{"id":1135,"date":"2026-09-24T13:39:32","date_gmt":"2026-09-24T13:39:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/alkademy.com\/blog\/?p=1135"},"modified":"2026-09-24T13:39:42","modified_gmt":"2026-09-24T13:39:42","slug":"how-to-start-an-academic-journal","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/alkademy.com\/blog\/how-to-start-an-academic-journal\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Start an Academic Journal: A Step-by-Step Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Learn how to start an academic journal, from defining its scope and building an editorial team to managing peer review, publishing, indexing, and archiving.<\/em><br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"tl-dr\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>TL;DR<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Starting an academic journal requires a clear purpose, audience, and publishing scope.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A strong editorial team and clear policies help maintain publishing quality.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A structured workflow is essential for managing submissions, peer review, and publications.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Journal management software can simplify editorial operations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Long-term success depends on consistency, discoverability, and proper journal management.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Starting an academic journal involves more than collecting research papers and making them available online.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A successful journal needs a clear purpose, defined subject area, reliable editorial processes, and a system for maintaining publishing standards over time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before launching a journal, publishers need to make important decisions about the journal\u2019s scope, target audience, editorial structure, peer review process, publishing policies, and how manuscripts will move from submission to publication.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/press.alkademy.com\/\">Alkademy Press<\/a> is a journal publishing platform that helps publishers manage the complete journal workflow, including manuscript submissions, peer review, editorial processes, publications, and journal records.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By providing structured tools for managing these activities, Alkademy Press helps publishers create a more organised and efficient approach to running academic journals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-rank-math-toc-block\" id=\"rank-math-toc\"><h2>Table of Contents<\/h2><nav><ul><li><a href=\"#tl-dr\">TL;DR<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#how-to-start-an-academic-journal\">How to Start an Academic Journal<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#how-alkademy-press-supports-academic-journal-publishing\">How Alkademy Press Supports Academic Journal Publishing<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#common-mistakes-when-starting-an-academic-journal\">Common Mistakes When Starting an Academic Journal<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#how-much-does-it-cost-to-start-an-academic-journal\">How Much Does It Cost to Start an Academic Journal?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#how-long-does-it-take-to-start-an-academic-journal\">How Long Does It Take to Start an Academic Journal?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#fa-qs\">FAQs<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#final-thoughts-on-how-to-start-an-academic-journal\">Final Thoughts on How to Start an Academic Journal<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"how-to-start-an-academic-journal\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How to Start an Academic Journal<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"define-the-journals-purpose-and-scope\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Define the Journal&#8217;s Purpose and Scope<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The first step in starting an academic <a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Journal\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">journal<\/a> is deciding what the journal will focus on and who it will serve.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A clear scope helps attract the right authors, reviewers, and readers while giving the journal a distinct identity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Consider the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Identify the academic field or research area the journal will cover.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Define the topics and types of research the journal will publish.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Understand who the target readers and contributors are.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Decide whether the journal will focus on a specific discipline or cover multiple fields.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Review existing journals to identify gaps or opportunities.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A strong aims and scope statement should clearly explain what the journal publishes, who it is intended for, and what types of submissions fall outside its focus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"choose-a-name-for-the-journal\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Choose a Name for the Journal<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A journal name plays an important role in how researchers discover and recognise the publication.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It should be clear, relevant, and easy to distinguish from existing journals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When choosing a name:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Select a name that reflects the journal\u2019s subject area.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Check that the name is not already being used by another publication.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Consider how the name will appear in academic databases and citations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Choose a name that can support the journal\u2019s long-term growth.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A well-chosen name helps establish the journal\u2019s identity and makes it easier for authors and readers to find it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"build-an-editorial-team\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Build an Editorial Team<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A strong editorial team provides the expertise and oversight needed to maintain the quality of a journal.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Each role should have clear responsibilities to ensure manuscripts are reviewed and managed properly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Key roles include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Editor-in-Chief:<\/strong> Provides overall direction and makes final editorial decisions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Managing Editor:<\/strong> Oversees daily operations and coordinates workflows.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Associate Editors:<\/strong> Manage submissions within specific subject areas.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Editorial Board Members:<\/strong> Provide academic guidance and support the journal\u2019s reputation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Peer Reviewers:<\/strong> Evaluate submitted manuscripts and provide feedback.