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COMM U375 - Communication Research Methods: Communication Journals & Databases

A Course Guide for all sections of Communication Research Methods: COMM U375

Scholarly Journals

These journals are available in paper or online full-text through the USC Upstate Library. Most are peer-reviewed and present research articles and other material of interest to an academic audience.

Some of the descriptions on this guide are based on Cheryl LaGuardia, Magazines for Libraries, 18th ed. (New Providence, NJ: ProQuest, 2009) and Ulrich's International Periodical Directory, http://www.ulrichsweb.com/ulrichsweb/.

What are Scholarly Journals?

Image of Scholarly Journals

Scholarly Journal (A.K.A. Professional Journal) Journals such as American Historical Review, New England Journal of Medicine, and Social Psychology Quarterly are all considered scholarly or professional journals.  A journal that contains articles and research by scholars and experts in a specific field who wish to share their research with other professionals/scholars. Articles are usually based on original research and contain author credentials, abstracts and bibliographies. Professional associations, Scholarly presses, Universities, or Academic/Research Organizations often publish these journals. The language in a Scholarly Journal tends to be academic and can be very technical often using the language of the discipline. Graphs, charts, and/or formulas can be included as well as graphics but these periodicals usually do not contain glossy ads and/or pictures.

Subject Databases for Communication and Journalism

Multidisciplinary Databases

These multidisciplinary databases include some of the core journals in communication and journalism. They are also a good place for interdisciplinary research.

Search for a Journal Title In Communication & Mass Media Complete

search for a title make sure to choose SO publication title

Open Access Journals

Below is a selection of journals related to mass communications that are freely available online. 

Ulrichs Web - Find out if your journal is scholarly and peer reviewed.

Ulrichs