The Quarterly Journal of Speech, published in February, May, August and November, includes articles, research reports, and book reviews of interest to persons across a broad spectrum of the communication arts. QJS tends to be humanistic in its orientation.

QJS invites research that is original, significant, and designed to further understanding of the processes of human communication, particularly in its rhetorical and cultural dimensions. 

Essays in the journal generally consider the theory and criticism of situated discourse in its various forms and venues, including the oral and written, public and private, direct and mediated, historical and contemporary. 

Although research in the journal is generally humanistic, the journal's mission and focus are not limited to any particular methodology or set of methodologies. Essays submitted to the journal should be concerned with issues, texts, and research questions significant to improved understanding of discourse practices. Authors should suggest and establish an original thesis and should explain the contribution of their work to related research.