Finding Dissertations and Theses by American University Students

Where are they located?

• From 1997 on, AU theses and dissertations are available through ProQuest (off-campus access restricted to current AU students, staff and faculty)
• Almost all AU theses and dissertations are available on microfilm or microfiche on the lower level of the library. You must request the thesis or dissertation by thesis number.
• If there is no microform copy, often a duplicate print copy is available from the University Archives.

How do I get the thesis number?

• All AU theses and dissertations are listed in the WRLC Libraries Catalog.
• For a particular thesis, search by title or author.
• To search by topic:
• • Search by keyword
  • In the search box, type your search string and add the following phrase
  • AND thesis AND "american university"

Can I use the Archival copy?

• It is expected that researchers will use either the online, microform or duplicate print copies of the dissertations and theses.
• If a researcher needs to use the archival copy for unusual reasons, such as the researcher has a disability that makes use of microform impossible, permission must be requested from the University Archivist (202-885-3255).
• Once the request is granted, it takes 72 hours to retrieve the materials from an off-site storage facility. They can then be used on-site in the Archives reading room, Monday-Friday between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM.

What about finding a Masters thesis project?

• SOC, Art, and Performing Arts sometimes require a thesis-like project that is not actually a thesis.
• Thesis projects are not collected by the library.
• The individual departments maintain the collections of their thesis projects.

I am from another institution. Can I borrow your theses and dissertations through Interlibrary Loan?

• We lend microform copies only.
• Please see the instructions on borrowing through interlibrary loan.

Help! I'm still confused.

• You can get Help in person from the Reference Desk.
• You can call the Reference Desk at (202) 885-3238.
• You can email the Electronic Reference Desk
• You can IM us or send us a text message

Finding Dissertations and Theses Written by Students at Other Schools

How do I find dissertations written on a particular topic?

• Use the database Dissertations and Theses.
• If you need Help with the search, contact the Reference Desk at (202) 885-3238
• Email the Electronic Reference Desk
• IM or text us

I found one I want, how do I get it?

If you need it quickly:

• Your best bet is to go to the Library of Congress and use their copy.

If you do not need it quickly:

• Interlibrary Loan may be able to borrow a copy for you.

If you want your own copy:

• Talk to Interlibrary Loan about ordering a copy. You save money by buying it through our Interlibrary Loan Department. You must come prepared to write a check.

If you do not want your own copy:

• See if Interlibrary Loan can borrow a copy for you.
• Go to Library of Congress and use their copy.
• Visit the library of the school that the author attended and use the archival copy.

Help!I'm still confused.

• You can call Interlibrary Loan at (202) 885-2779