Last updated on 12 May 2026
Theses is a powerful search engine that allows to find all the French doctoral theses supported since 1985. But this rich database does not end there. It offers advanced search functions that can be very useful. It also makes it possible, and above all, to consult the full content of most doctoral theses. That's great.
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Theses. A search engine specialized in doctoral theses
Theses is one of the search engines focused on research and academic publications. Like Bases for open access research papers or ScanR, it offers a wealth of resources, including full access to documents.
The search engine is not limited to published theses. It offers a much more complete overview of this universe by offering a gateway to three main types of data:
- All doctoral theses defended in France, regardless of the material support of the thesis (paper document, digital, commercial edition …)
- All doctoral theses under preparation in France.
- Individuals and organizations related to these theses.
Useful search functions to navigate through thousands of doctoral theses
The use of this public and open database is simple and efficient. A particular effort has been made to ergonomics and ‘user experience’, and this can be seen.
Simply indicate the subject or topic you are looking for in the query field. From this home screen you can refine your search. Three tabs allow you to choose between "All theses", "Theses in preparation" and finally the "Persons" related to the theses. The latter category allows you to search for people involved in French doctoral research (thesis directors, thesis authors and rapporteurs). This may be useful.
Very useful also an advanced search function that will allow you to play with the search syntax for relevant results.
You can also click on this homepage to limit the results to the supported theses that can be accessed online.
Read online doctoral theses
The result of a search is very fast. The list of results is displayed almost instantly. More than 400,000 theses are indexed, a good third can be consulted directly online. Each sheet corresponding to a thesis contains all the useful information including a valuable summary in French and English. You also have access to a button to download the full text (where possible) or an indication of where you can view it.
Each card is also enriched with a list of interactive keywords. With one click, you will be able to consult other theses that share the same keyword or theme.
An excellent resource for students, researchers and beyond for all the curious who show the doctoral wealth of French higher education.
Another resource that may interest you: List of online anti plagiarism tools
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