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Information For Authors

GUIDE FOR CONTRIBUTORS

The Journal

Confluence: A Journal of Undergraduate Sociology is a peer-reviewed academic publication dedicated to showcasing original sociological research, theoretical analysis, and critical reflection by undergraduate students. The journal provides a platform for emerging scholars to engage with key debates in the discipline, contribute to sociological knowledge, and develop their academic writing and research skills.

We welcome submissions that explore the full range of sociological inquiry: 

  • Empirical studies using qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods
  • Theoretical papers
  • Critical engagement with bodies of literature or debates
  • Essays
  • Reviews 

Our mission is to provide an intellectual space where students can share their work and encourage dialogue between students, faculty, and the broader academic community, highlighting the importance of sociological perspectives in understanding and addressing the complex issues that shape our world.

Who May Submit

We welcome submissions from current University of Pittsburgh undergraduate students or Pitt undergraduates who have graduated within the last 24 months.

Co-authored work between students and faculty mentors is also welcome.

Submission Process

Because the journal is student-run, authors should expect a collaborative and developmental review process. Our goal is to support authors in strengthening their work.

We encourage authors to submit manuscripts electronically through the journal’s online submission system. Alternatively authors can email manuscripts to the following address: confluence@pitt.edu.

All submissions are subject to initial editorial screening and, if deemed suitable, will undergo double-anonymous peer review.

Manuscript Preparation

Anonymization

To ensure blind review, authors must remove all identifying information from the manuscript.

For electronic submission, author identifying information will be registered separately from the manuscript.

For email submission, please include separate title page which includes:

  • Manuscript title
  • Author name(s)
  • Corresponding author contact information

Formatting

  • Manuscripts should be submitted in Microsoft Word file format
  • Text should be double-spaced throughout, including references
  • Use 12-point Times New Roman font
  • Number all pages consecutively
  • Include a 150–200 word abstract and 4–6 keywords

Citations and References

  • Authors should follow the American Sociological Association (ASA) Style Guide (latest edition).
  • In-text citations should include author(s) and year of publication. Page numbers should be included when quoting a source.
  • The reference list should include only works cited in the text and be alphabetized by author

Tables and Figures

  • Tables and figures should be placed at the end of the manuscript
  • Include clear titles and source notes where applicable

Review and Decision Process

All submissions are subject to initial editorial screening and, if deemed suitable, will undergo double-anonymous peer review. Editorial decisions may include:

  • Accept
  • Revise and resubmit
  • Reject

Contact Information

Questions regarding submissions should be directed to editorial staff at: confluence@pitt.edu.