How can I find theses and dissertations?

For Harvard theses, dissertations, and prize winning essays, see our How can I find a Harvard thesis or dissertation? FAQ entry.

Beyond Harvard, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global database (this link requires HarvardKey login) is a good place to start:

• lists dissertations and theses from most North American graduate schools (including Harvard) and many from universities in Great Britain and Ireland, 1716-present
• full text for most indexed theses 1990- present; many older.
  • You can get full text from Proquest Dissertations and Theses through your own institutional library or you can often purchase directly from ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Express.  

Other sources:

Databases beyond ProQuest Dissertations & Theses:

Some out of copyright works (pre-1924) are available via large digital libraries. Search online for the title.

Networked Digital Library of Electronic Theses and Dissertations' Global Search scans participating international libraries

The Center for Research Libraries' Dissertations database includes many non-US theses.

WorldCat describes many masters' & PhD theses. Use "Advanced Search" and limit to subtype "thesis/dissertation." No full text; it just tells you what libraries have reported having copies.

There are several excellent guides out there with international search recommendations like University College London's Institute of Education Theses and Dissertations LibGuide.

Institutions:

At the institution where the work originated or the national library of the country (if outside the US):

Online institutional repositories (like Harvard's DASH): If the work was produced after the  school's repository was established, it may well be found here in full text. 

Libraries: Check the library catalog. There's often a reproductions service ($) for material that hasn't been digitized, but each school has its own policies. Most schools have some kind of "ask a librarian" service where you can ask what to do next.

At your own institution (where applicable) or public library: While many institutions will not lend theses and dissertations or send copies through Interlibrary loan, your Interlibrary Loan department may be able to help you acquire or pay for reproductions. 

• Current Harvard faculty, staff and students: Once you identify a reproduction source you can place a request with Harvard Library ILL (in the notes field, ask for help with funding).

For Harvard theses and dissertations, see "How can I find a Harvard thesis or dissertation?"

If you're having trouble locating or acquiring a copy of/access to a dissertation, try "Why can't I find this thesis or dissertation?"