Accessing University of Calgary Theses

As of September 29, 2012 the electronic submission of theses and dissertations became mandatory at the University of Calgary and these works are available only in electronic format.

The University Archives is responsible for preserving University of Calgary theses and dissertations created prior to the launch of the electronic theses and dissertations program in September 2012.  Many of these original theses have not been digitized and are available only in paper format.  Unbound paper copies of theses may be consulted in the Reading Room during normal opening hours.  Paper theses are stored offsite; please request the title(s) you wish to view at least two business days before you require access.

Searching for Theses

1. Details of all University of Calgary theses and dissertations can be found in Prism, the University of Calgary’s institutional repository.  Theses not available in electronic format can be accessed in paper format in the University Archives.
2. Bound paper copies of some theses created prior to September 2012 and microfiche copies of most theses created prior to September 2012 are available in the University Library’s collection.  The Library search contains details of available titles and formats, and will indicate whether the available items circulate.
3. Many theses written after 1997 are available in digital format from Theses Canada and from ProQuest (select Source Type — Dissertations and Theses).

NOTE:  Theses are not made available to the public until the author has graduated: new titles will be added to the collection shortly after each convocation. In some cases a withhold period (embargo) may delay the date a thesis becomes available to the public. The description of the thesis in Prism will indicate when the withhold period will expire.

Obtaining Copies

Researchers can request a copy of undigitized theses by submitting a request to digitize@ucalgary.ca

Copies of theses and dissertations are made available to researchers on the understanding that they are to be used solely for the purposes of research or private study.  Any use of the copy for a purpose other than research or private study may require authorization of the copyright holder of the work in question.  Duplication, by any means, of the copy provided is restricted under the Copyright Act.

Researchers can also purchase copies of University of Calgary theses listed in the ProQuest databases listed above from ProQuest as indicated on their website.