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Production Support Staff:<\/strong> Assist with editing, formatting, and publication processes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When building an editorial team, select individuals with relevant expertise and clearly define their responsibilities from the beginning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"create-editorial-policies\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Create Editorial Policies<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Editorial policies provide the foundation for fair, transparent, and consistent publishing practices.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They help authors, reviewers, and editors understand how the journal operates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Important policies include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Peer review process<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Publication ethics<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Plagiarism policy<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Authorship guidelines<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Conflicts of interest<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Corrections and retractions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Copyright and licensing<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Clear policies also help journals build trust with researchers by showing their commitment to responsible academic publishing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"decide-what-types-of-articles-to-publish\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Decide What Types of Articles to Publish<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before accepting submissions, decide which types of content the journal will publish.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This gives authors a clearer idea of what to submit and helps editors apply consistent standards during the review process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Common article types include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Original research articles:<\/strong> Present findings from new research.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Review articles:<\/strong> Examine and synthesise existing research on a specific topic.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Case studies:<\/strong> Explore a particular case, practice, event, or research application.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Short communications:<\/strong> Share focused research findings or early results in a shorter format.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Editorials:<\/strong> Provide commentary or context on research, issues, or developments relevant to the journal.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Special issues:<\/strong> Bring together articles focused on a particular theme or research area.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Each article type should have clear submission and formatting requirements so authors know what is expected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"set-up-the-submission-and-peer-review-workflow\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Set Up the Submission and Peer Review Workflow<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once you know what the journal will publish, establish how manuscripts will move from submission to publication.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A defined workflow helps editors track each paper and ensures that authors and reviewers know what happens at each stage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A typical workflow includes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Manuscript submission<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Editorial screening<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reviewer assignment<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Peer review<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Editorial decision<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Author revisions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Final acceptance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Copyediting and production<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Publication<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Archiving<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The workflow may vary depending on the journal&#8217;s subject, review model, and publishing process, but each stage should have a clear purpose and responsible person.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"create-author-guidelines\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Create Author Guidelines<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Author guidelines should give contributors the information they need before submitting a manuscript. They can include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Manuscript formatting requirements<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Referencing style<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Figures and tables requirements<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ethical declarations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Submission instructions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Required supporting documents<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Clear guidelines reduce avoidable back-and-forth and help editors assess submissions more efficiently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"choose-academic-journal-management-software\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Choose Academic Journal Management Software<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As submission volumes increase, managing manuscripts, reviewers, and editorial decisions through email and spreadsheets can become difficult.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Journal management software provides a more structured way to handle these activities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A suitable platform can help organise:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Manuscript submissions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Peer review<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reviewer communication<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Editorial decisions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Publications<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Journal records<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Article metadata<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For a new journal, it is useful to <a href=\"https:\/\/alkademy.com\/blog\/how-to-choose-journal-management-software\/\">choose software<\/a> that can support the workflow from submission through publication rather than solving only one part of the process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"set-up-the-journal-website\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Set Up the Journal Website<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The journal website is where authors, reviewers, and readers can find information about the publication and access its content.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keep the structure simple and make important information easy to find.