Thesis and Dissertation FAQs
Is a format check required?
Yes, format checks are required for all theses and dissertations.
How do I submit my document for format check?
A PDF of your format check document should be emailed to Melanie Bollnow at mbollno@luc.edu. Graduate school staff will then provide feedback (generally within two weeks, by email) and facilitate your submission of the final document.
When should I submit my format check?
The format check can be submitted prior to the defense. In general, two to three months before the degree conferral is appropriate, and the format check deadline should also be observed. Please note: When scheduling the defense, allow adequate time to make corrections, gather signatures, and compile all parts of the document before the final copy deadline.
How do I submit final copies of my document?
Students submit a final electronic copy to ProQuest using the ETD Administrator system.
What is ProQuest ETD Administrator system?
The ProQuest ETD Administrator system helps manage the electronic submission of dissertations and theses that Loyola University plans to publish. Here, you can delay the release of your work by placing an embargo and also make a decision on the copyright of your work.
When I submit my dissertation/thesis to the ETD Database, is it a final submission?
No, you can submit your dissertation/thesis to the ETD database any time prior to your final format check if you wish. Only your Loyola University administrator can submit your dissertation/thesis after final approval.
What if I do not meet the conferral date deadline?
If you feel you are not going to complete your thesis or dissertation in time for the applied conferral date, you should defer to the next date by applying through LOCUS. There is no additional fee for deferrals.
What is the Survey of Earned Doctorates?
The Survey of Earned Doctorates (SED), sponsored by the National Science Foundation, the National Institutes of Health, the U.S. Department of Education, and the National Endowment for the Humanities, is an annual census of students awarded a research doctorate from an accredited U.S. institution. The survey is being collected under contract by RTI International. Data from the survey are available on the NSF website and in annual reports published online.
If you are submitting a dissertation, you are required to complete this survey as well. This survey must be completed electronically, and a copy of the completion certificate must be forwarded to your format check administrator in the Graduate School office. The survey link will also be included in the materials you receive during your format check.