Why Researchers Choose Review of Higher Education for High-Impact Publications
Review of Higher Education has established itself as a cornerstone in the field of higher education scholarship since its inception in 1977. Published by Johns Hopkins University Press, this quarterly journal delves into critical issues affecting colleges and universities, with a particular emphasis on faculty affairs, educational policy, and institutional governance. Researchers are drawn to its rigorous editorial standards and commitment to advancing knowledge that informs practice and policy in academia.
The journal's scope encompasses a wide array of topics, from faculty development and tenure processes to diversity initiatives and administrative challenges in higher education. Its impact factor of 2.9, as reported by Clarivate Journal Citation Reports for 2022, underscores its influence within the academic community. Articles published here often shape debates on equity, access, and innovation in postsecondary education, making it a valuable venue for scholars aiming to contribute to meaningful discourse.
With a focus on empirical research, theoretical analyses, and policy-oriented studies, Review of Higher Education ensures that contributions are both intellectually robust and practically relevant. The peer-review process, known for its thoroughness, typically takes 3-6 months, providing authors with constructive feedback to refine their work. Indexing in major databases like Scopus and Web of Science amplifies the visibility of published research, reaching audiences worldwide.
For researchers in faculty affairs, the journal offers a platform to explore pressing concerns such as workload equity, mentoring programs, and leadership transitions. Its interdisciplinary approach welcomes insights from education, sociology, and public policy, fostering collaborations that enrich the field. Submission guidelines emphasize originality and methodological soundness, encouraging manuscripts that address contemporary challenges in higher education.
As higher education evolves amid technological advancements and societal shifts, Review of Higher Education remains at the forefront, publishing work that guides institutional change. Scholars benefit from its established reputation, which enhances career profiles and citation potential. To explore opportunities in faculty positions that align with these themes, consider browsing faculty affairs positions available through AcademicJobs.com.
Overview & History
Founded in 1977, Review of Higher Education emerged as a response to the growing need for dedicated scholarship on postsecondary institutions. Initially published by the Association for the Study of Higher Education, it transitioned to Johns Hopkins University Press in 2001, enhancing its production quality and distribution. Over the decades, the journal has chronicled key transformations in American higher education, from the expansion of access in the 1980s to contemporary issues like online learning and inclusivity.
Its editorial mission prioritizes research that bridges theory and practice, making it indispensable for academics, administrators, and policymakers. The journal's evolution reflects broader trends, incorporating digital humanities and data-driven analyses in recent volumes. With a circulation that includes leading universities and libraries, it maintains a strong presence in the global academic landscape.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
Review of Higher Education covers a broad spectrum of topics within higher education, emphasizing faculty affairs as a core area. Manuscripts should address issues relevant to teaching, research, and service in postsecondary settings. The journal welcomes quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods studies that advance understanding of educational environments.
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Higher Education Policy | Analyses of governance, funding, and regulatory frameworks shaping colleges and universities. |
| Faculty Development | Research on professional growth, mentoring, and evaluation practices for academic staff. |
| Educational Leadership | Studies on administrative roles, decision-making, and organizational culture in academia. |
| Diversity and Equity | Investigations into inclusion, access, and social justice initiatives in higher education. |
| Curriculum and Pedagogy | Explorations of teaching innovations, assessment, and learning outcomes. |
These disciplines align with the journal's goal of fostering interdisciplinary dialogue, ensuring contributions resonate across educational subfields.
Key Journal Metrics
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor (2022) | 2.9 | Clarivate JCR |
| 5-Year Impact Factor | 3.2 | Clarivate JCR |
| CiteScore | 4.8 | Scopus |
| h-Index | 78 | Scopus |
| Acceptance Rate | Not publicly disclosed | N/A |
These metrics highlight the journal's standing, with steady growth in citations reflecting its relevance to ongoing scholarly conversations.
Indexing and Abstracting
Review of Higher Education is indexed in prestigious databases, ensuring wide discoverability. Key services include Web of Science, Scopus, ERIC, and ProQuest Education Journals. This coverage facilitates tracking of research impact and integration into literature reviews. Authors can access abstracts via Scopus, enhancing global exposure.
Publication Model and Fees
The journal operates on a hybrid model, offering subscription access with open access options. There are no article processing charges (APCs) for standard submissions, though open access publication incurs a fee of approximately $3,000, covered by institutional agreements in some cases. According to Sherpa/RoMEO, it follows a green open access policy, allowing authors to archive preprints. This structure supports accessibility while maintaining financial sustainability.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Submissions are handled through the journal's online portal at the publisher's site. Manuscripts must be original, anonymized for blind review, and formatted per APA style, typically 8,000-10,000 words. Authors submit via the official submission system. Guidelines stress clear abstracts, ethical compliance, and relevance to higher education. Revisions are common, with decisions issued within 3-6 months.
Editorial Board Highlights
The editorial board comprises distinguished scholars from top institutions. Editor-in-Chief Marcelo G. Sosa, from the University of Pennsylvania, brings expertise in educational policy. Other members include specialists in faculty affairs from Stanford and Harvard, ensuring diverse perspectives. Their collective experience guides the journal's direction, prioritizing innovative and equitable research.
Why Publish in Review of Higher Education?
Publishing here elevates a researcher's profile due to the journal's prestige and readership among influencers in academia. It offers opportunities for citation accrual and networking. For those in faculty affairs, it provides a venue to influence policy and practice. Compared to peers, its focus on practical implications sets it apart, aiding career advancement. Explore related resources like Rate My Professor for insights into academic environments.
Comparison with Similar Journals
| Journal | Impact Factor | Focus | Publisher |
|---|---|---|---|
| Journal of Higher Education | 3.5 | Broad higher ed research | Taylor & Francis |
| Higher Education | 3.0 | International perspectives | Springer |
| Studies in Higher Education | 3.4 | Pedagogy and policy | Taylor & Francis |
| Review of Higher Education | 2.9 | Faculty affairs emphasis | JHU Press |
This comparison illustrates Review of Higher Education's competitive edge in faculty-centric scholarship, with a balanced impact profile.
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
- Align your manuscript closely with current calls, such as those on equity in faculty hiring.
- Employ robust methods and engage with recent literature to demonstrate novelty.
- Seek feedback from colleagues before submission to strengthen arguments.
- Review past issues for stylistic fit; for example, empirical pieces often include detailed appendices.
- Prepare for revisions by anticipating reviewer concerns on generalizability.
Incorporate interdisciplinary angles to broaden appeal. For academic planning, check the academic calendar to time submissions effectively. Additional links: higher ed jobs, tenure track opportunities, education policy roles, diversity in academia, leadership positions, pedagogy resources, institutional research, faculty development programs.