Theses and Dissertations
Theses (or dissertations) are formal papers based on original research, usually associated with Higher Degree studies. Generally they are unpublished works (though many are later published in book form).
Masters and PhD Theses completed at the University of Melbourne are held in the Special Collections section of the Baillieu Library. They are on closed access, and can be read in the Special Collections Reading Room on the 3rd Floor.
The library also holds copies of theses which have been purchased, often because they are of relevance to the research area of a staff member of postgraduate student. E.g. a microfilm copy of Linda Khadavi's thesis on twentieth-century harpsichord music is held in the Music Branch Library.
As an undergraduate student you will only be expected to consult theses held in the University Library. However, a survey of the dissertations in progress or recently completed in a particular field of study can give you a good idea of the level and direction of current research interest.