The Journal of American Ethnic History, the official journal of the Immigration and Ethnic History Society, is published quarterly and focuses on the immigrant and ethnic/racial history of the North American people. Scholars are invited to submit manuscripts on the process of migration (including the old world experience as it relates to migration and group life), adjustment and assimilation, group relations, mobility, politics, culture, race and race relations, group identity, or other topics that illuminate the North American immigrant and ethnic/racial experience. The editor particularly seeks essays that are interpretive or analytical. Descriptive papers will be considered only if they present new information. Manuscripts must focus on ethnicity/race, etc. rather than simply incorporate these topics as an incidental part of a discussion that focuses on politics, cities, unions, etc.

Each journal issue contains articles, review essays, and single book reviews. There are also occasional sections on "Research Comments" (short articles that furnish important information for the field, a guide to further research or other significant historical items that will stimulate discussion and inquiry), Forums on teaching or public history, and other special features. The journal also has published special theme issues.