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Essential pages include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>About the Journal<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Aims and Scope<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Editorial Board<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Author Guidelines<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Submission Guidelines<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Peer Review Policy<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Publication Ethics<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Current Issues<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Archives<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Contact Information<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The website should also make published articles easy to access and provide consistent information about the journal, its policies, and its publishing practices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"get-an-issn-and-set-up-journal-identifiers\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Get an ISSN and Set Up Journal Identifiers<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before publishing, make sure the journal has the identifiers and metadata needed to distinguish and reference its content properly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Key elements include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>ISSN:<\/strong> Identifies the journal as a continuing publication.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>DOIs:<\/strong> Provide persistent links to individual published articles.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Article metadata:<\/strong> Includes information such as titles, authors, abstracts, keywords, and publication dates.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Persistent identifiers:<\/strong> Help keep journal content identifiable and accessible over time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These elements make it easier for researchers, libraries, databases, and indexing services to identify and reference the journal and its articles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"decide-how-the-journal-will-be-published\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Decide How the Journal Will Be Published<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Choose a publishing schedule that your editorial and production team can maintain consistently.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The right frequency depends on the expected number of submissions and the resources available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Common options include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Continuous publishing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Monthly publishing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Quarterly publishing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Annual publishing<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You should also decide whether the journal will be:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Online only<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Print only<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Hybrid<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A realistic publishing schedule is more useful than committing to a frequency that becomes difficult to maintain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"decide-on-open-access-copyright-and-licensing\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Decide on Open Access, Copyright and Licensing<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before publishing articles, establish clear rules around access, ownership, and reuse. Authors should be able to understand what happens to their work after publication.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Consider:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Open access options<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Copyright ownership<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Author rights<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Creative Commons licensing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Publication charges, where applicable<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These policies should be clearly displayed on the journal website and included in the relevant author guidelines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"publish-the-first-issue\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Publish the First Issue<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once the editorial and production processes are complete, you can prepare the journal&#8217;s first publication.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Take time to check the final content before making it publicly available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before launch:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Review accepted manuscripts.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Check article metadata.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Confirm author names and affiliations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Verify references and citations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Prepare articles for publication.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Make sure published content is properly archived.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A careful final review can help catch errors before they become part of the permanent publication record.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"make-the-journal-discoverable\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Make the Journal Discoverable<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Publishing an issue does not automatically make a journal easy to find. Build discoverability into the publishing process from the beginning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Focus on:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Accurate and complete article metadata<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Search-friendly journal and article pages<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Academic communities and research networks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Relevant directories<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Appropriate indexing services<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Depending on the journal and its eligibility, relevant services may include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>DOAJ<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Google Scholar<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Scopus<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Web of Science<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Each indexing or discovery service has its own requirements, so review the criteria before applying.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"how-alkademy-press-supports-academic-journal-publishing\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How Alkademy Press Supports Academic Journal Publishing<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"471\" src=\"https:\/\/alkademy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Alkademy-Press-Screenshot-1024x471.png\" alt=\"Alkademy Press Screenshot 1024x471\" class=\"wp-image-1119\" title=\"How to Start an Academic Journal: A Step-by-Step Guide\" srcset=\"https:\/\/alkademy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Alkademy-Press-Screenshot-1024x471.png 1024w, https:\/\/alkademy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Alkademy-Press-Screenshot-300x138.png 300w, https:\/\/alkademy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Alkademy-Press-Screenshot-768x353.png 768w, https:\/\/alkademy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Alkademy-Press-Screenshot-1536x706.png 1536w, https:\/\/alkademy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Alkademy-Press-Screenshot.png 1584w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Starting a journal involves several moving parts, from handling submissions and coordinating reviewers to preparing articles for publication and maintaining journal records.