What is Open Access?

Green & Gold Open Access publishing

Open Access is a mechanism to promote the availability of peer-reviewed scholarly research. Authors who wish to make their work Open Access can do so by following one of two paths:

  • GREEN Road: Authors can publish in any journal they choose and then deposit a version of their work in a repository, such as Spectrum. Most publishers allow authors to self-archive a version of their work in a repository (typically not the publisher's PDF), however, some publishers impose an embargo period. The Sherpa/Romeo database can be used to verify a journal's self-archiving policy.
  • GOLD Road: Authors can publish in a fully Open Access journal or in a subscription journal that has an Open Access option (for a fee).
Back to top arrow up, go to top of page