Theses and dissertations are documents that present an author's research findings, which are submitted to the University in support of their academic degree. They are very useful to consult when carrying out your own research because they:
On this page you will find guidance on how to search for and access theses and dissertations in the Bodleian Libraries and beyond.
The Bodleian Libraries collection holds DPhil, MLitt and MPhil theses deposited at the University of Oxford. You can also search for theses and dissertations associated with other universities online, or request them via inter-library loan.
To find out more about how to find and access theses and dissertations in the Bodleian Libraries and beyond, we recommend the following:
The Social Science Library holds hard copies of dissertations (usually MPhil and MSc) that departments have sent in according to their own selection criteria.
The library holds dissertations from the following departments: Criminology, Economics, Geography and the Environment, International Development, Politics and International Relations (note that MPhil Politics and International Relations dissertations are held in the Bodleian Library), Socio-Legal Studies and Social Policy and Intervention.
These dissertations are on the shelves opposite the Print and Copy Room, arranged by department, course and year. They are all indexed on SOLO, and they are for consultation in the library only. They cannot be borrowed.
It is mandatory for students completing a research degree at the University of Oxford (registered to a programme of study on or after 1st October 2007) to deposit an electronic copy of their theses with the Oxford University Research Archive (ORA) in order to meet the requirements of their award. To find out more, visit the Oxford University Research Archive guide.
Thesis:
In the UK, a thesis is normally a document that presents an author's research findings as part of a doctoral or research programme.
Dissertation:
In the UK, a dissertation is normally a document that presents an author's research findings as part of an undergraduate or master's programme.
DPhil:
An abbreviation for Doctor of Philosophy, which is an advanced research qualification. You may also see it referred to as PhD.
ORA:
The Oxford University Research Archive, an institutional repository for the University of Oxford's research output including digital theses.