Journal of Communication

The Journal of Communication (J COMMUN, ISSN 0021-9916) is a premier peer-reviewed academic journal published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the International Communication Association. As a flagship publication in the field, the journal boasts an impressive 2026 Impact Factor of 5.300 and holds a Q1 quartile ranking in the Journal Citation Reports, solidifying its status as one of the most influential and highly cited outlets in communication studies. The journal’s scope is comprehensive, encompassing the full breadth of communication research, including mass communication, interpersonal communication, political communication, organizational communication, health communication, and new media technologies. It particularly values work that bridges theoretical innovation with empirical rigor, and that addresses significant social, cultural, or political issues. The Journal of Communication primarily publishes full-length original research articles that advance understanding of communication processes, alongside occasional review essays and theoretical syntheses. The target audience is broad, comprising academic researchers, graduate students, and policy professionals who seek cutting-edge, methodologically diverse scholarship. Notable features include its rigorous double-anonymous peer review process and its status as the official journal of the International Communication Association, which ensures a global perspective and a commitment to scholarly excellence. While the journal offers a subscription-based model, authors may choose to publish their work open access for a fee, thereby increasing the visibility and impact of their research. With its sustained high impact factor and top-tier JCR quartile, the Journal of Communication remains an essential resource for anyone seeking the most authoritative and influential work in the communication discipline.