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Having these activities organised in one platform can make the process easier to manage as the journal grows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/press.alkademy.com\/\">Alkademy Press<\/a> is a journal publishing platform that supports key parts of this workflow, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Journal submissions:<\/strong> Organise incoming manuscripts and keep submissions connected to the editorial process.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Peer review workflows:<\/strong> Manage reviewer assignments, reviews, and related communication.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Editorial management:<\/strong> Keep editorial activities and decisions organised throughout the publishing process.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Publication processes:<\/strong> Support the preparation and publication of journal content.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Journal records:<\/strong> Keep important journal and publication information organised.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Data organisation and preservation:<\/strong> Maintain structured publishing records that can be managed and preserved over time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The goal is to give publishers a structured environment for managing the work involved in running an academic journal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"common-mistakes-when-starting-an-academic-journal\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Common Mistakes When Starting an Academic Journal<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A new journal can face avoidable problems when its publishing processes are not clearly planned from the beginning. Common mistakes include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Launching without a clear scope<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Failing to define editorial responsibilities<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Accepting papers without a consistent peer review process<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Managing the entire workflow through email<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Publishing without clear editorial and ethical policies<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Neglecting article metadata and digital preservation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Focusing on indexing before establishing publishing quality<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A clear workflow and realistic publishing plan can help address many of these issues before they become larger problems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"how-much-does-it-cost-to-start-an-academic-journal\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How Much Does It Cost to Start an Academic Journal?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is no single cost for starting an academic journal. Expenses depend on the publishing model, the size of the journal, and how much work is handled internally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Potential costs include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Website development and hosting<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Journal publishing software<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>DOI services<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Editing and production<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Digital preservation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Editorial administration<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some journals may have additional costs related to marketing, print production, or external editorial services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"how-long-does-it-take-to-start-an-academic-journal\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How Long Does It Take to Start an Academic Journal?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The timeline depends on how quickly the journal&#8217;s editorial, technical, and publishing foundations can be put in place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Key stages include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Planning the journal and defining its scope<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Recruiting the editorial team<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Creating publishing policies<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Setting up the publishing platform<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Managing initial submissions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Completing peer review<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Preparing and publishing the first issue<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is no fixed timeline that works for every journal. It is more important to establish a process that can be maintained consistently after launch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"fa-qs\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>FAQs<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div data-wp-context=\"{ &quot;autoclose&quot;: false, &quot;accordionItems&quot;: [] }\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/accordion\" role=\"group\" class=\"wp-block-accordion is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-is-layout-flow\">\n<div data-wp-class--is-open=\"state.isOpen\" data-wp-context=\"{ &quot;id&quot;: &quot;accordion-item-1&quot;, &quot;openByDefault&quot;: false }\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.initAccordionItems\" data-wp-on-window--hashchange=\"callbacks.hashChange\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-item is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-item-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading\"><button aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-item-1-panel\" data-wp-bind--aria-expanded=\"state.isOpen\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.toggle\" id=\"accordion-item-1\" type=\"button\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle\"><span class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle-title\"><strong>Can anyone start an academic journal?<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\">+<\/span><\/button><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div aria-labelledby=\"accordion-item-1\" data-wp-bind--hidden=\"state.isHidden\" data-wp-on--beforematch=\"actions.handleBeforeMatch\" id=\"accordion-item-1-panel\" role=\"region\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-panel is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-panel-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Individuals, institutions, academic societies, and publishers can establish journals. However, the journal needs appropriate editorial processes, publishing policies, and quality standards to operate effectively.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div data-wp-context=\"{ &quot;autoclose&quot;: false, &quot;accordionItems&quot;: [] }\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/accordion\" role=\"group\" class=\"wp-block-accordion is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-is-layout-flow\">\n<div data-wp-class--is-open=\"state.isOpen\" data-wp-context=\"{ &quot;id&quot;: &quot;accordion-item-2&quot;, &quot;openByDefault&quot;: false }\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.initAccordionItems\" data-wp-on-window--hashchange=\"callbacks.hashChange\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-item is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-item-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading\"><button aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-item-2-panel\" data-wp-bind--aria-expanded=\"state.isOpen\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.toggle\" id=\"accordion-item-2\" type=\"button\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle\"><span class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle-title\"><strong>Do I need a university or academic institution to start a journal?