The Utah Journal of Communication (UJOC) welcomes submissions across all areas of communication research. We serve as a general forum for scholarly inquiry, embracing all theoretical approaches and research methods. Submissions should offer original contributions to academic communication studies and address critical, theoretical, or empirical questions relevant to scholars across specializations.
UJOC is fully open access, with no cost to authors or readers. While we especially welcome work from scholars in Utah or related to Utah, submissions are encouraged from anywhere in the world. Every manuscript receives equal consideration regardless of Utah affiliation. At least one article per issue will be reserved for a current master’s or doctoral student.
Original Research Articles
Requirements
- Abstract: 100–200 words
- Keywords: Five
- Length: 2,000–4,000 words (including references, tables, figures, notes)
- Formatting: APA 7th edition
Recommended Structure
- Title page
- Introduction
- Literature review
- Methodological summary
- Results and findings
- Discussion (impact and analysis)
- Conclusion (limitations and implications)
Manuscript must include:
- Title page with full article title, each author’s full name, and institutional affiliation
- Abstract with keywords
- Text formatted with APA-compliant headings
- Complete and accurate APA-formatted in-text citations and reference list
Book Reviews
Guidelines
- Length: 1,000–2,000 words
- Books should be published within the last three years
- Must be relevant to communication and aligned with reviewer expertise
- Avoid conflicts of interest (e.g., personal relationships, strong emotional opinions)
Review Should Include:
- Full citation details: author, title, publisher, date, edition, pages, price
- Reviewer name and institution
- Book’s topic, scope, and purpose
- Author’s background, perspective, and central thesis
- Intended audience
- Evaluation of contribution, clarity, and scholarly value
GIFT Articles (Great Ideas for Teaching)
Pedagogical submissions focused on innovative classroom practices in communication education.
Submission Types & Length
| Type | Description | Word Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Single Class Activity | One-time classroom activity | ≤ 1,500 |
| Unit Activity | Spans multiple days/weeks | ≤ 2,000 |
| Semester-Long Activity | Full course or project | ≤ 2,500 |
| Assessment Article | Data-driven research on instructional practices | ≤ 3,500 |
Topics may include research methods, media studies, technology, theory, intercultural, interpersonal, public speaking, PR, organizational, mass, or instructional communication.
Brief Reports
Shorter submissions offering clear value to communication scholars but may not meet full research rigor.
Submission Types
- Conceptual Paper
- Case Study
- Viewpoint
- Literature Review (only if comprehensive and current)
- Technical Report
Required Elements
- Title
- Submission type
- Abstract with up to five keywords
- Main text (APA headings as appropriate)
- Tables/figures (sparingly)
- References (APA 7)
Commentary Pieces
Concise, insight-driven examinations of communication issues that advance scholarly dialogue.
Accepted Forms:
- Critical reflections on emerging or contemporary issues
- Reassessments or extensions of seminal research
- Discussions of methodological innovation or disciplinary shifts
Requirements:
- Length: 2,000–2,500 words (including references)
- Abstract: 100–200 words with five keywords
- APA-compliant headings and references
- Anchored in relevant literature
- Clear academic value and well-supported arguments
Peer Review Process
All submissions are first evaluated by the UJOC Managing Board for alignment with scope and quality. Suitable manuscripts undergo double-blind review by two members of the Editorial Board. Final decisions are made by the Managing Board. Accepted manuscripts may be edited for clarity, style, grammar, or formatting without changing core meaning.
Upcoming Issues & Deadlines
| Issue Theme | Submission Deadline | Publication |
|---|---|---|
| General 4.1 | Feb 28, 2026 | May 2026 |
| Instructional 4.2 | Aug 31, 2026 | Nov 2026 |
| General 5.1 | Feb 28, 2027 | May 2027 |
| Technology 5.2 | Aug 31, 2027 | Nov 2027 |
| General 6.1 | Feb 28, 2028 | May 2028 |
| Video Games 6.2 | Aug 31, 2028 | Nov 2028 |
| General 7.1 | Feb 28, 2029 | May 2029 |
| Nature 7.2 | Aug 31, 2029 | Nov 2029 |
| General 8.1 | Feb 28, 2030 | May 2030 |
| GIFTs 2.2 | Aug 31, 2030 | Nov 2030 |
For submission details, formatting templates, or additional guidance, contact the UJOC Managing Board or visit the journal website.