Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Encyclopedia of Higher Education?
The Encyclopedia of Higher Education is a pioneering 13-volume scholarly reference work that aims to comprehensively document, analyze, and advance the global understanding of higher education systems. It integrates diverse perspectives, traditions, policy frameworks, and institutional practices from across the world, presenting cutting-edge analysis and empirical research. This project is positioned to serve as both a historical archive and a future-looking compass for academics, practitioners, and decision-makers.
2. Who is leading the project?
The Encyclopedia is spearheaded by Dr. Mustafa Kayyali, an internationally recognized scholar in the fields of higher education, academic quality assurance, and research innovation. With a prolific record of over 70 chapters, 21 books, and leadership roles in numerous academic initiatives, Dr. Kayyali brings exceptional editorial experience and visionary thinking to this monumental project.
3. What is the main purpose of the Encyclopedia?
The purpose is to offer a structured, multi-perspective resource that empowers educators, researchers, policymakers, and institutional leaders. It responds to critical gaps in globally inclusive knowledge by highlighting both established and emerging themes in higher education, with a commitment to diversity, equity, and academic excellence.
4. How many volumes does the Encyclopedia include?
The project includes thirteen thematic volumes, each focused on a major area such as institutional governance, internationalization, quality assurance, faculty development, ethics, rankings, digital transformation, and future trends.
5. Who are the contributors to the Encyclopedia?
Contributors include distinguished academics, university presidents, ministry officials, accreditation leaders, educational consultants, and researchers from over 80 countries. The project is global in scope and intentionally interdisciplinary.
6. Who is eligible to submit a chapter?
Any academic, researcher, practitioner, policymaker, or graduate scholar with expertise or interest in higher education may propose and submit a chapter. The project encourages voices from diverse backgrounds, including early-career scholars and those from underrepresented regions.
7. Are there any submission or publication fees?
No. One of the core commitments of this initiative is accessibility and openness. There are absolutely no submission or publication fees for accepted chapters.
8. What is the required length for chapters?
Submissions should range between 5,000 and 6,000 words. This length allows authors to explore their topics in depth while maintaining clarity and accessibility for a global readership.
9. In what language should submissions be written?
All chapters must be written in English to ensure consistency and accessibility across international academic and policy communities.
10. What citation format should be used?
Authors should use APA (7th edition preferred) for in-text citations and references. Proper citation ensures academic integrity and supports readers who wish to explore sources further.
11. What file format should be submitted?
All manuscripts must be submitted in Microsoft Word (.docx) format to ensure compatibility with the editorial and peer review system.
12. How current should the references be?
At least 80% of references should be from sources published after 2021. This requirement ensures that each chapter reflects the most recent knowledge, debates, and data in the field.
13. Where should I send my abstract or chapter proposal?
You can email your abstract, idea, or completed chapter to Dr. Mustafa Kayyali directly at kayyali@heranking.com. Alternatively, contributors may use the submission form provided on the official encyclopedia website.
14. Can authors propose topics not listed in the suggested themes?
Yes. The topic lists are illustrative rather than exhaustive. Authors are welcome to propose original topics that align with the thematic focus of each volume.
15. Is co-authorship allowed?
Yes, joint authorship is welcomed and encouraged. Collaborative contributions from multidisciplinary or international teams are highly valued.
16. Are early-career researchers eligible to participate?
Absolutely. This project actively encourages early-career researchers and PhD candidates to contribute. It offers a platform for emerging voices and fresh ideas in global higher education.
17. Is there a peer review process?
Yes, every submitted chapter undergoes a rigorous double-blind peer review. This ensures academic quality, validity of arguments, and alignment with the Encyclopedia's standards.
18. Do authors receive feedback during the review process?
Yes. Reviewers provide detailed, constructive feedback to help authors strengthen their manuscripts and align them with scholarly and thematic expectations.
19. Can authors revise and resubmit chapters if requested?
Yes. Authors whose chapters require revisions will be invited to revise and resubmit based on reviewer and editorial feedback. This iterative process aims to enhance scholarly rigor and clarity.
20. Who comprises the editorial board?
Each volume has a dedicated editorial team, including international experts, scholars, and practitioners who provide thematic leadership, review guidance, and quality assurance.
21. Who is the publisher of the Encyclopedia?
The Encyclopedia is published in partnership with Arab Academic Publishers (AAP), a reputable organization committed to advancing open-access academic publishing.
22. Will the Encyclopedia be available in print and digital formats?
Yes. The Encyclopedia will be published both digitally and in print. The digital version will be freely accessible, while print volumes will be available for libraries and institutions.
23. Will chapters be indexed in academic databases?
Efforts are underway to index the volumes in major academic repositories and databases to maximize discoverability and scholarly impact.
24. What themes are covered in the volumes?
Each volume focuses on a critical domain in higher education, such as quality assurance, policy reform, digital transformation, faculty development, and internationalization. Each volume includes around 30 topics.
25. Can I contribute to more than one volume?
Yes, contributors may submit chapters to multiple volumes, provided that each submission is original, relevant, and meets the editorial criteria.
26. Is there a volume that focuses on future challenges in higher education?
Yes. Volume 13 is dedicated entirely to Future Trends and Challenges, covering issues such as AI in education, micro-credentials, and hybrid learning models.
27. How does the Encyclopedia ensure representation from the Global South?
The editorial vision explicitly prioritizes inclusion from historically underrepresented regions, encouraging contributions from the Global South and ensuring regional diversity.
28. What happens after I submit my chapter?
Once submitted, your chapter is acknowledged and then sent for peer review. After receiving feedback, you'll be asked to revise if necessary. Once accepted, your chapter will be copyedited and prepared for publication.
29. How will I be credited as an author?
Authors' names, institutional affiliations, ORCID IDs, and brief bios will be published alongside their chapters.
30. Can authors promote their work after publication?
Yes. Authors are encouraged to share their work through academic networks, conferences, and social media. The editorial team will also support promotion through the official website and institutional partners.
31. Is the Encyclopedia affiliated with a university?
Yes. The project is proudly supported by Maaref University of Applied Sciences, which plays a key role in academic oversight and international outreach.
32. How can I stay updated or contact the team?
You can follow the Encyclopedia through its website and social media accounts. For direct communication, please email kayyali@heranking.com.