University of Malta Launches SociologyMT: First Online Journal Opens Doors for Social Science Research

University of Malta Launches SociologyMT: First Online Journal Opens Doors for Social Science Research

What SociologyMT Brings to the Academic Community

The University of Malta (UM) has announced the launch of SociologyMT, a peer‑reviewed, online journal dedicated to sociology and related fields. This new platform extends UM’s reputation for high‑quality research and positions the department as a central hub for contemporary studies on Maltese and global social issues.

Behind the Launch: Department of Sociology and Its Mission

The Department of Sociology, operating under the Faculty of Arts, has long been a leader in social science education within the region. By creating SociologyMT, the department is giving students, alumni, and scholars a streamlined, open‑access outlet to publish findings that reflect Malta’s unique social landscape and contribute to broader scholarly conversations.

Key Vision

  • Provide a reputable, peer‑reviewed venue for original research.
  • Encourage interdisciplinary collaboration across the university.
  • Showcase studies that explore local contexts and connect them to global theory.

Who Is the Editorial Team?

The inaugural editorial board is led by Dr Kay Polidano, with support from Dr Dylan Cassar and Prof. Mark‑Anthony Falzon. Their collective expertise covers areas such as social inequality, gender studies, and environmental sociology, ensuring a broad and rigorous review process.

First Issue Highlights: Diverse Topics, Local Impact

The first edition of SociologyMT features six contributions that cover a wide spectrum of sociological themes relevant to Malta and comparable societies. Below is a brief overview of each paper and its significance.

1. Poverty in Old Age

Analyzing the financial and social challenges faced by elderly residents in Malta (author: A. X. Y.). The study offers policy recommendations for social workers and local authorities.

2. Women’s Organisations and Social Relations

Explores how women-led groups navigate social space and influence policy (author: B. C. D.). The research illuminates gendered power dynamics in the local community.

3. The Performance of Self by Drag Queens

A cultural analysis of gender fluidity and performance art, highlighting Malta’s emerging queer scene (author: E. F. G.).

4. Meanings of House Names in Senglea

Examines how traditional house names reflect community heritage and identity (author: H. I. J.). The paper adds depth to the study of place‑based folklore.

5. Drug Court Rehabilitation Outcomes

Assesses the effectiveness of Malta’s Drug Court program and follows participants’ post‑judicial outcomes (author: K. L. M.). The findings aid clinicians and policymakers.

6. Soundscapes and Everyday Life in Birżebbuġa

Investigates how ambient sounds shape the experience of living in a coastal Maltese town (author: N. O. P.), contributing to environmental sociology literature.

How to Submit Your Own Research

SociologyMT accepts submissions on a rolling basis throughout the year. Researchers are encouraged to engage with the rigorous peer‑review process designed by the editorial board to ensure quality and relevance.

  • Step 1: Review the submission guidelines on the journal’s website.
  • Step 2: Prepare your manuscript according to the provided templates and formatting rules.
  • Step 3: Submit via the online portal and await editorial feedback.

For detailed guidance, visit the SociologyMT website. Researchers from other institutions are also welcome to contribute, fostering an inclusive scholarly dialogue.

Why Publishing in SociologyMT Matters

  • Open Access: All articles are freely available worldwide, increasing citation potential.
  • Local Insight: Papers explicitly address the Maltese context, making them attractive to regional policymakers.
  • Interdisciplinary Reach: The journal’s scope covers social, cultural, and environmental topics, inviting cross‑disciplinary research.
  • Visibility at UM: Articles receive promotion across UM’s communication channels, boosting their impact.

Additional Resources for Aspiring Authors

Beyond the journal, the Department of Sociology offers workshops, seminars, and mentorship programs that assist students and early‑career researchers in preparing manuscripts. These activities are designed to build research skills, network with faculty, and understand the publishing landscape.

Upcoming Events

  • Workshop: Writing for Peer‑Reviewed Journals – 15 May 2025, St. Michael’s Hall.
  • Seminar: The Role of Local Studies in Global Sociology – 22 June 2025, Virtual.
  • Mentorship Programme: From Dissertation to Publication – Ongoing.

Engage with SociologyMT Today

Whether you are an undergraduate student eager to start publishing, a graduate student polishing your thesis, or a seasoned researcher seeking a new venue, SociologyMT offers a credible and responsive platform.

  • Submit your research today and join the conversation.
  • Explore SociologyMT’s submission guidelines and discover how your work can reach a global audience.
  • Schedule a consultation with the Department of Sociology to refine your study and understand the journal’s expectations.

By publishing in this new academic platform, you contribute to a growing body of knowledge that defines Malta’s social landscape while connecting local insights to worldwide debates in sociology.