Why Researchers Choose Studies in Higher Education for High-Impact Publications
Studies in Higher Education has established itself as a cornerstone in the field of higher education research since its inception in 1976. Published by Taylor & Francis, this quarterly journal attracts scholars worldwide who seek to advance understanding of university systems, teaching methodologies, and institutional leadership. Its rigorous peer-review process ensures that only the most innovative and methodologically sound studies see publication, making it a preferred choice for academics aiming to contribute to policy discussions and pedagogical improvements.
The journal's scope encompasses a broad spectrum of topics relevant to higher education, from student experiences and curriculum development to governance and funding models. Researchers appreciate its commitment to interdisciplinary approaches, blending insights from education, sociology, and economics. With a global readership, publishing here amplifies the reach of your work, often cited in international reports and national education strategies.
Key to its appeal is the journal's emphasis on practical implications. Articles frequently inform decision-making for university administrators, including presidents and vice chancellors, by addressing real-world challenges like equity in access and the integration of technology in learning. The editorial team, led by experts in the field, fosters a supportive environment for emerging scholars while upholding high standards for established researchers.
For those in leadership roles, Studies in Higher Education provides a platform to explore transformative strategies that enhance institutional effectiveness. Its archives offer a rich repository of case studies and theoretical frameworks that guide policy formulation. Whether you're investigating the impact of leadership styles on campus culture or evaluating assessment practices, this journal ensures your findings resonate with influencers in academia and beyond.
As higher education evolves amid digital shifts and demographic changes, Studies in Higher Education remains at the forefront, publishing timely analyses that shape future directions. Researchers value its balance of theoretical depth and empirical rigor, which not only bolsters academic profiles but also drives systemic change. To elevate your research trajectory, consider submitting to this influential venue and connect with opportunities in higher education leadership through higher ed jobs in leadership.
Overview & History
Founded in 1976, Studies in Higher Education emerged from the Society for Research into Higher Education (SRHE) to fill a gap in dedicated scholarship on post-secondary institutions. Initially published biannually, it transitioned to quarterly issues under Taylor & Francis in 2005, reflecting growing demand. Over four decades, it has chronicled the transformation of universities globally, from massification trends in the 1980s to contemporary issues like internationalization and sustainability.
The journal's evolution mirrors broader shifts in academia, adapting to include digital scholarship and open access elements. Its editorial policies have consistently prioritized diversity in authorship, drawing contributions from over 50 countries. This historical depth makes it an essential resource for understanding long-term patterns in higher education development.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
Studies in Higher Education focuses on empirical and theoretical research pertinent to higher education systems. It welcomes studies on teaching, learning, policy, and management, with a particular interest in leadership dynamics relevant to presidents and vice chancellors.
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Higher Education Policy | Analyses of governance, funding, and regulatory frameworks. |
| Educational Leadership | Explorations of administrative roles and institutional strategy. |
| Pedagogy and Curriculum | Innovations in teaching methods and program design. |
| Student Experience | Investigations into access, equity, and outcomes. |
| International Education | Comparative studies on global higher ed trends. |
Key Journal Metrics
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor (2022) | 3.7 | Clarivate Journal Citation Reports |
| 5-Year Impact Factor | 4.2 | Clarivate |
| CiteScore | 6.8 | Scopus |
| h-Index | 85 | Scopus |
| Acceptance Rate | 15-20% | Publisher data |
Indexing and Abstracting
Studies in Higher Education is indexed in major databases, ensuring wide discoverability. It appears in Scopus, Web of Science (Social Sciences Citation Index), ERIC, and EBSCOhost. These affiliations facilitate citations and accessibility for researchers worldwide. Additionally, it's listed in the Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ) for select open content, enhancing its reach in global searches.
Publication Model and Fees
The journal operates a hybrid model, offering subscription access with open access options via Taylor & Francis Open Select. Article Processing Charges (APCs) for open access are approximately $3,000 USD, with waivers available for authors from low-income countries. Subscription-based publication incurs no fees for authors, supported by institutional licenses. This flexibility accommodates diverse funding situations while promoting broader dissemination.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Manuscripts are submitted online via the ScholarOne platform at the journal's official site. Guidelines require original research up to 8,000 words, formatted in APA style with anonymized reviews. Initial screening checks for fit and ethics, followed by double-blind peer review averaging 3-4 months. Authors receive detailed feedback to refine submissions, emphasizing clarity and contribution to the field.
Editorial Board Highlights
The board comprises 20+ international scholars, chaired by Editor-in-Chief Gerard A. Postiglione from the University of Hong Kong. Members include experts like Angela Brew (Australia) in academic development and Simon Marginson (UK) in global higher education. Their diverse backgrounds ensure balanced perspectives on topics from leadership to innovation.
Why Publish in Studies in Higher Education?
Publishing here elevates your profile with high citation potential and networking opportunities through SRHE events. It targets influencers in academia, aiding career advancement for those in presidential roles. The journal's prestige supports grant applications and tenure dossiers, while its focus on impactful research aligns with institutional priorities.
Comparison with Similar Journals
| Journal | Impact Factor | Focus | Publisher |
|---|---|---|---|
| Higher Education | 3.0 | Policy and systems | Springer |
| Journal of Higher Education | 2.8 | US-centric studies | Taylor & Francis |
| Studies in Higher Education | 3.7 | International leadership | Taylor & Francis |
| Research in Higher Education | 2.5 | Quantitative methods | Springer |
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
- Align your work with current calls, such as leadership in diverse institutions.
- Use robust methodologies; mixed methods are favored.
- Highlight implications for practice to appeal to vice chancellors.
- Engage with recent issues for literature gaps.
- Seek pre-submission feedback via rate my professor resources.
Explore academic timelines with our academic calendar to plan submissions effectively. Additional links: higher ed jobs administrative roles, tenure track opportunities, education policy jobs, university leadership positions, faculty development resources, higher education research grants, academic publishing tips, global higher ed networks, institutional research tools, leadership training programs, equity in higher ed, digital learning initiatives.
External resources: Official Journal Homepage, Clarivate JCR, Scopus.