Finding theses
This guide outlines ways of identifying theses and dissertations published in your discipline.
Key resources
- EThOS - [links to University Library information]. EThOS covers PhD theses from a large number of British universities. It allows you to access the full-text of digitised theses, and request paper theses for digitisation from participating institutions.
- ProQuest Dissertations & Theses: USA - gives references to doctoral and masters theses from around the world, some available in full-text.
- WorldCat - a union catalogue which includes doctoral and masters theses submitted to member libraries (mostly North American)
Other sources
- DART-Europe E-theses Portal - provides access to around 100,000 full-text research theses from 12 European countries
- Register of Commonwealth Research - a listing of higher research dissertations, relating to the Commonwealth and its member countries completed or in progress at UK Higher Education Institutions
- Trove: the database of the National Library of Australia- search and access full text of digital versions of Australian theses. Use the advanced search and limit the format to Thesis. See this guide for detailed help on finding Australian theses via Trove.
You may also find that databases in your subject area also index theses. Find out which ones are relevant for you by consulting our list of Databases by subject.
Finding theses in progress
It isn't easy finding out about research currently taking place. For some ideas on finding details of theses in progress take a look at Lancaster University Library theses and dissertations page.
Further help
Contact us for additional advice on finding theses.