<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\">+<\/span><\/button><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div aria-labelledby=\"accordion-item-2\" data-wp-bind--hidden=\"state.isHidden\" data-wp-on--beforematch=\"actions.handleBeforeMatch\" id=\"accordion-item-2-panel\" role=\"region\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-panel is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-panel-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not necessarily. An academic journal can be established independently, although its credibility will depend on factors such as its editorial team, policies, peer review process, and publishing practices.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div data-wp-context=\"{ &quot;autoclose&quot;: false, &quot;accordionItems&quot;: [] }\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/accordion\" role=\"group\" class=\"wp-block-accordion is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-is-layout-flow\">\n<div data-wp-class--is-open=\"state.isOpen\" data-wp-context=\"{ &quot;id&quot;: &quot;accordion-item-3&quot;, &quot;openByDefault&quot;: false }\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.initAccordionItems\" data-wp-on-window--hashchange=\"callbacks.hashChange\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-item is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-item-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading\"><button aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-item-3-panel\" data-wp-bind--aria-expanded=\"state.isOpen\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.toggle\" id=\"accordion-item-3\" type=\"button\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle\"><span class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle-title\"><strong>Does a new academic journal need an ISSN?<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\">+<\/span><\/button><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div aria-labelledby=\"accordion-item-3\" data-wp-bind--hidden=\"state.isHidden\" data-wp-on--beforematch=\"actions.handleBeforeMatch\" id=\"accordion-item-3-panel\" role=\"region\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-panel is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-panel-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An ISSN is used to identify a continuing publication and distinguish it from other publications. Publishers should follow the requirements of the relevant ISSN registration authority for their journal.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div data-wp-context=\"{ &quot;autoclose&quot;: false, &quot;accordionItems&quot;: [] }\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/accordion\" role=\"group\" class=\"wp-block-accordion is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-is-layout-flow\">\n<div data-wp-class--is-open=\"state.isOpen\" data-wp-context=\"{ &quot;id&quot;: &quot;accordion-item-4&quot;, &quot;openByDefault&quot;: false }\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.initAccordionItems\" data-wp-on-window--hashchange=\"callbacks.hashChange\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-item is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-item-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading\"><button aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-item-4-panel\" data-wp-bind--aria-expanded=\"state.isOpen\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.toggle\" id=\"accordion-item-4\" type=\"button\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle\"><span class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle-title\"><strong>Does an academic journal need peer review?<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\">+<\/span><\/button><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div aria-labelledby=\"accordion-item-4\" data-wp-bind--hidden=\"state.isHidden\" data-wp-on--beforematch=\"actions.handleBeforeMatch\" id=\"accordion-item-4-panel\" role=\"region\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-panel is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-panel-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Peer review is a standard part of scholarly publishing and is used by many academic journals to evaluate submitted research before publication. The specific review model depends on the journal&#8217;s policies.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div data-wp-context=\"{ &quot;autoclose&quot;: false, &quot;accordionItems&quot;: [] }\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/accordion\" role=\"group\" class=\"wp-block-accordion is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-is-layout-flow\">\n<div data-wp-class--is-open=\"state.isOpen\" data-wp-context=\"{ &quot;id&quot;: &quot;accordion-item-5&quot;, &quot;openByDefault&quot;: false }\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.initAccordionItems\" data-wp-on-window--hashchange=\"callbacks.hashChange\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-item is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-item-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading\"><button aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-item-5-panel\" data-wp-bind--aria-expanded=\"state.isOpen\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.toggle\" id=\"accordion-item-5\" type=\"button\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle\"><span class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle-title\"><strong>How do I get a new academic journal indexed?<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\">+<\/span><\/button><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div aria-labelledby=\"accordion-item-5\" data-wp-bind--hidden=\"state.isHidden\" data-wp-on--beforematch=\"actions.handleBeforeMatch\" id=\"accordion-item-5-panel\" role=\"region\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-panel is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-panel-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Indexing services have their own eligibility criteria. A journal should first establish consistent publishing practices, clear editorial policies, quality content, and accurate metadata before applying to relevant indexing services.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"final-thoughts-on-how-to-start-an-academic-journal\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Final Thoughts on How to Start an Academic Journal<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Starting an academic journal requires more than publishing research online. You need a clear scope, capable editorial team, transparent policies, reliable peer review, and a publishing workflow that can support the journal as it grows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The right publishing infrastructure can also reduce the administrative burden of managing submissions, reviews, publications, and journal records.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ready to build a more organised journal publishing workflow?&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Explore <a href=\"https:\/\/press.alkademy.com\/\">Alkademy Press<\/a> to see how the platform can help you manage submissions, peer review, editorial processes, publications, and journal records in one place.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Learn how to start an academic journal, from defining its scope and building an editorial team to managing peer review, publishing, indexing, and 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