NOUN Journal of Criminology and Security Studies (NJCSS)
Editorial Policy
NOUN Journal of Criminology and Security Studies (NJCSS)
1. Introduction
The NOUN Journal of Criminology and Security Studies (NJCSS) is a peer-reviewed academic journal that publishes original research, theoretical analyses, case studies, and policy discussions in the fields of criminology, security studies, law enforcement, and related disciplines. The journal is committed to upholding the highest standards of academic integrity, scholarly excellence, and ethical publishing.
2. Scope and Focus
The NJCSS welcomes high-quality submissions on topics including, but not limited to:
• Criminological theories and practices
• Crime prevention and criminal justice policies
• Law enforcement strategies and policing
• Cybersecurity and digital crimes
• National and international security studies
• Terrorism, radicalization, and counterterrorism
• Human rights, justice administration, and corrections
• Forensic science and criminal investigations
• Organized crime, drug trafficking, and financial crimes
• Intelligence gathering and security management
3. Peer Review Process
All submissions undergo a double-blind peer review process to ensure academic rigor and objectivity. The review process includes:
• Initial screening by the editorial board for relevance and compliance with submission guidelines.
• Anonymous evaluation by at least two independent reviewers with expertise in the subject area.
• Editorial decision based on reviewers’ recommendations (acceptance, revision, or rejection).
• Final approval by the editor-in-chief before publication.
4. Ethical Standards
The NJCSS adheres to ethical guidelines as prescribed by the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE). Authors, reviewers, and editors are expected to uphold the following:
• Originality & Plagiarism: Submissions must be original, properly cited, and free of plagiarism.
• Authorship Transparency: All listed authors must have contributed significantly to the work.
• Conflict of Interest Disclosure: Authors, reviewers, and editors must declare any conflicts of interest.
• Data Integrity: Research data must be accurate, verifiable, and ethically obtained.
• Confidentiality: Peer review details and author identities remain confidential throughout the review process.
5. Submission Guidelines
Articles must be written in English typed double-spaced and one sided A4 paper with left and right margins of 1.5 inches.
1. Maximum length of manuscript should be fifteen (15) pages references, table and figures inclusive. Font type should be the Times New Roman, twelve point size
2. The America Psychological Association (APA) reference style 7th edition should be used.
3. Manuscripts must be accompanied by abstract of not more than two hundred and fifty (250) words and five (5) key words.
4. A cover page which must include the title of the paper and full name of the author(s) with surname in block capitals, should also accompany the manuscript.
5. Submitted manuscript should not have been published or be under consideration for publication elsewhere.
6. The deadline for submission of articles for any edition shall always be indicated.
7. Articles must be sent with a non –refundable processing fee of five thousand naira (N5,000) while a publication fee of twenty five thousand naira (N25,000) shall be paid upon acceptance to the following bank account: Banker; GTBank, Bank Account Number: 0115964333; Account Name: Tijjani Halliru
8. All manuscripts should be submitted electronically as an MS Word attachment to njcss@noun.edu.ng
6. Open Access and Copyright Policy
The NJCSS follows an open-access publishing model, ensuring unrestricted access to research findings. Authors retain copyright of their work but grant the journal the right to publish and distribute their content under a Creative Commons license (CC BY-NC-ND).
7. Frequency of Publication
The journal is published biannually (twice a year) in both print and electronic formats. Special issues may be released on emerging topics of interest.
8. Retraction and Correction Policy
If an article is found to have significant errors, ethical breaches, or fraudulent data post-publication, the journal reserves the right to:
• Issue a correction notice for minor errors.
• Retract the article in cases of misconduct or serious ethical violations.
9. Advertising and Sponsorship
The NJCSS does not accept commercial advertising but may consider sponsorships or institutional partnerships that align with its academic mission.
10. Contact Information
For submissions, inquiries, or further information, please contact:
The Editorial Office
NOUN Journal of Criminology and Security Studies (NJCSS)
Department of Criminology and Security Studies, National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN)
Email: njcss@noun.edu.ng
Website: njcss.nou.edu.ng
This editorial policy ensures the NJCSS maintains credibility, scholarly impact, and ethical publishing standards while serving as a vital resource for academics, researchers, and security practitioners.