in the field of political science, offering a unique platform for scholars to disseminate innovative research and commentary. Published by Cambridge University Press on behalf of the American Political Science Association (APSA), this journal has been a vital resource since 1968. It bridges the gap between academic inquiry and practical application, featuring articles, essays, and features that address contemporary political issues, teaching strategies, and professional development in political science.
The journal's appeal lies in its broad yet focused scope, encompassing everything from theoretical advancements to empirical analyses of political behavior, institutions, and policy. With a commitment to accessibility and relevance, PS: Political Science & Politics publishes content that resonates with both seasoned researchers and emerging scholars. Its rigorous peer-review process ensures high standards, making it a preferred choice for those seeking to influence the discourse in political science.
Researchers value PS: Political Science & Politics for its role in fostering interdisciplinary dialogue. Whether exploring global governance, domestic policy challenges, or methodological innovations, the journal provides a space for nuanced discussions. Its impact is evident in citations across academia, policy circles, and media, underscoring its prestige. For those aiming to publish in PS: Political Science & Politics, the emphasis on clear, engaging writing enhances visibility and career advancement.
As political landscapes evolve, the journal adapts by highlighting timely topics like democratic resilience and international relations. This dynamic approach attracts submissions from diverse geographical and institutional backgrounds, enriching the field. To explore opportunities in political science academia, consider browsing political science faculty positions or checking the academic calendar for key deadlines.
Overview & History
Established in 1968, PS: Political Science & Politics emerged as the official journal of the APSA to serve the profession's needs beyond traditional research articles. It was designed to cover professional issues, syllabi, and debates within political science. Over the decades, it has evolved to include special symposia on pressing topics like elections, ethics, and global politics. Today, it remains a quarterly publication that balances scholarly depth with practical utility, reaching over 10,000 subscribers worldwide.
The journal's history reflects the growth of political science as a discipline. From its early focus on teaching aids to contemporary analyses of political phenomena, PS: Political Science & Politics has documented key shifts, such as the rise of computational methods and diversity in academia. Its affiliation with APSA ensures alignment with the field's leading voices, making it indispensable for staying informed.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
PS: Political Science & Politics welcomes submissions across a wide array of subfields, emphasizing relevance to the profession. Key areas include political theory, comparative politics, international relations, American politics, public policy, and public administration. It also features sections on teaching and learning, professional life, and book reviews.
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Political Theory | Explores foundational concepts and normative questions in politics. |
| Comparative Politics | Analyzes political systems and processes across countries. |
| International Relations | Covers global interactions, security, and diplomacy. |
| American Politics | Focuses on U.S. institutions, elections, and policy. |
| Public Policy | Examines policy formulation, implementation, and evaluation. |
| Public Administration | Addresses governance, bureaucracy, and public management. |
Key Journal Metrics
PS: Political Science & Politics maintains strong metrics that reflect its influence in the discipline. These indicators help researchers assess its suitability for submissions.
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor | 1.057 | Clarivate JCR 2022 |
| CiteScore | 2.0 | Scopus 2023 |
| h-Index | 45 | Scopus |
| Acceptance Rate | Not publicly disclosed | N/A |
| Average Review Time | 3 months | Publisher data |
Indexing and Abstracting
The journal is widely indexed, ensuring broad discoverability. It appears in Scopus, Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), PAIS International, and JSTOR. These databases facilitate access for researchers globally, enhancing citation potential. DOAJ lists it for open access content, while Sherpa/RoMEO confirms self-archiving policies.
Publication Model and Fees
PS: Political Science & Politics operates on a hybrid model, offering both subscription-based and open access options. Traditional publication is free for authors, with Cambridge University Press handling distribution. For open access, an Article Processing Charge (APC) of approximately $3,000 applies, waivable for APSA members in certain cases. This model supports wide dissemination while maintaining quality.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Submissions are managed through the ScholarOne platform at the journal's official site. Authors should prepare manuscripts in Word or LaTeX, adhering to APSA style guidelines (double-spaced, 8,000-word limit for articles). Anonymized reviews ensure fairness. Key steps include registering an account, uploading files, and suggesting reviewers. Detailed guidelines emphasize originality and relevance to political science practice.
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Editorial Board Highlights
The editorial team, led by Editor-in-Chief Laura Neack, comprises distinguished scholars from top institutions like Ohio State University and the University of Michigan. Associate editors specialize in subfields, bringing expertise in quantitative methods and policy analysis. Their diverse backgrounds ensure balanced perspectives, with board members from the U.S., Europe, and beyond.
Why Publish in PS: Political Science & Politics?
Publishing here offers visibility among APSA's network, rapid dissemination, and opportunities for symposia participation. It bolsters CVs for tenure and grants, with a focus on practical impact. Variations like 'publish in PS: Political Science & Politics' highlight its submission value for career progression.
Comparison with Similar Journals
PS: Political Science & Politics differentiates through its professional focus compared to research-heavy peers.
| Journal | Impact Factor | Scope Focus | Publisher |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Political Science Review | 5.832 | Core research | Cambridge |
| Journal of Politics | 3.745 | Empirical studies | University of Chicago |
| Perspectives on Politics | 4.128 | Interdisciplinary | Cambridge |
| PS: Political Science & Politics | 1.057 | Professional & teaching | Cambridge |
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
To succeed, tailor abstracts to the journal's dual audience of scholars and practitioners. Use clear language, incorporate data visualizations, and align with current APSA themes. Revise based on feedback, and leverage political science PhD programs resources. Network via conferences for insights. Always check research positions to stay updated.