Why Researchers Choose Quality in Higher Education for High-Impact Publications
Quality in Higher Education stands as a premier outlet for scholars examining the intricacies of quality assurance in university settings. Published by Taylor & Francis since 1995, this journal delves into critical areas such as assessment practices, accreditation standards, and compliance frameworks that shape global higher education landscapes. With a focus on empirical research, theoretical advancements, and policy implications, it attracts contributions from academics worldwide who aim to influence institutional improvements and educational reforms.
The journal's rigorous peer-review process ensures that only high-caliber studies see publication, making it a trusted resource for deans, policymakers, and researchers alike. Its scope encompasses everything from evaluation methodologies to governance models, providing a platform where interdisciplinary insights converge to address contemporary challenges like digital transformation in accreditation and equity in assessment. Researchers value its commitment to open dialogue on quality metrics, often citing its role in advancing evidence-based practices that enhance student outcomes and institutional accountability.
Key to its appeal is the journal's international perspective, drawing on cases from diverse regions while rooted in United Kingdom-based editorial oversight. Whether exploring the impact of regulatory changes or innovative quality control systems, Quality in Higher Education fosters discussions that bridge theory and practice. For those navigating the competitive world of academic publishing, submitting here offers visibility among leaders in education policy and administration.
As higher education evolves amid rapid technological and societal shifts, this journal remains essential for staying ahead. Its publications inform strategic decisions at universities and contribute to broader debates on educational excellence. To explore career opportunities in this field, check out higher education assessment positions.
Overview & History
Launched in 1995 by Taylor & Francis, Quality in Higher Education emerged to address the growing emphasis on quality management in post-secondary institutions. Initially focused on European contexts, it quickly expanded to include global perspectives, reflecting the internationalization of higher education. Over nearly three decades, the journal has chronicled shifts from traditional quality controls to modern, data-driven approaches influenced by globalization and accountability demands.
Under the ISSN 1353-8320 for print and 1470-1086 for electronic versions, it has published influential works on themes like performance indicators and stakeholder engagement. The editorial team, led by experts in education policy, ensures content remains relevant to ongoing reforms. This historical evolution positions it as a foundational resource for understanding how quality paradigms have developed in response to economic, political, and technological pressures.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
Quality in Higher Education covers a broad yet focused array of topics centered on enhancing institutional performance. It welcomes manuscripts on quality assurance strategies, evaluation techniques, and regulatory compliance across various educational systems.
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Assessment | Methods for measuring learning outcomes and program effectiveness. |
| Accreditation | Processes and standards for institutional recognition and improvement. |
| Compliance | Adherence to legal, ethical, and policy frameworks in education. |
| Higher Education Policy | Analysis of governance and quality management policies. |
| Quality Assurance | Systems for continuous improvement and risk management. |
These disciplines intersect to support research that informs practical applications, from curriculum design to leadership training.
Key Journal Metrics
| Metric | Value | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor | 1.9 | 2022 Clarivate Journal Citation Reports. |
| 5-Year Impact Factor | 2.1 | Reflects sustained influence in the field. |
| CiteScore | 3.2 | Scopus-based metric for citation trends. |
| Acceptance Rate | 25% | Competitive selection for quality submissions. |
| Publication Frequency | Quarterly | Four issues per year. |
These metrics highlight the journal's solid standing, with steady growth in citations from education and policy scholars.
Indexing and Abstracting
Quality in Higher Education is indexed in major databases, ensuring wide discoverability. It appears in Web of Science (Social Sciences Citation Index), Scopus, and ERIC, facilitating access for researchers globally. Additional coverage includes EBSCOhost and ProQuest, which support interdisciplinary searches. This indexing enhances citation potential and archival permanence, making articles readily available through Scopus and Web of Science. For open access options, it aligns with DOAJ principles where applicable.
Publication Model and Fees
The journal operates on a hybrid model, offering both subscription-based and open access pathways. Authors can publish traditionally with no fees or opt for gold open access via Taylor & Francis Open Select, incurring an Article Processing Charge (APC) of approximately $3,000 USD, which may be waived for certain regions or funded projects. This flexibility accommodates diverse funding situations while promoting accessibility. Page charges do not apply, and the publisher covers production costs for subscription articles.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Submissions are handled through the ScholarOne Manuscripts platform at Quality in Higher Education submission portal. Authors must adhere to guidelines including double-anonymized review, 8,000-word limit, and APA referencing. Initial checks ensure originality via iThenticate, followed by editorial assignment to two reviewers. Average review time is 3-4 months, with decisions communicated promptly. Focus on clear abstracts, robust methodologies, and implications for practice to strengthen chances.
Editorial Board Highlights
The board comprises distinguished scholars from institutions like the University of Bath and international collaborators. Editor-in-Chief Dr. Maria Kuteeva oversees content integrity, bringing expertise in quality metrics. Members include specialists in accreditation from Asia and Europe, ensuring diverse viewpoints. Their collective experience spans decades, guiding the journal toward cutting-edge topics like AI in assessment.
Why Publish in Quality in Higher Education?
Publishing here elevates a researcher's profile in a niche yet vital field. With targeted readership among administrators and academics, articles gain traction in policy circles. The journal's emphasis on actionable insights leads to real-world applications, boosting citation rates. For career advancement, see how this aligns with professor ratings in higher education. Its reputation for fairness in review processes builds trust, making it a strategic choice for tenure-track faculty.
Comparison with Similar Journals
| Journal | Impact Factor | Focus | Publisher |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quality in Higher Education | 1.9 | Assessment & Compliance | Taylor & Francis |
| Higher Education | 3.0 | Broad Policy | Springer |
| Studies in Higher Education | 4.5 | Pedagogy & Research | Taylor & Francis |
| Assessment & Evaluation in Higher Education | 2.8 | Evaluation Methods | Taylor & Francis |
This comparison shows Quality in Higher Education's balanced metrics and specialized scope, ideal for targeted impact without the broader competition of larger titles.
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
- Align your work closely with current calls on accreditation trends.
- Use empirical data to support claims, avoiding purely theoretical pieces.
- Incorporate global comparisons for broader appeal.
- Check academic calendars for deadlines to time submissions effectively.
- Seek feedback from peers before finalizing manuscripts.
These strategies, drawn from successful authors, can significantly improve acceptance odds. For more resources, explore PhD programs in education policy or quality assurance jobs.