For doctoral researchers at the University of Reading, it is now a requirement that an electronic copy of your thesis be deposited via an approved, secure method. This page answers some of the questions you may have about this process.
In addition, there is a more detailed training module on Blackboard to help you understand the process better.
What is electronic deposition?
Electronic deposition is one of the final stages of the process of thesis submission for doctoral researchers at Reading. It is a requirement for all current students on relevant PhD programmes.
It involves the deposit of an electronic copy of the final version of your doctoral thesis into the University's digital institutional repository, CentAUR.
Why is this necessary? What are the benefits?
As a researcher, you will know that visibility of research outputs is of high importance to your future career.
By making your thesis available via the secure platform offered by CentAUR, you will significantly increase the chances of your work being seen and it will be a tangible way to increase your recognition and profile with potential collaborators, employers and funding bodies.
It is now the established norm within UK universities that doctoral theses are deposited not just in hard copy, but also electronically, in similar fashion to other research outputs.
There are also a number of benefits for the University and wider research community when high-quality doctoral research outputs are preserved digitally. As a result of electronic deposition, our researchers are able to benefit from access to research outputs from within the University and beyond.
How do I know whether this applies to me or not?
Electronic deposition of theses is required for all doctoral level theses, with the exception of MPhil awards.
What I am I required to do and when?
You will need to submit an electronic version (in a PDF format) of the final version your thesis using the electronic deposition of theses online form. The electronic version will then be uploaded (by University Library staff) to CentAUR.
Electronic deposition process
- Make any necessary corrections to your thesis.
- Ensure you have read and understand the rules for submission of theses (PDF, 0.3 MB).
- Collate the electronic version of your thesis into one PDF document and deposit using the electronic deposition of theses online form no later than the specified deadline.
- With your supervisor, complete the thesis deposit form (0.2 MB), scan your completed thesis deposit form and deposit along with your final version of your thesis using the electronic deposition of theses online form.
How can I obtain an exemption or embargo, if required?
There are times when you may wish to restrict access to your thesis, or cannot make it accessible online for reasons of copyright or other issues. The training module "Creating your electronic thesis" will provide you with the information you need on issues including copyright, and will also help you make a decision on whether you should restrict online access to your electronic thesis.
Further guidance and training on electronic deposition of theses
A compulsory training module ("Creating your electronic thesis") has been developed to help guide you through the process of electronic deposition of theses, including issues such as:
- using other people's content (copyright issues)
- restricting access to your thesis
- referencing and avoiding plagiarism
- the overall process of submission
This module is accessible via BlackBoard. To access the module first log into Blackboard and then, once logged in, follow the link Creating your electronic thesis. If you cannot access the module via this link, please email Joanna John (j.john@reading.ac.uk).