How can I get a copy of a dissertation that I need for my research?
Answer
First, check the ProQuest Dissertations & Theses database to see if it is available in full text. Dissertations from 1997 to present are available in full text from ProQuest. In addition, most Petoleum Institute Theses will be available online in ProQuest.
Dissertations and theses may also be available at no cost from the issuing institution's website. In addition to checking their web site, try using search tools such as Google Scholar or the Networked Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations.
If you still haven't found the dissertation, try checking ROAR to see if the university where the dissertation was written has a digital repository. If it does, try searching the repository for the thesis or dissertation.
Some dissertations are subsequently published by academic presses. A quick way to find out is by searching for the author in WorldCat. Remember, the title of the published book may be different than the dissertation.