Locating Dissertations and Theses
From SubjectGuides
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[edit] Indexes to Theses and Dissertations
- The most comprehensive index to dissertations and theses, covering the years from 1861 to the present. Dissertations published from 1980 forward contain abstracts and many have a 24-page preview. Auburn dissertations and theses may be downloaded for free when available.
- Abstracts for older dissertations (pre-1980) may be found in Dissertation Abstracts International (DAI), the precursor to the online index. The volumes are shelved at Z 5055 .U5 D5 on the 2nd floor by the Reference Desk.
- ERIC, a major source of education materials, also contains a small number of dissertations, theses, and practicum papers. Many of the citations link to the full text. To limit searches, choose Dissertations/Theses (All) under Publication Type.
- Music Index Online indexes dissertations and reviews of dissertations. No full text here, though. By clicking on the Choose Databases tab, you can search Music Index, ERIC, and PsycINFO simultaneously.
- For older dissertations (1949-1976), the paper version of Music Index is shelved on the 3rd floor at ML 118 .M84.
- Indexes dissertations in psychology, but also contains a number of music dissertations.
[edit] Getting a Copy of a Thesis or Dissertation
[edit] Auburn University Dissertations
- Auburn University Libraries has archival copies of all Auburn theses and dissertations written before 2006.
- Download a copy from Dissertations & Theses. When available, Auburn dissertations and theses (some going back to the 1950s) may be downloaded for free.
- Download a copy from AUETD (Auburn University Theses and Dissertations).
- Online Auburn University dissertations from Fall 2005 to the present.
[edit] Dissertations from other Universities
- Search AubieCat for a copy.
- Try looking for an online copy. Many universities are putting their dissertations online. Here are some good sites to try:
- Try an internet search.
- Sometimes a title search will bring up an electronic copy.
- Use InterLibrary Loan (ILL).
- Click on the Request Materials link on the Libraries' homepage and follow the links. You'll need to log into ILLiad (our interlibrary loan system) with your global ID and password. A few tips for successful ILL requests:
- Fill out the ILL request form as completely as possible.
- Unless you want microfiche, put the following message in the Notes field: No microforms, please. If you still receive microfiche, contact ILL and ask them for a paper copy. Sometimes only the microfiche is available, though.
- The library will buy up to 10 dissertations a year for you. These include dissertations that are not available on ILL and those that you request we purchase. If possible, please try to borrow a copy first. If you find you need a copy for an extended period of time, then ask that we purchase it. If you would like us to purchase a dissertation for you, please put the following in the Notes field of the ILL request: Please purchase.
Unfortunately, ILL cannot borrow or purchase some dissertations. In this case, please contact Liza Weisbrod for assistance.